Henry de Cliff facts for kids

Henry de Cliff was an important English official who lived in the 13th and 14th centuries. He served several English kings, including Edward II and Edward III. He held many significant positions, like Master in Chancery and Master of the Rolls. These roles meant he helped manage important government documents and the king's official seal.

Early Career and Important Roles

Henry de Cliff first appears in historical records in May 1313. At that time, he was traveling with King Edward II.

Working with the Great Seal

By May 1317, Henry de Cliff was a "master in chancery." This meant he was a senior clerk who helped with legal and government paperwork. He was trusted with the Great Seal. This special seal was used to make official documents, like laws and royal orders, valid. He often held the Great Seal at the home of the Lord Chancellor, who was like the king's chief minister.

From 1317 to 1324, Henry de Cliff continued to be one of the main clerks. He often looked after the Great Seal when the Lord Chancellors were away. These chancellors included important bishops like John Sandale, John Hotham, John Salmon, and Robert Baldock.

In October 1320, Henry de Cliff helped check petitions (requests) from people in England and Wales during a meeting of parliament. By February 1324, he was also a canon (a type of priest) at York. He also represented the church leaders of York and the bishop of St Asaph in parliament.

Becoming Master of the Rolls

On 4 July 1325, Henry de Cliff received a very important job: he was appointed Master of the Rolls. This role meant he was in charge of keeping all the official records and documents of the government.

After King Edward II gave up his throne in 1326, Henry de Cliff was asked to help secure the Great Seal. He added his own seal to that of the Bishop of Norwich to keep it safe. Until a new Lord Chancellor was appointed, the Bishop of Norwich and Henry de Cliff shared the duties of the chancellor.

Challenges and Responsibilities

Henry de Cliff faced a disagreement with Thomas de Cherleton, who was the Bishop of Hereford. This dispute was about a church position in Salisbury Cathedral. Because of this, Henry de Cliff was temporarily "excommunicated." This meant he was not allowed to take part in church activities. However, King Edward III personally wrote letters to support him and help resolve the issue.

The Great Seal continued to be often placed in Henry de Cliff's care. He held it with another official, William de Herlaston, from March to May 1328. He also looked after it during other times in 1328 and 1329 when the Lord Chancellor, Henry Burghersh, was absent. He continued to be trusted with the seal under the next chancellor, John de Stratford, in 1331 and 1332.

In 1329, he was part of a group, including the Bishop of Hereford, that opened a special session of parliament.

His Final Years

Henry de Cliff passed away in January 1334. On 20 January, another official named Michael de Wath took over his role.