Christopher Barker (officer of arms) facts for kids
Sir Christopher Barker (died January 4, 1550) was an important official at the College of Arms in London. This college is where experts in heraldry (the study of coats of arms and family symbols) work. Christopher Barker rose to the highest position there, becoming the Garter Principal King of Arms.
Early Life
Christopher Barker was born in Stokesley, North Yorkshire. His father was William Barker, and his mother was Joan. Joan's brother, Sir Christopher Carhill, was also a high-ranking herald. As an adult, Christopher Barker lived in Newbury in Berkshire.
A Career in Heraldry
Christopher Barker began his work with heraldry as a special officer for Charles Brandon, a powerful duke. In 1513, he became a "pursuivant" called Lisle pursuivant. A pursuivant is a junior officer of arms. Then, in 1517, he became a "herald" called Suffolk Herald. Heralds are more senior officers.
He traveled to France with the Duke in 1514 and 1515. In 1522, he became a royal officer of arms, known as Richmond herald. This meant he now worked for the King.
Barker was promoted quickly. In June 1536, he became Norroy King of Arms. This role was in charge of heraldry in the northern parts of England. Just a month later, on July 15, he reached the top position: Garter Principal King of Arms. This was the most important heraldic job in England.
As Garter King of Arms, Sir Christopher Barker helped organize many important royal events. These included the christening (baptism) of Prince Edward in 1537. He also helped with the funeral of Queen Jane Seymour in the same year. In 1541, he was part of the ceremony when King Henry VIII was declared King of Ireland. Later, in 1547, he played a key role in King Henry's funeral and Prince Edward's coronation as King Edward VI.
When King Henry VIII led an army into France in 1544, Barker was right in front of the King's banner. This showed his important position.
Personal Life
Sir Christopher Barker was married three times. His first wife was Margaret. His second wife was Ellen, and they had two sons. Sadly, both sons died before him. One son, Justinian, died in Spain in 1543 while working as a junior herald. Barker's nephew, Laurence Dalton, also became a herald. Barker's third wife was Edith.
In 1521, he joined the Vintners' Company, which was a group for wine merchants. He was even the leader of this company from 1540 to 1543. Sir Christopher Barker became ill in late 1549. He died in London on January 4, 1550. He was buried in a church called St Faith's under St Paul's. His wife, Edith, died about six months after him. Many of the heraldic papers and books he collected are still kept at the College of Arms today.
Arms
A coat of arms is a special design or symbol that represents a person, family, or organization. It's like a unique badge. Sir Christopher Barker had his own coat of arms, which is shown below.
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See also
