Squire facts for kids

A knight and his squire.

A squire was a young person who helped a knight long ago. They were like an apprentice, learning everything they needed to know to become a knight themselves one day. Squires carried the knight's shield and armour, and sometimes helped them with other tasks.

The meaning of the word "squire" has changed over many years. In the Middle Ages, a squire was an apprentice to a knight. Later, in England, the word was used for important people in a village, like the leader of a manor. Even later, it was used for public figures such as a Justice of the Peace or a Member of Parliament. In modern America, a "squire" can still be a title for a local official like a Justice of the Peace. The word squire is actually a shorter version of the word Esquire.

Becoming a Knight's Helper

Young boys who wanted to become knights often started their training very early. First, they might become a "page" around the age of seven. A page would learn manners, how to ride a horse, and basic fighting skills. They would also help the ladies of the castle.

From Page to Squire

When a boy was around 14 years old, if he had done well as a page, he could become a squire. This was a big step towards becoming a knight. A squire would be assigned to a specific knight and would live with him, learning directly from him.

A Squire's Duties

A squire had many important jobs. They would:

• Help the knight put on his heavy armour.
• Carry the knight's shield and weapons.
• Take care of the knight's horses.
• Clean the knight's armour and weapons.
• Serve the knight at meals.
• Go with the knight into battle, often carrying extra weapons or helping if the knight was injured.
• Learn how to fight with swords, lances, and other weapons.
• Practice riding and fighting while wearing armour.

A squire's training was very hands-on. They learned by doing and by watching their knight. If a squire proved himself brave and skilled, he might eventually be made a knight himself, usually in his early twenties.

The Word "Squire" Today

While the role of a knight's squire is part of history, the word "squire" is still used sometimes. It can refer to a person who owns a large country estate, especially in England. It can also be used as a formal title, like "Esquire," which is sometimes used after a lawyer's name in the United States.

Images for kids

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  Wolfram von Eschenbach and his squire (Codex Manesse, 14th century)

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  A squire cleaning armour

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  A squire helping his knight, in a historical reenactment in 2009

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  A squire holds the warhorse of his knight, detail from monument to Sir Richard Stapledon (d.1326), Exeter Cathedral.

See also

In Spanish: Escudero (historia) para niños