John Writhe facts for kids
John Writhe was an important English officer of arms who lived a long time ago. He died in 1504. He was likely the son of William Writhe. John Writhe is famous for being the very first Garter King of Arms to lead the College of Arms. People also believe he created the system of heraldic cadency. This system is still used today to show family connections in coats of arms.
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John Writhe's Career in Heraldry
It's thought that John Writhe started his career as a junior herald. He might have been an Antelope Pursuivant or Rouge Croix Pursuivant. This would have been during the time of King Henry V.
By February 1474, he was known as Falcon Herald. On January 25, 1477, Edward IV made him Norroy King of Arms. Then, on July 6, 1478, he became Garter Principal King of Arms. This was a very important job.
Working for Kings
Writhe had important duties for the kings of England. He was part of Edward IV's funeral in April 1483. He also took part in Richard III's coronation in July of the same year.
As Garter King of Arms, he was also at the coronation of Henry VII. King Henry VII officially reappointed him on February 13, 1486. He even received back pay from the time of the Battle of Bosworth Field.
The College of Arms
John Writhe was the first Garter King of Arms of the College of Arms. This important group was officially started in March 1484. Many people think the College of Arms got its own coat of arms from Writhe. However, it's more likely that Writhe's coat of arms was inspired by the College's.
Writhe was a skilled armorist. This means he was an expert in coats of arms. He collected and put together many important books of coats of arms and family histories.
Diplomatic Missions
As Falcon Herald and later Garter King of Arms, Writhe went on many diplomatic missions. He traveled to Scotland and other countries in Europe. He also went to Ireland at least once. These trips involved representing the English king.
In 1498, King Henry VII gave Writhe and Roger Machado a special license. Machado was the Clarenceux King of Arms. This license allowed them to perform visitations. These were official visits to check on and record coats of arms.
John Writhe's Family Life
John Writhe might have lived in Red Cross Street in London. This street was next to Barbican House. After Writhe died, his son Thomas called him Sir John. However, there is no proof that John Writhe was ever made a knight.
Writhe's first wife was Barbara. She was the daughter of John Dunstanville. They had several children together. Their son Thomas later became the father of Charles Wriothesley, who was a Windsor Herald. Another son, William, became York Herald.
Writhe also had two daughters. The older daughter married John Mynne, who was also a York Herald. John Writhe passed away in May 1504. He was buried in St Giles-without-Cripplegate.
Arms
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See also
- Herald
- King of Arms
