Richard Hill
Sir Richard Hill (1732–1808) was a prominent figure in 18th-century England, known for his roles as a religious controversialist, a supporter of the Calvinistic Methodists, and a politician. Born on 6 June 1732 at Hawkstone, near Shrewsbury, he was the eldest son of Sir Rowland Hill, a baronet created in 1727. His education spanned from Westminster School to Magdalen College, Oxford, where he was created M.A. on 2 July 1754. In 1794 it was this Richard who acquired the Manor of Prees and with it Lighteach by exchanging land at Meriden near Coventry with the bishop.
Hill's early career saw him travelling across the continent with the Earl of Elgin, after which he returned to England and became a vocal champion of George Whitefield and the Calvinistic Methodists. His involvement in religious controversies, especially defending Calvinistic Methodism against its critics, marked much of his early public life. Notably, in 1768, when six undergraduates were expelled from St. Edmund Hall, Oxford, for adopting Methodism, Hill vehemently attacked the university authorities through publications, showcasing his commitment to religious freedom and expression.
His parliamentary career began towards the end of 1780 when he was elected unopposed to represent Shropshire. Hill was an eloquent and witty speaker, often incorporating scriptural references into his speeches, which earned him both admiration and ridicule. He succeeded to his father's baronetcy and estates in 1783, after his father's death.
Throughout his life, Hill was engaged in various religious debates, notably attacking Archdeacon Charles Daubeny's 'Guide to the Church' and defending evangelical preaching against criticisms from Bishop Tomline of Lincoln. He was a staunch supporter of the British and Foreign Bible Society, though his health prevented him from being an active champion in his later years.
Sir Richard Hill died on 28 November 1808 and was buried in the 'Sepulchre of the Hills' at the parish church of Hodnet, Shropshire. Unmarried, he was succeeded by his younger brother John. Richard was remembered by his peers for his simplicity, kindness, and devoutness, with Kenyon, one of his contemporaries, remarking him as one of the best men he knew.
His legacy includes a series of religious pamphlets and writings, with 'A Present for your Poor Neighbour' and 'The Deep Things of God' being among his most popular and frequently reprinted works. His life and contributions reflect the complexity of religious and political life in 18th-century Britain, highlighting his role as a defender of evangelical Christianity and an advocate for moral and religious integrity in public life​​​​.
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