Richard Goz facts for kids

Richard le Goz was an important Norman nobleman who lived a long time ago. He was a strong supporter of William the Conqueror, who became King of England. Richard helped William during the famous Norman conquest of England in 1066.

Richard was the son of Thorstein le Goz, who was a "Viscount" of Avranches. A Viscount was a powerful official, like a local governor, in charge of a specific area. Richard's grandfather was named Ansfred 'the Dane'.

Richard's Early Life and Role

William II, who was the Duke of Normandy, gave Richard the important title of Viscount of Avranches. This happened before the year 1046. This shows that Richard was trusted and respected by Duke William.

Richard might also have been the Lord of Creully. He was put in charge of the castle of Saint-James-de-Beuvron. Duke William built this castle in 1067, right after a war against the Bretons from 1064 to 1066. Being in charge of a castle was a very big responsibility.

Helping with the Norman Conquest

Richard le Goz played a key role in William the Conqueror's plan to invade England. He provided 60 ships to help carry William's army across the sea in 1066. This was a huge contribution! Even though he helped with the ships, Richard is not known to have been at the famous Battle of Hastings.

Richard was also involved in important decisions and legal matters. Between 1070 and 1079, he helped settle a disagreement between Raoul Tesson and the Abbey of Fontenay. Around 1076, he was one of the judges who made a ruling against Robert Bertram. This shows he was a respected figure in the law.

Richard's Family

Richard le Goz married a woman named Emma. People believe Emma was the daughter of Herluin de Conteville and Herleva. Herleva was also the mother of William the Conqueror! This means Emma was William the Conqueror's half-sister. She was also the sister of Robert, Count of Mortain and Odo, who was the Bishop of Bayeux.

Richard and Emma had five children that we know about:

• Hugh d’Avranches: He became the Earl of Chester and also Viscount of Avranches, just like his father.
• Helisende: She married William II, Count of Eu.
• Gilbert d'Avranches: He became the Lord of Marcey.
• Margaret: She married Ranulf de Briquessart. Their son, Ranulf le Meschin, later became the 3rd Earl of Chester.
• Judith: She married Richer de l'Aigle.

Richard's Later Years

Richard le Goz passed away in 1082. After his death, his son Hugh took over his title as Viscount of Avranches. Richard's life shows how important powerful noblemen were in shaping history during the time of the Norman Conquest.