Robert Knollys (courtier) facts for kids

Sir Robert Knollys (died 1521) was an English courtier who worked for two famous kings, Henry VII and Henry VIII. He was a trusted helper and friend to both kings, serving them in important ways during his life.

A Life at Court

Sir Robert Knollys came from an important family. His parents were Robert Knollys and Elizabeth Troutbeck. His grandparents were Sir Richard Knollys and Margaret D'Oyley, and Sir John Troutbeck and Margaret Hulse.

In 1488, when Henry VII was king, Robert Knollys was one of his close assistants. Later that year, he was chosen to serve the king's son, Prince Arthur. He received money from the king for his service. When King Henry VII met Archduke Philip in 1500, Knollys was there as one of the people who helped manage the king's rooms.

He continued this important job when Henry VIII became king. In 1509, he started receiving a yearly payment of £20 from the king. He also received a grant of land in Hampshire called Rookes Manor. This land had belonged to someone else, Sir Richard Empson, but was taken by the king.

In 1514, Sir Robert and his wife were given the manor of Rotherfield Greys in Oxfordshire. They could live there for their lives, paying a small rent of one red rose each year. This gift was confirmed by the king in 1517. Other gifts from the king followed.

Family and Legacy

Robert Knollys died in 1521. He was buried in the church of St Helen's Bishopsgate. His last wishes, written in his will, were officially recognized in June 1521.

His wife was named Letitia or Lettice. She was the daughter of Sir Thomas Penyston and Alice Bulstrode. After Robert Knollys died, she married Sir Robert Lee. After Sir Robert Lee died in 1539, she married Sir Thomas Tresham. She died in 1558.

Robert Knollys had several children. These included a son named Francis, another son named Henry, and two daughters, Mary and Jane. Jane married Sir Charles Wingfield.

His son Henry (died 1583) was also favored by kings and queens, including Edward VI and Queen Elizabeth I. Henry went abroad with his brother Francis when Queen Mary I was ruling England. In 1562, he was sent on a special trip to Germany to learn about the Protestants there. In 1569, he helped guard important people like Mary, Queen of Scots, and the Duke of Norfolk. Henry was also a Member of Parliament, representing Reading in 1563 and Christchurch in 1572. His will was officially recognized in 1583.

See also

• Knollys (family)