Gertrude Courtenay, Marchioness of Exeter facts for kids

Gertrude Courtenay (born Gertrude Blount, around 1499 or 1502 – died September 25, 1558) was an important English lady. She was married to Henry Courtenay, 1st Marquess of Exeter. Gertrude was also part of the royal court of King Henry VIII, meaning she spent time with the King and Queen. She even became a godmother to the future Elizabeth I, who would later become Queen of England.

Early Life and Marriage

Gertrude Blount was the daughter of William Blount, 4th Baron Mountjoy. Her father was an important person in the royal household, working for Queen Catherine of Aragon. Gertrude's mother was Elisabeth Saye.

In 1519, Gertrude married Henry Courtenay. Henry was a very close friend of King Henry VIII. They had grown up together, almost like brothers. This close friendship meant Gertrude and Henry were important members of the King's court.

At the Royal Court

In 1520, Gertrude joined Queen Catherine of Aragon as an attendant at a famous event called the Field of the Cloth of Gold. This was a huge meeting between King Henry VIII of England and King Francis I of France. It was a very grand and showy event, meant to show off the wealth and power of both countries.

Godmother to Princess Elizabeth

In 1533, Anne Boleyn, King Henry VIII's new wife, gave birth to a baby girl. This baby was Princess Elizabeth, who would later become Queen Elizabeth I. When Princess Elizabeth was baptised, Gertrude was chosen to be her godmother for the confirmation ceremony.

This was a bit tricky because Gertrude was a close friend of Queen Catherine, Henry VIII's first wife. It was known that Gertrude didn't really want this role. However, she agreed so she would not upset the King. Being a godparent meant giving a very expensive gift. Some historians believe choosing Gertrude for this role was meant to cause her difficulty.

Later Years and Imprisonment

In October 1537, Gertrude represented Princess Mary at the ceremonies before the funeral of Queen Jane Seymour. Queen Jane was King Henry VIII's third wife.

In 1538, Gertrude and her husband, Henry Courtenay, faced a difficult time. They were sent to the Tower of London along with their son, Edward. This happened because of something called the "Exeter Conspiracy." After her husband, Henry, was executed, Gertrude and her son remained in prison.

However, Gertrude was released from the Tower of London in 1540.

Friend of Queen Mary I

Gertrude was a personal friend of Queen Mary I, who was King Henry VIII's first daughter and later became queen. Gertrude spent time at the royal court during Queen Mary's reign.