Edward Stafford, 3rd Baron Stafford facts for kids

Edward Stafford, 3rd Baron Stafford (born 7 January 1535 – died 18 October 1603) was an important English nobleman. He was the second son of Henry Stafford, 1st Baron Stafford and Ursula Pole. Edward became the 3rd Baron Stafford in 1566 after his older brother, Henry, passed away. He also served in the English Parliament, helping to make laws for the country.

Life in Public Service

Edward Stafford was chosen to represent the town of Banbury in Parliament in 1554. Later, he also represented his family's home area of Stafford in 1558 and 1559.

After his brother Thomas was involved in a rebellion, Edward was questioned by the Privy Council in 1557. The Privy Council was a group of important advisors to the monarch. However, they found that Edward was not involved in his brother's actions.

Once he became a Baron, Edward was called to join the House of Lords. This is the part of Parliament where noble people discuss and approve new laws. He served there from 1573 to 1593.

Edward also had a disagreement over the ownership of Caus Castle. He believed the castle belonged to him, but he was asked to leave it by force in 1591.

Supporting the Arts

From about 1574, Edward Stafford was a patron of a group of actors called "Lord Stafford's Company of Players." Being a patron meant he supported them financially. This acting group traveled around England, performing plays for people. They were first seen performing in Barnstaple.

The players often appeared in public records for over twenty-six years. In 1577, when they were performing in Southampton, the group had at least ten actors. This acting company continued performing until at least 1617, even after Edward's death, under the support of his son, the 4th Baron.

Edward Stafford also supported other entertainers. He had a group of "bearwards," who were people who looked after trained bears. These bearwards sometimes performed alongside the actors in 1579. He also supported a company of trumpeters, who played music.

Family Life

Edward Stafford was the second son of Henry Stafford, 1st Baron Stafford and Ursula Pole. He became the 3rd Baron Stafford when his older brother, Henry, died in 1566.

His family had a very old and important history. Edward was a descendant of the Plantagenets, who were a royal family that ruled England for many years. This means he was related to kings like Edward III and Edward IV.

Edward married Mary Stanley on 23 November 1566. Mary was the daughter of Edward Stanley, 3rd Earl of Derby. Edward and Mary had three children together:

• Edward Stafford (1572–1625): He later became the 4th Baron Stafford.
• Ursula Stafford: She married Walter Erdeswick.
• Dorothy Stafford (born around 1572): She married Gervais of Chadsden.

When Edward Stafford passed away in 1603, his son Edward took over his title and became the 4th Baron Stafford.