Lowey of Tonbridge facts for kids

The Lowey of Tonbridge was a large area of land in West Kent, England. It was given to Richard Fitz Gilbert (1024–1090) by William the Conqueror. This happened after the Norman conquest of England, which was when William took control of England.

Richard was a cousin of William the Conqueror. Both were related to Richard "The Fearless," who was the first Duke of Normandy. The word "Lowey" (sometimes called Lowry) means "Freedom" or "Liberty." This special gift gave Richard great power over the region. He used this power to collect money from the local people. This money helped him build Tonbridge Castle. The castle became the main home for the de Clare family for the next 250 years.

What Was the Lowey of Tonbridge?

How It Started

The Lowey of Tonbridge was a special gift of land and power. It was given to Richard Fitz Gilbert by William the Conqueror. This happened right after the Norman conquest of England in 1066. Richard was a close relative of William.

The Lowey gave Richard a lot of control. He could make his own rules in this area. He also collected taxes from the people living there. This money was very important. It helped pay for the building of Tonbridge Castle. The castle became the main home for the de Clare family.

Growing Bigger

Richard used his influence to make the Lowey even larger. By the time the Domesday Book was written, it included much of Surrey as well as Kent. The Domesday Book was a huge survey of England. It was ordered by William the Conqueror.

This constant growth of the Lowey caused problems. The de Clare family often disagreed with the Archbishops of Canterbury. These were important church leaders. The king had to step in twice to decide how big the Lowey should be.

Challenges and Changes

Royal Disagreements

Sometimes, the de Clare family had problems with the king. When this happened, the king would take back the castle and the Lowey. This often happened by force. Kings like William II, John, and Henry III all did this.

However, once the disagreements were settled, the castle and Lowey were usually given back to the de Clare family.

A New Owner

In 1314, Gilbert de Clare, 8th Earl of Gloucester died. He was only 23 years old and had no children. He died at the Battle of Bannockburn. After his death, a man named Hugh the younger de Spencer took control. He had married Gilbert's oldest sister.

Hugh didn't wait for King Edward II to decide how Gilbert's lands should be divided. He simply took the Lowey and castle without permission. However, he didn't control it for long. He later lost his life, and the Lowey was taken from him.

Lasting Legacy

Deer Parks and Beyond

The Lowey of Tonbridge included two large areas for hunting deer. These were called North Frith and South Frith. The names of these places are still used today.

The Lowey continued to exist for a very long time. It survived well into the 19th century. In fact, Tonbridge was one of the largest parishes in England. A parish is a local area or district.