Anne Neville, Duchess of Buckingham facts for kids

Anne Neville (born around 1408 – died 20 September 1480) was an important English noblewoman. She owned a lot of land and books during the 1400s. Her first husband was Humphrey Stafford, 1st Duke of Buckingham.

Anne Neville's Family Life

Anne Neville was born around 1408. Her father was Ralph Neville, 1st Earl of Westmorland. Her mother was Lady Joan Beaufort. Lady Joan was the daughter of John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster.

First Marriage and Lands

Before October 1424, Anne married Humphrey Stafford, 1st Duke of Buckingham. He was one of the richest men in England. Through this marriage, Anne became a very important landholder. She was good at managing her family's estates and money. The income from her lands grew a lot under her care.

Widowhood and Second Marriage

In 1460, Anne became a widow. Her husband, Humphrey, was killed at the Battle of Northampton. She did not marry again until 1467. Her second husband was Walter Blount, 1st Baron Mountjoy. He died in 1474.

As the Dowager Duchess of Buckingham, Anne had an important role. She helped Queen consort Elizabeth Woodville at her coronation. This event happened on May 26, 1465.

Anne Neville's Love for Books

Like many noblewomen of her time, Anne was well-educated. She loved collecting books. She owned a special prayer book called the Wingfield Hours. This book even had a prayer that said Anne was its owner.

Books in Her Will

When Anne made her will, she listed many books. These books were in both English and French. She passed them on to her daughter-in-law, Margaret Beaufort, Countess of Stafford. Anne and Margaret often shared books. They exchanged books during the 1460s when Margaret lived near Anne in Surrey.