John de Berewyk facts for kids

John de Berewyk (died 1312) was an important English judge during the Middle Ages. He helped the king and queen with many tasks, from managing important places to settling disagreements. He was known for his fairness and for traveling around England to make sure justice was served.

Who Was John de Berewyk?

John de Berewyk was an English judge who lived a long time ago, in the 13th and 14th centuries. He was a very busy person who worked for the king and queen. His job was to help make sure laws were followed and that people were treated fairly. He also had other important roles in the government.

Early Career and Royal Service

John de Berewyk started his career by helping to manage important places. For example, in 1278 and 1279, he was in charge of the St. Edmund abbey when it didn't have a leader. He also looked after the see of Lincoln (an important church area) for a short time in 1279. This showed he was trusted with big responsibilities.

Helping the Queen

John de Berewyk also worked closely with Queen Eleanor, who was the wife of King Edward I. In 1284, he was her treasurer, which meant he managed her money. After she passed away in 1294, he was one of the people who helped manage her affairs. He also helped collect taxes in different parts of England in 1263.

A Judge on the Go

John de Berewyk became a judge who traveled around the country. This was called being a "justice itinerant." He started this role in 1292. From 1295 to 1309, he was also called to be a judge in the English Parliament. This meant he helped make important decisions for the whole country.

Keeping the Peace in Oxford

In 1290, John de Berewyk played a key role in solving a big problem in Oxford. There was a disagreement between the university students and the people living in the city. He helped create a special agreement called a 'roll of peace and concord' to keep things calm. This document was then kept safe for the king.

Listening to People's Requests

In 1305, John de Berewyk was given another special job. He was chosen to receive requests, called "petitions," from people in Guernsey. These were like formal letters asking the king for help or to fix something. John de Berewyk could answer many of these requests himself, without needing the king's direct attention.

His Later Life

John de Berewyk owned land in several parts of England, including Surrey, Essex, Wiltshire, Hampshire, and Norfolk. He passed away in 1312, leaving behind a young child. His life showed how important judges and royal officials were in medieval England.