Since the reign of Richard II, rectors of Great Berkhamsted have been presented to the bishop by the monarch. In 1722, there is a change in the duty of patronage when the heir to the throne, Prince George, Duke of Cornwall (the future George II), presents Rev John Cowper as Rector. This reflects Berkhamsted’s ancient links with the Duchy of Cornwall, and until the 1860s, all Great Berkhamsted rectors are presented by the Duke of Cornwall.
