Robert Rich, 1st Earl of Warwick facts for kids

Robert Rich, 3rd Baron Rich, who later became the 1st Earl of Warwick, was an important English nobleman. He was born in December 1559 and lived until March 24, 1619. For most of his life, he was known as Baron Rich. Then, in 1618, he was given the higher title of Earl of Warwick. This made him a very powerful and respected figure in England during his time.

Who Was Robert Rich?

Robert Rich was the son of Robert Rich, 2nd Baron Rich. His mother was Elizabeth Baldry. His grandfather was Richard Rich, 1st Baron Rich. The Rich family was well-known and influential in England.

His Life and Titles

Robert Rich became the 3rd Baron Rich in 1581 after his father passed away. This meant he inherited his father's title and lands. Later, in 1618, King James I honored him by making him the 1st Earl of Warwick. This was a very important new title.

His Family and Children

Robert Rich was married two times.

First Marriage

On January 10, 1581, he married Lady Penelope Devereux. She was the daughter of Walter Devereux, 1st Earl of Essex. Robert and Penelope had seven children together:

• Robert Rich (1587–1658): He was their oldest son and inherited his father's titles.
• Henry Rich (1590–1649): Their second son.
• Sir Charles Rich (died 1627): He never married or had children.
• Lettice Rich (died 1619): She was named after her grandmother. Lettice married Sir George Carey first, and then Sir Arthur Lake.
• Penelope Rich: She married Gervase Clifton.
• Essex Rich: She married Sir Thomas Cheek. They had three sons and five daughters.
• Isabella Rich: She married Sir John Smythe. His father was Sir Thomas Smythe, who was the first leader of the East India Company.

Second Marriage

In 1616, Robert Rich married Frances Wray. She was the widow of Sir George St Paul. Frances was known for being kind and generous. She was also the daughter of Sir Christopher Wray, who was a top judge for Queen Elizabeth I. Frances was one of the richest women in Lincolnshire. She and Robert did not have any children together. She passed away in 1634 when she was 66 years old.

His Passing

Robert Rich passed away in March 1619 when he was 59 years old. After his death, his oldest son, Robert Rich, became the 2nd Earl of Warwick.

Images for kids

• 

  A monument for Robert Rich and his second wife, Frances Wray.

• 

  The Rich family's coat of arms.

• 

  Lady Isabella Rich, painted in 1614.