In the same measure as Henry VIII. has long been the reputed founder of Christ Church, Oxford, so Elizabeth founded Jesus College. Hugh Price was her Wolsey. Activity in founding colleges seems to have culminated in the effort of the great cardinal. Just before its close the reign of Elizabeth was signalised by the founding of many educational institutions throughout the country, and in Oxford by the appearance of Jesus College.

The Tudors were proud of their Welsh origin, and Welshmen were not slow to appeal to their pride for tangible benefits to the Principality. It was, doubtless, with a wish to establish a home for his countrymen in Oxford that Hugh Price, or Ap Rice, doctor of laws, treasurer of St David's, and fellow of All Souls', petitioned Queen Elizabeth to grant the site of White Hall for the building of a new college. This hall had absorbed into itself several smaller halls which stood around it. Whether it was reserved entirely for Welsh students is a point which cannot be ascertained, but there is reason to think that it was intended almost entirely for the benefit of Wales. The first letters, patent was, granted on June 27, 1571. They provide for the constitution of a college to consist of a principal, eight fellows, and eight scholars.
During his enforced absence two principals ruled the college, Michael Roberts and Francis Howell. The former of these was accused of impoverishing the college by embezzling its scanty funds, much money and all the silver-plate were sacrificed in a vain attempt to save the Royal cause. Dr. Mansell was restored to the headship in 1660, but, owing to the “decayes of Age, especially dimness of Sight," he resolved to resign once more.

The choice of a successor fell upon Leoline Jenkins, who may be regarded as the second founder of the college. He was born in 1625 in Glamorgan, and was educated at Cowbridge School, which he afterwards endowed. He entered Jesus College in 1641, and when the Restoration took place returned to residence, and, as stated, was elected principal. He held the post for thirteen years and busied himself in adding to the buildings.

During his enforced absence two principals ruled the college, Michael Roberts and Francis Howell. The former of these was accused of impoverishing the college by embezzling its scanty funds, much money and all the silver-plate were sacrificed in a vain attempt to save the Royal cause. Dr. Mansell was restored to the headship in 1660, but, owing to the “decayes of Age, especially dimness of Sight," he resolved to resign once more.

The choice of a successor fell upon Leoline Jenkins, who may be regarded as the second founder of the college. He was born in 1625 in Glamorgan, and was educated at Cowbridge School, which he afterwards endowed. He entered Jesus College in 1641, and when the Restoration took place returned to residence, and, as stated, was elected principal. He held the post for thirteen years and busied himself in adding to the buildings.