Christopher Morris (Master of the Ordnance) facts for kids

Sir Christopher Morris (around 1490 – 3 September 1544) was an important English soldier. He also managed military supplies and weapons. He served during the time of King Henry VIII. From 1537 until his death, he held the title of Master of the Ordnance. This meant he was in charge of all the king's cannons, guns, and other military equipment.

A Soldier's Life

Christopher Morris was likely born around 1490. His military career began in 1513. He became a gunner at the Tower of London. A gunner was someone who operated cannons and other firearms.

In 1514, his job at the Tower was confirmed. He later served in France, including at a place called Tournai. In 1522, he was on a ship that escorted Emperor Charles V. During this trip, Morris showed his skill. His team captured a French town called Morlaix. He used a special shot from a cannon to open the town's gate.

In 1523, Morris was a lead gunner near Calais. He also fought in a battle near Treport. His group burned seven enemy ships. They also captured 27 cannons. By 1524, he was in charge of cannons at Valenciennes. He was also named "overseer of ordnance." This meant he supervised military equipment.

Diplomat and Inspector

Christopher Morris also did diplomatic work. This means he acted as a messenger or representative for the king. In 1526, he carried important letters to English officials. He also became the chief gunner of the Tower of London.

He served in Ireland and at Calais in 1530. He also inspected mines in Wales. In 1532, he checked the defenses of Calais and Guisnes. He also inspected the fortifications (defensive walls) at Carlisle.

In 1535, Morris went on a special trip. He traveled to places like Hamburg and Denmark. His mission was to find skilled gunners and engineers. These experts would then work for the English king.

Master of the Ordnance

On 8 February 1537, Christopher Morris got a very important job. He became the Master of the Ordnance. This made him responsible for all the king's weapons. He earned a good salary for this role.

Later that year, he helped put down a rebellion. This event was known as the Pilgrimage of Grace. He was then sent to Carlisle again. He checked the city's defenses, which needed improvements. He was also named master gunner of England.

In 1539, he was made a knight. This meant he was given the title "Sir." In 1542, he oversaw cannons for a war in Scotland. Some of the cannons didn't work well, but he continued his work.

In 1543-1544, he joined another trip to Scotland. His army landed near Leith and captured it. Morris then went with the army to Edinburgh. There, he used a large cannon called a culverin. He used it to blow open a city gate. He also tried to bombard the castle, but it was too strong.

Death

In the autumn of 1544, Sir Christopher Morris was in Boulogne, France. He was leading the cannon attacks there. On 3 September, he was badly wounded. Sadly, he died from his injuries.

He was buried in St Peter's Church in London.