"Hugh Thomas, Professor of Sacred Theology, Deacon of Ely and Master of this College died 11th July 1780 in his 75th year.
Hugh Thomas was admitted sizar in 1724. BA 1727/8; MA 1731; DD1753; elected Fellow 1730/1; ordained deacon of Ely 1730. He resigned his fellowship in 1749 after a full year as archdeacon of Nottingham. 1750 he became Chancellor of York and various other appointments. When Dr Rooke died suddenly in 1753 Thomas was recalled to Cambridge to be Master of the College which he held for 26 years until his death in the Lodge in 1780. He was buried privately in the centre of the antechapel, in the evening, six Fellows bearing the pall. He was esteemed a very worthy man. In Peile's biography he notes " He certainly did not encourage reform in the College: but acquiesced in it when urged by the young fellows, William Paley and John Law". [PBR pp208]
