Reynold Cobham, 1st Baron Cobham of Sterborough facts for kids
Reynold Cobham, 1st Baron Cobham of Sterborough (around 1295–1361), was an important English knight and diplomat during the Middle Ages. He was also a Knight of the Garter, a very special award given by the king. He served King Edward III and his son, Edward the Black Prince, in many battles and important missions.
Contents
Life of a Medieval Knight
Early Years and Royal Service
Reynold Cobham was the son of Sir Reynold Cobham. His family lived at Sterborough Castle in Lingfield, Surrey. From a young age, Reynold Cobham worked on important diplomatic missions for England.
By 1334, he was a knight in the household of King Edward III. This meant he was a close advisor and fighter for the king. He fought in battles against Scotland and later in Europe, in places like the Low Countries and Brittany. In 1342, he was given the title Lord Cobham of Sterborough. This meant he became a member of the House of Lords.
Fighting in the Hundred Years' War
In 1346, Reynold Cobham joined King Edward III's army in France. He fought bravely at the famous Battle of Crécy, where the English army won a big victory. He also took part in the long but successful Siege of Calais.
In 1352, Reynold Cobham received a great honor. He was made a Knight of the Garter. This is one of the oldest and most respected awards in England. In 1353, he became the Captain of Calais. He held this important position until he died.
In 1355, he served under Edward the Black Prince, King Edward III's son. He marched with the Black Prince's army through Aquitaine in France. He also fought in the amazing English victory at the Battle of Poitiers. The French historian Jean Froissart wrote that Reynold Cobham was responsible for defeating the French knight Geoffroi de Charny in this battle.
Family and Legacy
Reynold Cobham married Joan Berkeley. Through this marriage, he became connected to several important noble families. However, the Cobham family was already well-known and connected to the ruling families of England.
Reynold Cobham died in 1361. He likely died from the plague, a terrible sickness that spread across Europe. He was buried in an impressive tomb in Lingfield church. His son, also named Reynold, became the second Lord Sterborough after him.
