Charles Blount (soldier) facts for kids

Sir Charles Blount (born 1568 – died 1600) was an English soldier during the Tudor times. He was known for his military service.

Early Life and Family

Charles Blount was the son of Sir Michael Blount and Mary Moore. His family lived at Mapledurham House in Oxfordshire.

On December 26, 1593, Charles and his cousin, Lord Mountjoy, became Freemen of Portsmouth. This meant they were given special rights and privileges in the town. Lord Mountjoy was already a military leader in Portsmouth.

A Soldier's Adventures

Lord Mountjoy was related to Robert Devereux, 2nd Earl of Essex, a powerful nobleman. This connection helped Charles Blount gain the Earl of Essex's support and friendship.

In June 1596, Charles joined the Earl of Essex on a successful military trip to capture the city of Cádiz in Spain. After this victory, Charles was made a knight. The Earl of Essex knighted many soldiers on his ship before they returned to England. So many, in fact, that Queen Elizabeth I was not pleased!

In 1599, Charles went to Ireland with the Earl of Essex. There, he became the "Coronell Governor" (which means a military leader) of Cahir Castle in Tipperary.

His Final Years

Sir Charles Blount passed away in 1600 while traveling back to England. He was buried in St Thomas's Church in Portsmouth. This church is now known as Portsmouth Cathedral. You can still see his memorial there today.