George Grey, 2nd Earl of Kent facts for kids
George Grey, 2nd Earl of Kent (born 1454 – died 25 December 1505), was an important English nobleman. He was the son of Edmund Grey, 1st Earl of Kent and Lady Katherine Percy. George Grey held the title of Earl of Kent from 1490 until his death in 1505.
A Life of Service
George Grey was the second son in his family. His older brother had passed away in 1480. In July 1483, King Richard III made him a Knight of the Bath. This was a special honor given to knights.
Grey also served as a Justice of the Peace in several areas. He helped keep law and order in places like Huntingdonshire, Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and Kent. He started these important roles in 1480.
Fighting for the King
George Grey was a loyal supporter of King Henry VII. In 1487, he fought in the Battle of Stoke Field on June 16. This battle was against Lambert Simnel, who was pretending to be a prince. Grey helped King Henry VII win this important fight.
Later, in 1491, he helped raise money in Bedfordshire for a war against France. He was also part of another royal army on June 17, 1497. This army defeated rebels from Cornwall at the Battle of Deptford Bridge. This battle is also known as the Battle of Blackheath.
Later Life and Family
George Grey passed away in December 1505 in Ampthill. Earlier that year, he had met King Philip I of Castile when the king visited England. A letter from 1506 described George Grey as a "true soldier" and a favorite of King Henry VII. It also mentioned his fancy clothes and horse at court.
Grey was married twice. His first wife was Anne Woodville. She was the daughter of Richard Woodville, 1st Earl Rivers. George and Anne had one son:
- Richard Grey, 3rd Earl of Kent (1481–1524).
After Anne passed away in 1489, George Grey married Catherine Herbert. She was the daughter of William Herbert, 1st Earl of Pembroke. George and Catherine had four children:
- Lady Anne Grey (1490–1545). She married John Hussey, 1st Baron Hussey of Sleaford.
- Henry Grey, 4th Earl of Kent (around 1495 – 1562).
- George Grey.
- Anthony Grey. He was the grandfather of Anthony Grey, 9th Earl of Kent.
