George Delves facts for kids
Sir George Delves was a brave knight and military leader who lived during the time of Queen Elizabeth I. He was born around 1545 and was still alive in 1602. He was also part of a special group called the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms, who were like personal bodyguards for the Queen.
A Knight's Life
Serving the Queen
In May 1571, George Delves took part in a tournament held for Queen Elizabeth I. He was one of the knights defending against challengers. One famous challenger was the Earl of Oxford. Delves wrote a letter saying how skilled the Earl of Oxford was.
In 1578, Delves and Sir William Fitzwilliam were given an important job. They were to collect special taxes on new types of cloth being moved around. This was a job that could make them a lot of money. They held this position for many years, even though others did the daily work.
Family Life
George Delves first married Christian. She was the daughter of Sir William FitzWilliam from Northamptonshire. Christian was also the widow of Sir Richard Wingfield. This meant George became the stepfather to her sons, Richard and John Wingfield. Richard later became the first Viscount Powerscourt.
Later, on March 8, 1582 or 1583, Delves married Anne Esley, or Isley. She was from Westminster. Anne brought an estate in Bredgar, Kent to their marriage.
Becoming a Knight
George Delves was made a knight on April 4, 1591. This honor was given to him by FitzWilliam, who was the Queen's representative in Ireland.
In 1602, Sir George Delves worked as a justice. He helped oversee the local court meetings, called Quarter Sessions, in Maidstone, Kent.
Family Symbol
The Delves family had a special family symbol. It showed a silver shield with a red chevron. This chevron had gold criss-cross patterns on it. There were also three black shapes below the chevron.
