Robert II de Vaux of Pentney facts for kids

Robert II de Vaux of Pentney, also known as Robert de Vallibus, was an important noble in the 1100s. He inherited large areas of land in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex in England. These lands had been given to his father, also named Robert, by a powerful lord called Roger Bigod of Norfolk after the Norman conquest of England. Robert II is famous for starting Pentney Priory, a special religious house, around the year 1130. He built it to honor his wife Agnes and their children. His oldest son, William, took over his lands after him.

Who Was Robert II de Vaux?

Robert II de Vaux was a significant figure in 12th-century England. He was part of the noble de Vaux family. Being a noble meant he owned a lot of land and had power and influence in society. His family's wealth and status came from the lands they controlled.

Inheriting Lands and Power

Robert inherited his lands from his father, Robert I de Vaux. These lands were originally given to his family after the Norman Conquest. The Norman Conquest happened in 1066 when William the Conqueror took over England. This event changed who owned land and who had power in England. Robert's family was among those who gained from these changes.

Founding Pentney Priory

One of Robert II de Vaux's most notable actions was founding Pentney Priory. A priory was a type of monastery, a place where religious people, like monks, lived and prayed. Pentney Priory was for a group of monks called Augustinians.

Why Was the Priory Built?

Robert established Pentney Priory around 1130. He dedicated it to the Holy Trinity, St Mary, and St Magdalene. He built it "for the souls of Agnes his wife and their children." This means he hoped building the priory would bring blessings and peace for his family in the afterlife. Building religious places was a common way for nobles to show their faith and leave a lasting legacy.

Robert's Family Life

Robert II de Vaux was married to a woman named Agnes. She was the daughter of Ranulf fitz Walter and Matilda de Lanquetot. Together, Robert and Agnes had several children.

Robert and Agnes's Children

Robert and Agnes had at least three sons. These sons would have been important for continuing the de Vaux family line and managing their lands. Their known children were:

• William de Vaux
• Oliver de Vaux
• Henry de Vaux

William, as the eldest son, was the one who inherited his father's titles and lands. This was a common practice in noble families during that time.