John Clinton, 5th Baron Clinton facts for kids
John de Clinton, 5th Baron Clinton (who passed away in 1464) was an important English nobleman. He held a special title called a "peer," which meant he was a member of the highest rank of nobility in England.
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Who Was John de Clinton?
John de Clinton was the oldest son of William de Clinton, who was the 4th Lord Clinton, and his mother was Alice de Botreaux. When his father died in 1431, John took over his father's title and responsibilities.
Land Deals and Captivity
John made an interesting trade of land with another important person named Humphrey Stafford. John exchanged his castle at Maxstoke for two other places called Whiston and Woodford in Northamptonshire.
During a war in France, John was in charge of the soldiers protecting a town called Pontoise. In 1441, the French army attacked and captured the town and its castle. John was taken prisoner during this battle.
Ransom and Freedom
John de Clinton was held captive for more than six years. To get his freedom, a large sum of money, called a ransom, had to be paid. His ransom was 6,000 marks, which was a huge amount of money back then! After the ransom was paid, he was finally set free.
In 1448, John gave up his claim to another noble title, the Barony of Saye, in favor of Sir James Fiennes.
Restoration of Titles
Later, in 1459, John de Clinton was accused of supporting the Yorkist side in a conflict, which led to him losing his titles for a short time. However, in 1461, his titles were given back to him.
Family Life
John de Clinton was married twice.
First Marriage
His first wife was Joan. She was the daughter of Edmund Ferrers of Chartley and Ellen Roche. John and Joan had one known child:
Second Marriage
His second wife was Margaret. She was the daughter of John St. Leger and Margaret Donet.
