John FitzAlan, 1st Baron Arundel facts for kids
John Fitzalan, 1st Baron Arundel (born around 1348 – died 1379), also known as Sir John Arundel, was an English soldier and an important leader in his time.
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John Fitzalan's Family Background
John Fitzalan was born in Etchingham, Sussex, England. His father was Richard Fitzalan, 3rd Earl of Arundel (who lived from about 1313 to 1376). His mother was Eleanor of Lancaster (1318–1372). Eleanor was the daughter of Henry, 3rd Earl of Lancaster. John also had a famous brother, Thomas Arundel, who became the Archbishop of Canterbury. His sister was Joan Fitzalan, Countess of Hereford.
Important Roles and Castle Building
In 1377, Richard II, the King of England, chose John to be the Lord Marshal of England. This was a very important job, like being in charge of the army and royal ceremonies. John was called to the House of Lords on August 4, 1377. He served as Lord Marshal until 1379.
On July 26, 1379, John Fitzalan received special permission to build a stone castle. This permission was called "crenellate," which meant he could add battlements and make the castle stronger. The castle was built on the site of an older fortress in Surrey. Today, the remains of this structure are known as Betchworth Castle.
Victory at Sea
John Fitzalan led a group of ships to help the Duke of Brittany. During this mission, his fleet fought against the French navy. He successfully defeated the French ships off the coast of Cornwall, showing his skill as a naval commander.
A Tragic End at Sea
Sir John was leading another group of soldiers by sea to help the Duke of Brittany. They had to wait for strong winds to set sail. Before they left, some of his men took goods from a nearby church. This made the local priests very angry.
When the ships finally set out, a big storm hit them. During the storm, Sir John and his ship captain were swept into the sea. They drowned off an island near the Irish coast. Many ships were lost, and many people died in the storm.
Where He Was Buried
John Fitzalan was buried in Lewes, Sussex.
His Family and Children
On February 17, 1358, John Fitzalan married Eleanor Maltravers (who lived from 1345 to 1404 or 1406). She was the daughter of John Maltravers, 1st Baron Maltravers. John and Eleanor had at least five children:
- Joan FitzAlan (born around 1360 – died September 1, 1404). She married twice.
- John FitzAlan, 2nd Baron Arundel (born November 3, 1364 – died August 14, 1390). He married Elizabeth le Despenser.
- Richard FitzAlan (born around 1366 – died June 3, 1419).
- Sir William Arundel (born around 1369 – died 1400). He was a Knight of the Garter, a very important honor.
- Margaret (born 1372 – died July 7, 1439). She married William Ros, 6th Baron Ros.
