Ralph Sandwich facts for kids

Sir Ralph Sandwich (born 1235, died 1308) was an important English official and judge. He was also known as Ralph de Sandwich. He held many key positions, including Steward of the King's Lands, Constable of Canterbury, and the Royal Warden (like a Lord Mayor) of London for several years.

Early Life and Family Connections

Ralph Sandwich was the son of Simon of Sandwich. His uncle was Henry of Sandwich, a clergyman. Ralph's family had strong ties to Simon de Montfort, a powerful noble who challenged the King. These family connections likely helped Ralph start his career in government.

Working for the King

By September 1264, Ralph was working in the household of King Henry III. On January 1, 1265, he became the Master of the Great Wardrobe. This role involved managing the King's personal belongings and finances. Later that year, he was made the Keeper of the Great Seal. This meant he was in charge of the official seal used to approve important documents.

Battle of Evesham and Royal Pardon

On August 4, 1265, Ralph Sandwich fought in the Battle of Evesham. He was on the losing side, fighting for Simon de Montfort. After the battle, his lands were taken away. However, he received a royal pardon in 1266.

Continued Connections

Even after the battle, Ralph kept a good relationship with the Leybourne family, who had received some of his family's lands. He even worked as a lawyer for Roger de Leybourne's widow.

Important Roles and Responsibilities

After his uncle Henry of Sandwich passed away in 1273, Ralph became the administrator for the See of London. He had already helped manage things for them when his uncle was away in Rome.

Serving King Edward I

In November 1273, Ralph was asked to check the financial records of the Constable of Dover Castle. In 1274, he was called to attend the coronation of King Edward I.

Steward of the King's Lands

In November 1275, Ralph became one of three Stewards of the King's Demesne (royal lands). His job was to manage the King's properties in the south and west of England. This was a very demanding role. It involved a lot of travel, handling large sums of money (over £7,000 between 1277 and 1279), and overseeing big building projects in places like Devizes, Banstead, and Odiham.

Key Positions in London

Ralph Sandwich also served as the Keeper of the Port of Dover and the Keeper of the Forest of Dean. He also managed the See of Canterbury for a time. In 1280, he helped negotiate for the location of New Winchelsea.

Warden of London

In 1285, King Edward I took direct control of London. He appointed Ralph Sandwich as the Warden of London on July 1. This was like being the Mayor of London. On September 10, Ralph also became the Constable of the Tower of London. He was effectively the Mayor of London until 1293 and led the city's main court, the Court of Hustings.

Justice and Judge

In 1289, Ralph was appointed Chief Justice of the Court of Common Pleas. This was a very high judicial position. He served as a judge at the Old Bailey every year between 1286 and 1307. He also sat as a judge during the trial of William Wallace in Westminster Hall in 1305.

Later Life and Death

Ralph Sandwich attended the coronation of King Edward II in February 1308. On March 24, he handed over control of the Tower of London. He passed away before August 20, 1308, and was buried in Greyfriars Church.

He had a daughter named Desirée (or Desiderata) from his first marriage. He later married Maud, who survived him.