12 Facts About Robert Billing

Robert Claudius Billing was an Anglican bishop who served as Bishop of Bedford from 1888 to 1898.

Robert Billing's mother was Ann Green, originally from Nottingham, and his father was Rev Robert Billing, perpetual curate of Wye from 1846 to 1854, and recorded in the 1851 census as Perpetual Curate and Master of the Wye Grammar School.

Robert Billing was educated at Worcester College, Oxford, matriculating on 25 October 1853 aged 19, graduating and being ordained in 1857.

Robert Billing began his career with a curacy at St Peter's, Colchester between 1857 and 1860, and then in Compton Bishop, Somerset from 1861 This was followed by a period as Secretary of the Church Missionary Society.

Robert Billing continued to act as an honorary assistant secretary for the Church Missionary Society, editing their publication Missionary Leaves.

Robert Billing held the role of Chaplain of the Manor of Worlaby near Brigg, Lincolnshire, in 1870, before moving to London in 1873.

Robert Billing took a long period of rest but was compelled in 1895 to resign his bishopric while retaining his old position of Rector of St Andrew Undershaft in the city in the east end of London few men were better known or more highly popular.

Robert Billing supported the volunteer movement, and was chaplain of the 2nd Tower Hamlets Volunteers during his time in London.

Robert Billing married Harriet Fowler Price, daughter of George Price of Langford, Somerset on 1 January 1862 at Churchill, Somerset.

Claudine Margaret, Robert Billing Percy, Herbert Lindsey and Arthur Hans were all born during the family's time in Louth, Lincolnshire.

Robert Billing died at his home in Englefield Green, in post in 1898, having ceased active work in 1895 due to ill health.

Robert Billing's duties were taken on by the Bishop of Stepney.