Eormenred of Kent facts for kids

Eormenred was a royal family member in the ancient Kingdom of Kent. He lived a long time ago, before the year 664. Some old writings describe him as a king. Historians believe he likely existed, even though there isn't much proof from his own time.

Eormenred: A Royal Figure in Kent

Eormenred's story comes from later historical accounts. These stories are called hagiographies, which are writings about saints. Scholars think Eormenred was a real person. He was part of the royal family of Kent.

His Family Life

Eormenred was the son of King Eadbald. King Eadbald ruled Kent from 616 to 640. Eormenred's mother was Emma. She might have been a princess from a place called Francia.

Eormenred's name, "Eormenred," has Frankish origins. His brother, Eorcenberht, also had a Frankish name. Before his father died, Eormenred married a woman named Oslava. They had at least four children together. Their children included two sons, Æthelred and Æthelberht, and two daughters, Domne Eafe and Eormengyth. Another daughter, Eormenburh, might have been the same person as Domne Eafe.

A Possible King?

After King Eadbald passed away, Eormenred's brother, Eorcenberht, became king. Some old texts say Eormenred was also a king. This might mean he ruled Kent alongside his brother. Or, he might have been given the title of "king" while still being under his brother's rule.

His Children's Story

Eormenred died before his brother, Eorcenberht. He is said to have left his two sons, Æthelred and Æthelberht, in Eorcenberht's care. However, after Eorcenberht died, his son Ecgberht became king.

King Ecgberht worried that Eormenred's sons might try to take his throne. Sadly, he arranged for them to be killed. Later, these two brothers were honored as saints.

Eormenred's daughter, Domne Eafe, was not harmed. King Ecgberht later gave her land on Thanet for a monastery. This was a way for him to show regret for his actions. The land given to Domne Eafe had once belonged to her father, Eormenred.