Richard Abberbury the Elder facts for kids

Sir Richard Abberbury the Elder (1331–1399) was an important person in England a long time ago. He worked for Queen Anne of Bohemia, who was married to King Richard II. His job was called 'Chamberlain', which meant he was a very important helper and manager in the Queen's royal household.

Early Life and Family

Richard Abberbury was the son of Thomas Abberbury. He inherited land and property in a place called Donnington in Berkshire in 1353. He also had connections to Steeple Aston in Oxfordshire.

Richard married a woman named Agnes. Her father was a very important judge called Sir William Shareshull. In 1359, a famous knight known as the Black Prince made Richard a knight too. Richard and Agnes had two sons, and one of them was also named Richard Abberbury the Younger.

Richard Abberbury the Elder also worked as a 'justice of the peace' in three different areas: Berkshire, Oxfordshire, and Wiltshire. This meant he helped keep law and order in those places.

Military Service and Public Roles

Sir Richard Abberbury was a soldier and fought in battles. He fought alongside the Black Prince in 1359. Later, he fought in a place called Gascony in 1366 and 1368, staying there until after 1371.

He also served at sea in 1374 with his own group of soldiers and archers. In 1378, he sailed to France and became the Captain of Brest, a very important military job, which he did for a year.

In 1382, he was given the important job of Chamberlain to Queen Anne of Bohemia. He was also chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Oxfordshire in 1373 and again in 1386. An MP is someone who represents their area in the country's government.

Donnington Castle and Charity

In 1386, King Richard II gave Sir Richard Abberbury special permission. This allowed him to turn his manor house at Donnington into a strong, fortified castle. This castle became known as Donnington Castle.

Sir Richard was also a kind person who helped others. In 1393, he started a charity called the Donnington Hospital. He built special houses, called almshouses, where people who needed help could live. These were built on the same spot where similar houses stand today.

Sir Richard Abberbury the Elder passed away in April 1399.