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Venn: Adm. at Corpus Christi in 1570. S. of Anthony, of Toulthorpe, Rutland. B.A. 1572-3. Claimed as the earliest 'separatist' in England, and the founder of Congregationalism. From an early time he was an incessant and lawless preacher in Cambs. and Norfolk. In 1581 went
to Middleburg in Holland. Left for Scotland in 1583. Imprisoned in England, 1584. From 1586 to 1591 Master of Stamford School. Ord. deacon and priest (Peterb.) Sept. 30, 1591. R. of Achurch, Northants., 1591-1631: presented by Lord Burghley, his constant supporter. In 1631 he was in trouble by striking a constable, for which he was imprisoned in Northampton gaol. Buried at St Giles', Northampton, Oct 8, 1633. He married Alice Allen, of Yorks. Will (P.C.C.) 1634; 'null and void,' 1637. (J. Ch. Smith; D.N.B.)