Robert de Comines facts for kids

Robert de Comines (died 28 January 1069) was an important person in England's history. He was briefly an Earl of Northumbria, a powerful leader in the northern part of England. His time as earl was very short, lasting only from 1068 to 1069.

Robert de Comines: His Short Rule

Robert de Comines likely came from a place called Comines in what is now France. This area was once part of the County of Flanders. He joined the group of people who supported William the Conqueror, the King of England.

Becoming Earl

After William the Conqueror took over England, he needed loyal leaders. Robert de Comines was sent to the north to become the Earl of Northumbria. This happened in 1068, after the previous earl, Gospatric, was removed from his position.

The Attack in Durham

Robert de Comines traveled north with about 700 of his men. They reached the city of Durham. The local leader, the bishop Ethelwin, warned Robert that people in the area were planning to fight against him.

However, Robert de Comines did not listen to this warning. On January 28, 1069, rebels gathered in Durham. They attacked Robert's men in the streets. Many of his soldiers were killed. The rebels then set fire to the bishop's house, where Robert was staying. Robert de Comines died in the fire.

After this event, Bishop Ethelwin joined the people who were against the Normans. He gathered an army in Durham and marched towards York. This led to a harsh response from King William's army, known as the Harrying of the North.

Robert de Comines' Family

Robert de Comines might have had two sons:

• John de Comyn (died around 1135) was killed during a time of conflict called The Anarchy. He married the daughter of Adam Giffard of Fonthill and had children.
• William de Comyn (died around 1158) was an important official. He served as the Lord Chancellor of Scotland for King David I of Scotland. He was also a church official in Worcester.