Hugh of Montgomery, 2nd Earl of Shrewsbury facts for kids
Hugh of Montgomery, 2nd Earl of Shrewsbury (who died in 1098), was a powerful noble from England with Norman roots. He was part of the important House of Bellême family. People also knew him as Hugh the Red because of his hair or complexion.
Contents
Early Life and Family
Hugh was the second son of Roger de Montgomerie, 1st Earl of Shrewsbury. His mother was Mabel de Bellême. His family, the House of Montgomery, was very important. After the Normans took over England, it was common for the oldest son to inherit lands in Normandy, while younger sons got lands in England. This is how Hugh inherited his father's English lands.
Becoming an Earl
When his father passed away in 1094, Hugh became the Earl of Shrewsbury. This meant he was in charge of a large area in England and parts of Wales. He took over his father's titles and lands.
Challenges and Battles
Hugh spent most of his time as Earl fighting in the Welsh Marches. This was a border area between England and Wales. He worked hard to protect his lands from Welsh attacks.
In 1095, Hugh was involved in a plot against King William II, also known as William Rufus. However, he was later forgiven by the King in 1096 after paying a large fine.
Death in Battle
In 1098, Hugh joined forces with another powerful Earl, Hugh d'Avranches, 1st Earl of Chester. They wanted to take back Anglesey, an island off the coast of Wales. The Welsh had taken control of it in 1094.
Around July 31, 1098, Hugh was killed during the Battle of Anglesey Sound. He was fighting against King Magnus Barefoot of Norway, who was raiding the area. Hugh was shot by an arrow and fell into the sea. Some stories say that King Magnus himself shot the arrow that killed Hugh.
Who Came Next?
Hugh never married or had children. So, after his death, his older brother, Robert of Bellême, inherited his English lands and titles. Robert became the 3rd Earl of Shrewsbury.
