Blanche of Lancaster, Baroness Wake of Liddell facts for kids

Blanche of Lancaster, Baroness Wake of Liddell (c. 1305 – c. 1380) was an important English noblewoman. She was the oldest daughter of Henry, 3rd Earl of Lancaster and Maud Chaworth. Blanche got her name from her grandmother, Blanche of Artois. Her grandmother had been a powerful ruler, acting as regent for the Kingdom of Navarre.

Who Was Blanche of Lancaster?

Blanche of Lancaster was born around 1305. She belonged to a very important family in England. Her father, Henry, was the Earl of Lancaster. This meant he was a high-ranking noble. Being a noblewoman like Blanche meant she had a special place in society.

Her Family Connections

Blanche's family was well-connected to the royal family. Her father was a grandson of King Henry III. This made Blanche a great-granddaughter of a king! Her grandmother, Blanche of Artois, was also a queen. She ruled Navarre for a time while her son was too young.

Life and Times

Blanche lived during a time of change in England. She saw the reigns of several kings. These included Edward III and his grandson, Richard II.

Her Marriage

Before October 9, 1316, Blanche married Thomas Wake, 2nd Baron Wake of Liddell. Thomas was under the care of Blanche's father before their marriage. This was a common practice for young nobles. Blanche and Thomas did not have any children together.

A Dispute with a Bishop

After her husband Thomas died in 1349, Blanche had a serious problem. A powerful church leader, the Bishop of Ely, caused damage to some of her homes. Blanche decided to take him to court.

King Edward III supported Blanche. He told the bishop off for his actions. The King ordered the bishop to pay Blanche for the damage. Later, the bishop caused harm to one of Blanche's servants. King Edward III then took away some of the bishop's property. He also made the bishop ask Blanche for her forgiveness.

Later Life and Legacy

Blanche continued to be an active and respected noblewoman. When her brother, Henry, passed away, Blanche helped manage his will. This showed her importance and trust within her family.

In 1372, Blanche was given the care of two young noble brothers. These were John and Thomas. She was their great-aunt. This role showed her responsibility and influence. Blanche lived to see the start of King Richard II's rule. She passed away around 1380. She was buried at Greyfriars, Stamford.