Edward Waldegrave facts for kids

Sir Edward Waldegrave (born around 1516, died 1 September 1561) was an English nobleman who worked for the royal family. He was also a Catholic who refused to attend the official Church of England services, which was against the law at the time.

Who Was Sir Edward Waldegrave?

Sir Edward Waldegrave was an important figure in the English royal court during the reigns of King Edward VI, Queen Mary I, and Queen Elizabeth I. He was known for his loyalty to the Catholic faith, which led to challenges and imprisonment during his life.

Early Life and Family

Edward Waldegrave was the oldest son of John Waldegrave. His mother was Lora Rochester, whose brother was Sir Robert Rochester. Edward's family had a long history, and he was the grandson of Sir Edward Waldegrave of Bures, Suffolk. He was also a descendant of Sir Richard Waldegrave, who was a Speaker of the House of Commons, a very important position in Parliament.

Working for Princess Mary

In 1547, Edward Waldegrave began working for Princess Mary, who would later become Queen Mary I. He was given control of a large estate called the manor of West Haddon in Northamptonshire. He also bought another large estate, the manor of Borley in Essex, and made it his home.

Challenges Under King Edward VI

In 1551, King Edward VI ruled England. The King's advisors, known as the Privy Council, banned Princess Mary from holding Catholic church services (called mass) in her home. Edward Waldegrave, along with Sir Robert Rochester and Francis Englefield, refused to enforce this ban. Because of their loyalty to Princess Mary and their Catholic faith, they were sent to the Tower of London and imprisoned.

Life Under Queen Mary I

After about a year, Edward Waldegrave was set free. When Princess Mary became Queen Mary I in 1553, his life changed greatly.

• He was made a knight, which meant he received the title "Sir."
• He joined the Queen's Privy Council, becoming one of her closest advisors.
• He was given more large estates, including the manors of Navestock in Essex and Chewton in Somerset.
• He was appointed the Master of the Great Wardrobe. This important job meant he was in charge of the Queen's royal clothes, jewels, and other valuable items.

Sir Edward Waldegrave was also elected to the Parliament of England several times. He represented Wiltshire in 1553, and Somerset twice in 1554. In 1554, he also became the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, another high-ranking government position. He was also given the manor of Cobham, Kent.

Challenges Under Queen Elizabeth I

Queen Mary I died in 1558, and Queen Elizabeth I took the throne. Queen Elizabeth I was a Protestant, and she brought back the Church of England. Because Sir Edward Waldegrave continued to allow Catholic mass to be celebrated in his home, he was dismissed from all his government jobs. He was then sent back to the Tower of London. He died there in 1561.

Sir Edward Waldegrave had also managed the financial accounts for the funeral of King Edward VI. He had a budget of £1300 and received many rich fabrics from the queen's supplies for the funeral arrangements.

Family Life

Edward Waldegrave married Frances Neville. She was the daughter of Sir Edward Neville. Together, Edward and Frances had five children. His grandson was also named Sir Edward Waldegrave, 1st Baronet.