Robert Constable (died 1591) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sir Robert Constable |
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| Remains of Helmsley Castle, home of the family of Sir Robert Constable's mother, Katherine Manners | |
| Spouse(s) | Christiana Dabridgecourt |
| Issue | |
| Henry Constable | |
| Father | Sir Robert Constable |
| Mother | Katherine Manners |
| Born | c.1522 |
| Died | 12 November 1591 (aged 68–69) |
| Burial | Holy Trinity Minories, London |
Sir Robert Constable (born around 1522 – died 12 November 1591) was an English soldier and a member of Parliament. He lived in Newark-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire, and in London.
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Who Was Sir Robert Constable?
Sir Robert Constable was born about 1522. He was the second son of Sir Robert Constable of Everingham. His mother was Katherine Manners, whose family lived at Helmsley Castle.
Since Robert was a younger son, he had to make his own way in the world. His older brother, Marmaduke, inherited the family's land when their father passed away in 1558. Marmaduke died soon after, in 1560.
Starting a New Life in Newark
Robert Constable married Christiana Dabridgecourt. Her first husband had been an important official in Newark-on-Trent. This might be why Robert decided to live there. He later leased a property called the Spittal, just outside Newark.
It is believed that Robert Constable was a 'gentleman pensioner' during the time of Queen Mary. This meant he was a paid member of the royal household. For his service, he was made the constable of Queenborough Castle. He was also likely one of the 'lords and gentlemen' who took part in Queen Elizabeth's Accession Day tournaments.
Sir Robert Constable's Military Career
Sir Robert Constable was a brave soldier. He served under Thomas Radclyffe, 3rd Earl of Sussex, during a campaign after the Northern Rebellion in 1569.
Fighting in Scotland
In 1570, he went into Scotland with Lord Hunsdon. They captured Ferniehirst Castle and burned several towns like Hawick and Branxholme. He then joined the siege of Hume Castle.
On May 11, 1570, Robert Constable was knighted by Sussex at Berwick. This honor was given to him and other captains who were helping the Earl of Lennox in the Marian civil war in Scotland.
Serving the Queen
For his service in the wars and during the rebellion, Constable received leases of land. He even wrote a guide on how to organize a military camp, called 'Ordering of a Camp'.
In 1575, he became the Marshal of Berwick. This was an important military role. However, he found the job very expensive and difficult. He wrote to his kinsman, Edward Manners, 3rd Earl of Rutland, complaining about the costs and that the soldiers had not been paid. He also mentioned being very sick and having a bad fall from his horse.
He was finally allowed to leave his post in August 1578. Lord Burghley noted that Constable had become "beggared" (meaning very poor) because of his time at Berwick.
Later Life and Legacy
After leaving Berwick, Constable lived as a country gentleman on his properties in Nottinghamshire.
A Special Performance for the Queen
In May 1585, he was in London. He wrote a letter describing a special event at Greenwich where he and his men put on a military display for Queen Elizabeth. He said it was a great "skirmish" (a small fight or battle) that everyone enjoyed. The Queen herself told them to pause and then start again.
After the show, Queen Elizabeth sent Sir Walter Raleigh to thank him. She also allowed Constable to kiss her hand and promised to take care of him. Because of this impressive performance, Constable was later appointed Lieutenant-General of the Ordnance before August 1588. This meant he was in charge of military supplies and weapons.
Sir Robert Constable was a main mourner at the funeral of the Earl of Rutland in 1587. He was buried in Holy Trinity Minories on November 12, 1591.
Family Life
Before 1562, Sir Robert Constable married Christiana Dabridgecourt. She was the widow of Anthony Forster and the daughter of John Dabridgecourt. Their only child was the famous poet, Henry Constable.
Images for kids
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Remains of Helmsley Castle, home of the family of Sir Robert Constable's mother, Katherine Manners
