Guy Bryan, 1st Baron Bryan facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Guy Bryan
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Guy Bryan, 1st Baron Bryan (portrait from the Welsh Portrait Collection at the National Library of Wales.
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| Born | about 1319 |
| Died | 17 August 1390 |
| Buried |
Tewkesbury Abbey, Gloucestershire, England
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| Allegiance |  England |
| Years of service | 1337–1372 |
| Commands held | Admiral of the West |
| Battles/wars | Battle of Crécy Battle off Sluys |
Guy Bryan was an important English knight, military leader, and diplomat who lived a long time ago, from before 1319 until 1390. He was known as the 1st Baron Bryan and was also a Knight of the Garter, a very special honor. He played a big part in wars and government during the time of King Edward III and King Richard II.
Contents
Who Was Guy Bryan?
Guy Bryan was born sometime before the year 1319. His father was also named Sir Guy Bryan, and his mother was Joan Carew. His family came from places like Walwyn's Castle in Pembrokeshire and Torbryan in Devon, England.
Guy Bryan's Amazing Career
Guy Bryan had a very busy and important career serving the King of England. He was involved in many major events of his time.
Early Roles and Responsibilities
He fought for England in the Second War of Scottish Independence and later in France during the Hundred Years' War. In 1339, he became the Steward of "Haveral" Castle. A steward was like a manager of the castle and its lands.
In 1341, he was made the Warden of the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire. This meant he was in charge of this large forest. He also became the Governor of St Briavel's Castle, which was the main office for the Warden. He held these important jobs for the rest of his life.
That same year, he received more land in Devon, including the port town of Dartmouth. By 1343, he was recognized as the lord of Dartmouth. He also gained rights to collect taxes on trade in London.
Becoming a Knight and Baron
On August 26, 1346, Guy Bryan was made a Knight Bachelor. This was a special honor given to knights who served the king.
In 1349, he briefly held the job of Keeper of the Great Seal of England. This person was responsible for the King's official seal, used to make documents official.
In 1350, he was given a yearly payment of 200 marks (a type of money) for carrying the King's flag against the French at Calais. From November 25, 1350, he was regularly asked to attend Parliament. This meant he was considered a Baron Bryan, a noble title.
Also in 1350, he was given "free warren" rights over his lands. This meant he could hunt on his own property without needing special permission.
On March 1, 1356, he was appointed Admiral of the West. This made him a top commander of the English navy in the western seas. He held this important naval role until July 18, 1360. In 1359, he bought more land and was also appointed Lord Steward of the Royal Household. This meant he managed the King's palace and staff.
Diplomat and Later Years
In 1361, Guy Bryan served as England's ambassador to Pope Innocent VI. An ambassador is a representative sent to another country or leader to discuss important matters.
From 1366 onwards, he often worked as a justice of the peace for Devon. This role involved keeping law and order. He also bought more land in Dorset.
After another famous knight, Sir John Chandos, died in 1369, Guy Bryan was made a Knight of the Garter. This is one of the highest honors a knight can receive in England.
On May 3, 1370, he was again appointed Admiral of the West, serving until October 6, 1372. He died on August 17, 1390, and was buried in Tewkesbury Abbey.
Guy Bryan's Family
Guy Bryan had several children. Before 1344, he may have married Ann (or Alice) Holway. They might have had two daughters:
- Elizabeth Bryan
- Philippa Bryan
Before July 10, 1350, he married Elizabeth Montagu. She was the daughter of a powerful noble, William Montagu, 1st Earl of Salisbury. Guy and Elizabeth had four known children:
- Margaret Bryan
- Sir Guy Bryan (who died before his father in 1386)
- Sir William Bryan (who died in 1395)
- Sir Philip Bryan (who also died before his father)
After Guy Bryan passed away, his two granddaughters, Philippa and Elizabeth (daughters of his son Sir Guy Bryan), became his main heirs.
