John Kendal facts for kids
John Kendal (sometimes John Kendall) lived from about 1400 to 1485. He was a trusted secretary to Richard III of England, who was the King of England. John Kendal was a very loyal supporter of the House of York, which was one of the main families fighting for the throne during the Wars of the Roses. He was also a personal friend of Richard, who was then known as Richard of Gloucester. John Kendal died fighting bravely for the King's army at the Battle of Bosworth in 1485.
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Who Was John Kendal?
John Kendal was an important figure in English history during the 15th century. He served King Richard III and played a key role in the government.
Early Life and Family
Not much is known about John Kendal's immediate family. Some historians believe he might have been born in Appleby-in-Westmorland, England. It is also thought that he could be related to a famous grammarian named Richard Kendal. Another idea suggests he might have been the son of John Kendall from Gloucester.
Working for the King
John Kendal was a very loyal supporter of the Yorkist family. This family was trying to become kings of England. He worked for King Edward IV, who was Richard III's brother. Edward IV first made him the Cofferer to the Household. This job meant he managed the royal household's money. Later, he became the Clerk of Works, overseeing royal building projects. He was a reliable civil servant, meaning he did his government jobs well.
Important Jobs
When the old king died in 1483, John Kendal gained even more important roles. He became the Comptroller of the Exchange and the Assayer of the Mint. These jobs involved checking money and making sure coins were made correctly. He also became the Chief Clerk and Keeper of the Rolls of the King's Bench. This was a very important legal position.
By the time Richard III became king, John Kendal was his main secretary. He was a close friend and advisor to Richard. John Kendal made the role of secretary very important in the government. He helped Richard III run the country.
A Key Supporter
In 1481, while Richard of Gloucester was fighting near the Scottish border, Kendal helped him with land deals. He helped Richard buy land for his friend, Sir John Howard. When Richard became King Richard III, Kendal also received his own land in York. He was the first person to be given the Honorary Freedom of the city of York. This was a special title that made him a 'Freeman' of the city.
His Final Battle
John Kendal stayed loyal to King Richard III until the very end. He fought alongside the King's army at the Battle of Bosworth in 1485. Sadly, he was killed during this battle.
See also
- Secretary of State (England)
- Cofferer of the Household
- Freeman of the City of York
- Clerk of the Works
- Assayer of the Mint
- Comptroller of the Exchange
