Henry Bourchier, 1st Earl of Essex facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Henry Bourchier
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| 5th Baron Bourchier 1st Viscount Bourchier Earl of Essex |
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Canting arms of Bourchier: Argent, a cross engrailed gules between four water bougets sable
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| Born | c. 1404-1406 |
| Died | 4 April 1483 (aged 76–79) |
| Noble family | Bourchier |
| Spouse(s) | Isabel of York |
| Issue | William Bourchier, Viscount Bourchier Henry Bourchier Humphrey Bourchier, 1st Baron Cromwell John Bourchier Edward Bourchier Thomas Bourchier Florence Bourchier Fulk Bourchier Hugh Bourchier Isabella Bourchier Laura, Countess of Devon |
| Father | William Bourchier, Count of Eu |
| Mother | Anne of Gloucester |
Henry Bourchier, born around 1404-1406, was an important English nobleman. He held several high-ranking titles, including the 5th Baron Bourchier, 1st Viscount Bourchier, and 1st Earl of Essex. He was also a Knight of the Garter, which is a very special honor.
Henry was the oldest son of William Bourchier and Anne of Gloucester. His mother's family was very important, as he was a great-grandson of Edward III of England, a famous English king. This connection meant he was related to the royal family.
Becoming a Nobleman
Henry Bourchier inherited his first title, 5th Baron Bourchier, in 1433. He received this title from his cousin, Elizabeth Bourchier. Later, in 1446, he was given the new title of 1st Viscount Bourchier.
In 1452, he became a Knight of the famous Order of the Garter. This is one of the oldest and most respected orders of knighthood in England. Finally, in 1461, he was made the 1st Earl of Essex, which was a very high rank.
His Important Career
Henry Bourchier was a busy man who took part in many important events in England. He fought in wars in France, showing his bravery and skill as a soldier. Because of his service, he was given the title of Viscount Bourchier.
He also fought in major battles in England, supporting the Yorkist side during the Wars of the Roses. He was at the Second Battle of St Albans and the Battle of Towton in 1461. After these battles, King Edward IV made him the Earl of Essex.
Henry also held a very important job called Lord High Treasurer. This meant he was in charge of the country's money and finances. He held this role three times: from 1455 to 1456, from 1460 to 1462, and again from 1471 until his death in 1483. He was also a Justice in Eyre, which meant he oversaw royal forests and laws in the southern part of England.
Henry Bourchier passed away on April 4, 1483. He was first buried at Beeleigh Abbey, but his tomb was later moved to Little Easton church.
Family Life
Before 1426, Henry Bourchier married Isabel of Cambridge. She was also from a very important family, being a great-granddaughter of King Edward III. Isabel was also the older sister of Richard Plantagenet. This made her the aunt of two future kings of England: Edward IV and Richard III.
Henry and Isabel had many children, at least eleven in total. Some of their notable children included:
- William Bourchier, who became Viscount Bourchier.
- Humphrey Bourchier, who was killed in the Battle of Barnet.
- Edward Bourchier, who was killed in the Battle of Wakefield.
- Laura Bourchier, who married John Courtenay.
Isabel did not marry again after Henry's death. She passed away more than a year later.
