Joan Champernowne facts for kids
Joan Champernowne, Lady Denny (who passed away in 1553), was an important lady-in-waiting at the court of King Henry VIII of England. She became a very close friend to his sixth wife, Queen Catherine Parr. Joan married Sir Anthony Denny, who was known as King Henry's most trusted helper at the end of his rule.
A Life at Court
Joan Champernowne was born in Modbury, Devon, sometime before 1513. Her parents were Sir Philip Champernowne and K(C)atherine Carew. She later married Sir Anthony Denny, whose father was Sir Edmund Denny.
In August 1539, Joan and other ladies from the court visited Portsmouth to see a new ship. They sent a letter to King Henry VIII, which many of them signed. This shows she was an active part of the royal court.
Joan and Sir Anthony Denny had twelve children together. Two of their notable children were:
- Henry Denny, who became the Dean of Chester. He passed away on March 24, 1574.
- Sir Edward Denny, who passed away on February 12, 1600. He married Margaret Edgcumbe and had children.
Joan was known for being both beautiful and smart. She and her husband were part of a growing group at court who supported the Protestant religion. Her niece was Katherine Ashley, who later became the governess (teacher and caretaker) for Queen Elizabeth I. A historian named Joanna Denny is a descendant of Joan Champernowne.
Sources
- Narasingha P. Sil. Oxford Dictionary of National Biography, Denny, Sir Anthony (1501–1549)
