Gilbert de Gant facts for kids
Gilbert de Gant (also known as Giselbert de Gand or Gaunt) was an important Norman nobleman who lived from about 1040 to 1095. He was related to Matilda of Flanders, who was the wife of William the Conqueror. Gilbert was the son of Ralph, Lord of Aalst in Belgium, and Gisele of Luxembourg. He had two older brothers, Baldwin and Ralph.
Gilbert de Gant came to England with William the Conqueror. He became a very powerful landholder after the Norman Conquest of 1066.
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Gilbert's Lands and Wealth
Gilbert de Gant received many lands in England. In 1086, a famous record called the Domesday Book listed his properties. He was given control over 172 English estates, or "manors." A manor was a large piece of land with a village, farms, and often a manor house. Most of Gilbert's manors were in Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire. He also owned land in 14 other areas, including York, Derby, and Leicestershire. This made him one of the wealthiest and most influential people in England at that time.
Role in English History
Gilbert de Gant played a part in important events after the Norman Conquest. In 1069, he was a commander alongside another Norman lord, William Malet. They were involved in a military action in the city of York. During this event, parts of York were burned. This was a difficult time as the Normans worked to control England.
Family Life
Around 1071, Gilbert de Gant married a noblewoman named Alice, who was the Lady of Montfort-sur-Risle. They had several children together. Their children helped to continue the family's important name and influence in England and Normandy.
Gilbert de Gant passed away around 1095. He was buried at Bardney Abbey, which is a monastery near Lincoln City.
Children of Gilbert and Alice
Gilbert and Alice had several children, including:
- Walter de Gant
- Hugh de Montfort
- Robert de Gant, who became an important church leader
- Emma de Gant
- Agnes de Gant
