Durand of Gloucester facts for kids
Durand of Gloucester was an important person in England around the year 1086. He served as the Sheriff of Gloucestershire, which was like being the main law enforcement officer and manager for the king in that area. Durand was also one of King William the Conqueror's most important landholders, known as a tenant-in-chief. He owned 63 different pieces of land across England, which were all listed in the Domesday Book of 1086.
Contents
Who Was Durand of Gloucester?
Durand of Gloucester was a powerful figure during the time of William the Conqueror. He was responsible for keeping order and collecting taxes for the king in Gloucestershire. Being a "tenant-in-chief" meant he held his lands directly from the king, making him a very important noble.
Durand's Family and Legacy
Durand became important after his brother, Roger de Pitres, who was also Sheriff of Gloucestershire, passed away before 1083. When Durand himself died around 1096, his nephew, Walter of Gloucester, took over his important roles. Walter became the hereditary Sheriff of Gloucestershire, meaning the title was passed down in the family. He also managed Gloucester Castle.
Miles of Gloucester: A Powerful Successor
Walter's son, Miles of Gloucester, 1st Earl of Hereford, became even more powerful. He inherited many lands and titles, including the role of Sheriff of Gloucestershire. Miles also gained more land through his marriage to Sibyl de Neufmarché. The lands that Durand of Gloucester originally held formed the core of this family's wealth and power for many years.
Where Durand Was Buried
Both Durand and his brother Roger de Pitres were buried in Gloucester Abbey (now known as Gloucester Cathedral) in the city of Gloucester.
Images for kids
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13 Gloucestershire holdings of Durand vicecom(es) ("Durand the Sheriff") listed in the Domesday Book of 1086
