Simon Montagu, 1st Baron Montagu facts for kids

Arms of Montagu: Argent, three fusils conjoined in fess gules

Simon de Montagu, 1st Baron Montagu (died 1316) was an important English nobleman. He was also known as de Montacute. His family name, "Montagu," comes from French words meaning "sharp mountain." Simon became the first Baron Montagu when he was called to join the Parliament. He was the ancestor of the powerful Montagu family, who later became the Earls of Salisbury.

Family Background

Simon's family came from a place called Montaigu-les-Bois in Normandy, France. This family home stayed with them until 1715.

Two people named Montagu are mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. This book was a survey of England ordered by William the Conqueror. Drogo de Montaigu owned land in Somerset, England. Two of his estates there, Sutton Montagu and Shipton Montagu, still have his name today. The family name came from their home in Normandy, not from any specific hill in England.

Simon's Life and Service

Simon de Montagu was the son of William de Montacute and Bertha. He first appears in history during King Edward I of England's war in Wales in 1277. He also served in another Welsh campaign in 1282. This was when King Edward finally defeated Llywelyn ap Gruffudd. Simon was with the king at Rhuddlan Castle.

In 1283, Simon was called to a special meeting of Parliament. This meeting was held in Shrewsbury to try Llywelyn's brother, Dafydd ap Gruffydd. In 1290, Simon was confirmed as the owner of Shipton Montacute in Somerset. He also received more land in other parts of England.

Helping the King in France

In 1294, Simon was asked to join the king in Gascony, France. However, his help was not needed at that time. In 1296, he commanded a ship. He bravely broke through the French ships that were blocking Bordeaux. He brought supplies to the town, which made the French stop their attack. Simon stayed in Gascony until 1297.

Service in Scotland and as Governor

In 1298, a peace agreement was made with France. Simon was then called to an assembly in York. Later that year, he was asked to serve in the war against Scotland. He continued to serve in this war in 1299.

In 1299, Simon became the governor of Corfe Castle in Dorset. He attended Parliament for the next two years. He also continued to serve in the Scottish war. In 1301, he signed an important document called the Barons' Letter of 1301. He signed it as 'Simon, Lord of Monte Acuto'.

In 1306, Simon was forgiven a debt that his father owed. This was because of his good service in Scotland and elsewhere. He was present when Prince Edward was knighted. He continued to serve in the Scottish wars until King Edward I died in 1307.

Later Years and Death

Simon was called to Parliament for the coronation of King Edward II of England. In 1308, he became the governor of Beaumaris Castle in Anglesey. Simon fought against the Scots in 1308 and 1309. He was also appointed to judge people who were unfairly raising prices in London.

In 1310, he was made the Admiral of the Fleet. This fleet was used against the Scots. From 1313, he regularly attended Parliament and served in the Scottish war. Simon tried to take control of the Isle of Man. King Edward II was upset, but he pardoned Simon for his actions in 1313.

Simon was stationed in the north of England during the winter of 1315-16. His job was to watch the Scottish border. He was called to Parliament in January 1316. Simon de Montagu died in 1316. He was buried at Bisham Priory.

Family and Children

Simon de Montagu was married two times. His first wife was Hawise de St Amand, who died in 1287. His second wife was named Isabel. We do not know who her parents were.

Simon had three sons. We do not know which wife was their mother. His oldest son and heir was William Montagu, 2nd Baron Montagu (born around 1285, died 1319). His other two sons were named John and Simon.

Sources

• Duchess of Cleveland, The Battle Abbey Roll with some Account of the Norman Lineages, 3 volumes, London, 1889