Eleanor Johns facts for kids
Eleanor Johns (sometimes called Jones) was a lady-in-waiting from Wales. She served two important royal women: Queen Elizabeth of York and then her daughter, Margaret Tudor. Being a courtier meant she lived and worked closely with the royal family, helping them with daily tasks and attending them at court events.
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Eleanor Johns: A Royal Courtier
Early Life and Family Connections
Eleanor Johns was likely from Wales. Her father might have been Richard Johnes. He was an important person who worked for King Henry VII of England. Richard Johnes helped the King in his private rooms and also managed royal lands and castles in Wales, like Llantrisant Castle and Barry Island. This suggests Eleanor came from a family connected to the royal court.
Serving Queen Elizabeth of York
Eleanor Johns began her service with Elizabeth of York, who was the Queen of England and wife of King Henry VII. In 1503, Eleanor earned a good salary of £6, 13 shillings, and 4 pence for six months of work. This shows she was a valued member of the Queen's household. She also traveled with the Queen. For example, in August 1502, she went with Queen Elizabeth to Raglan Castle in Wales.
Journey to Scotland with Margaret Tudor
Queen Elizabeth of York passed away in 1503. After her death, many of her staff, including Eleanor Johns, moved to serve her daughter, Margaret Tudor. Margaret was preparing for a very important event: her marriage to James IV of Scotland. This marriage was arranged to create peace between England and Scotland.
Margaret Tudor's marriage agreement allowed her to bring 24 English attendants with her to Scotland. King James IV promised to pay these attendants well. Eleanor Johns was one of these chosen ladies who traveled north with the new Scottish Queen. Another lady who went with them was Eleanor Verney.
Life in the Scottish Court
In Scotland, Eleanor Johns was often called "Mistress Eleanor." She continued to receive the same salary as she did in England, showing her importance in the Scottish court. She was part of a group of "Inglis Ladyis" (English Ladies) who served Queen Margaret. This group included her friend Eleanor Verney and also Elizabeth Berlay.
Life at court involved many special occasions. As a New Year's Day gift in January 1507, Eleanor received a valuable gold chain. This was a common way for monarchs to show appreciation to their loyal staff.
A Mystery at Whithorn Priory
There is a record from June 26, 1504, that King James IV paid a priest at Whithorn Priory to say a special Mass for "Mastres Helenor." Historians believe this "Mastres Helenor" was likely either Eleanor Johns or Eleanor Verney. It shows that the King cared for the well-being of his wife's English ladies.
