William Walsham How was a prominent nineteenth-century English Anglican bishop whose career was defined by decades of dedicated pastoral service and ecclesiastical leadership. Born in 1823 to a solicitor in Shrewsbury, How pursued his education at Shrewsbury School before attending Wadham College, Oxford, and subsequently University College, Durham. He was ordained into the ministry in 1846, beginning his clerical career as a curate in Kidderminster.
Following his ordination, How spent more than thirty years actively engaged in parish work within Shropshire. In 1848, he became a curate at the Abbey Church in Shrewsbury, followed by his appointment as Rector of Whittington in 1851. His administrative and pastoral capabilities led to his appointment as the Rural Dean of Oswestry in 1860, reflecting his growing influence and dedication to his local communities.
In the later stages of his career, How transitioned into significant episcopal roles. He served as the Suffragan Bishop of Bedford, where he oversaw church work in East London, and later became the Bishop of Wakefield. Throughout his life, How remained a committed and influential figure within the Church of England until his death in 1897.
