Balthasar Guersye facts for kids

Balthasar Guersye was an Italian doctor who became very important at the court of Henry VIII, the King of England. He was known for being a physician and surgeon to both King Henry VIII and his first wife, Catherine of Aragon.

Who Was Balthasar Guersye?

Balthasar Guersye was a skilled doctor from Italy. His name was spelled in many ways, like Guersie, Guarcy, and Gwercye. He became a trusted physician and surgeon to the English royal family during the 1500s.

Early Life and Royal Service

Guersye was born in Italy. He moved to England and began working for the royal family. He served as a physician and surgeon to both Queen Catherine of Aragon and King Henry VIII. In 1519, a surgeon named Thomas Roos was told not to bother Guersye, showing that Guersye was protected by the King's court.

In 1521, Guersye became a naturalized citizen of England. This meant he gained the rights of an English subject, even though he was born in Italy. Around 1530, he earned a degree in medicine from Cambridge University.

Working for the King

King Henry VIII valued Guersye's services. In 1532, the King rewarded him with a grant of lands. This was a way for the King to thank important people by giving them ownership of property.

In 1534, Guersye received permission to travel back to Italy. He was allowed to take three servants, five horses, and twenty gold coins with him. He continued to serve as a surgeon to Henry VIII. Later, in 1543, he was involved in some court matters concerning Archbishop Cranmer.

Later Life and Legacy

In 1546, Guersye received a special medical degree from Cambridge University. Even after King Henry VIII, he continued to be a notable figure. In 1556, he became a special member, or "fellow," of the College of Physicians, a respected group of doctors.

Balthasar Guersye lived for a long time in the St. Helen's area of Bishopsgate, London. He passed away on January 7, 1557, and was buried there on January 10. In his will, he mentioned that he was "aged and weak of body." He left money to be shared among the poor people of Tadmarton, Oxfordshire, and St. Helen's, Bishopsgate.

He had two sons, Benedick and Richard, and two daughters, Frances and Mary. His wife had passed away before him.