Eustace I, Count of Boulogne facts for kids
Eustace I was an important nobleman from a region called Francia, which is now part of France. He was known as the Count of Boulogne, a title he held from 1042 until he died.
Becoming a Count
Eustace I was the oldest son of Count Baldwin II of Boulogne and Adelina of Holland. He became the Count of Boulogne in 1042. He was also the Count of Lens, another important area.
His family, the Counts of Boulogne, had become quite independent from the powerful Counts of Flanders. Eustace's grandfather, Arnulf III, Count of Boulogne, had managed to break free from their control. Both Eustace's father and Eustace himself kept this independence.
Working with Others
Later, Eustace I worked closely with Baldwin V, Count of Flanders. They cooperated on several projects. Eustace also signed important documents from Baldwin V that helped limit the power of certain noblemen who managed church lands. These noblemen were called "advocates."
Eustace I also formed a strong alliance with the House of Normandy. This was through the marriage of his son, Eustace II, to Goda, who was the niece of Richard II, Duke of Normandy. This alliance helped the Counts of Boulogne become very important in Northern France.
Eustace I was also a supporter of Samer Abbey, a religious center near Calais. It is believed he was buried there after his death in 1049. In 1028, Eustace I also approved the creation of a group of religious leaders, called canons, at his castle in Lens.
Family
Eustace I was married to Matilda of Leuven. She was the daughter of Lambert I, Count of Leuven. They had several children:
- Eustace II, who became Count after him.
- Godfrey, who became the Bishop of Paris.
- Lambert II, who became the Count of Lens.
- Gerberga, who married Frederick, Duke of Lower Lorraine.
