Richard Middleton (Lord Chancellor) facts for kids

Richard Middleton (sometimes called Richard of Middleton or Richard de Middleton) was an important person in England during the 1200s. He was a church leader and also held a very important job for the King, called the Lord Chancellor. He passed away on August 7, 1272.

Richard Middleton's Important Jobs

Richard Middleton had two main types of jobs: working for the King and working for the Church. These roles were often connected in medieval times.

Becoming Lord Chancellor

Richard Middleton became the Lord Chancellor on July 29, 1269. The Lord Chancellor was a very powerful position. This person was like the King's chief advisor and the head of the government's legal system. They helped the King make important decisions and manage the country's laws.

He worked for two different Kings during his time as Lord Chancellor: King Henry III and King Edward I. Richard Middleton left this job sometime before he died. Another person named Walter de Merton took over the role later that year.

Church Roles

Besides his work for the King, Richard Middleton also had important jobs in the Church.

Serving in Yorkshire

On January 5, 1270, he was given a special role at the church in Hemingbrough. This town is located in a part of England called the East Riding of Yorkshire. This job was given to him by the leaders of Durham Cathedral.

Archdeacon of Northumberland

Richard Middleton also served as the Archdeacon of Northumberland. An Archdeacon is a senior church official who helps the Bishop manage a large area of churches. He was known to be in this position in 1271 and 1272.

His Family

Richard Middleton died on August 7, 1272. He had a son named Gilbert. This Gilbert passed away by the year 1291. Richard also had a grandson, who was also named Gilbert.