William Le Neve 1592-1661
From Book Owners Online
Sir William LE NEVE 1592-1661
Biographical Note
Born at Aslacton, Norfolk, son of William Neve. He developed an interest in heraldry and antiquities, and became Mowbray Herald in 1624; he became herald of York in 1625, Norroy King of Arms in 1634 (and was knighted), and Clarenceux King of Arms in 1635. He was involved in supporting the King during the Civil War and was ejected from his post in 1648; little is known of his movements thereafter, and he was judged insane in 1658.
Books
Le Neve acquired many of the books of the herald Sir William Dethick (1543-1612). His library was sold after his death to Sir Edward Walker, Garter King of Arms, who left it to the College of Arms.
Sources
- Wright, C. E. Fontes Harleianae. London, 1972.
- Wright, Stephen. "Le Neve, Sir William (bap. 1592, d. 1661), herald and genealogist." Oxford Dictionary of National Biography.