Hugh Bigod (Justiciar) facts for kids

Hugh Bigod (born around 1211, died 1266) was an important person in England's government. He served as the Chief Justiciar of England from 1258 to 1260. This was like being a chief judge or a very high-ranking government official. He was the younger son of Hugh Bigod, 3rd Earl of Norfolk, a powerful noble.

Hugh Bigod's Role in Government

In 1258, a new set of rules called the Provisions of Oxford was created. These rules aimed to give more power to a group of important nobles, called barons. They wanted to limit the power of the king, Henry III.

Hugh's older brother, Roger Bigod, 4th Earl of Norfolk, was a key leader in this new baronial government. Because of this, Hugh Bigod was chosen to be the Chief Justiciar.

Important Responsibilities

As Chief Justiciar, Hugh Bigod had many important jobs. He was also put in charge of the Tower of London. For a short time, he was also in charge of Dover Castle, which was a very important fortress.

However, by late 1260 or early 1261, Hugh Bigod decided to leave these important jobs. It seems he was not happy with how the new baronial government was working.

Changing Sides in Conflict

Later, in 1263, Hugh Bigod decided to support the king's side. This was during a time of conflict between the king and the barons. He was present with the king's forces at the Battle of Lewes.

This battle took place near a village called Fletching, which is north of Lewes. Hugh Bigod managed to escape from the battle. However, King Henry III and his son, Prince Edward, were captured by the barons.

His Family Life

Hugh Bigod got married before February 5, 1244. His wife was Joan de Stuteville. She was a widow and the daughter of Nicholas de Stuteville.

Hugh and Joan had several children together. They had four sons and four daughters.

• Roger Bigod: He later became the 5th Earl of Norfolk. He married twice but did not have any children.
• Ralph Bigod
• John Bigod: He became a cleric (a church official). He later inherited property from his older brother, Roger.
• Richard Bigod
• Elizabeth Bigod
• Rohese Bigod
• Maud Bigod
• Joan Bigod: She married a knight named Sir Philip de Kyme.