Stephen of Aumale facts for kids
Stephen of Aumale (born around 1070, died in 1127) was an important noble in medieval times. He was the Count of Aumale from before 1089 until 1127. He was also known as the Lord of Holderness in England.
Contents
Early Life and Family Connections
Stephen was the son of Odo, Count of Champagne, and Adelaide of Normandy. His mother, Adelaide, was the Countess of Aumale. She was also the sister of William the Conqueror, who became King of England. Stephen took over as Count of Aumale from his mother before the year 1089.
A Royal Cousin
Stephen was a first cousin to two powerful brothers: William Rufus, who was King of England, and Robert Curthose, who was the Duke of Normandy. This family connection made him a significant figure in the politics of his time.
Challenges and Alliances
In 1095, some powerful nobles planned to remove King William Rufus from the English throne. Their goal was to make Stephen the new king. The main leaders of this plan were Robert de Mowbray and Guillaume III of Eu, Count of Eu. Stephen was not punished for this plan. He was likely in Normandy, outside of the King's reach in England. However, Stephen's father, Odo of Champagne, lost his lands in England because he was involved in the plot.
Joining the Crusades
In 1096, Stephen joined the First Crusade. This was a major religious journey to the Holy Land. He was part of the army led by his cousin, Robert Curthose, the Duke of Normandy.
Shifting Loyalties
After King William Rufus died, Stephen's fortunes changed. In 1102, he got back the lands his father had lost in England. He became the Lord of Holderness in Yorkshire.
Stephen often had to choose sides in the conflicts between powerful leaders. In 1104, he supported Henry I of England against his cousin, Robert II Curthose. However, in 1118, Stephen changed his support. He sided with William Clito when William rebelled against King Henry I. Stephen also had the support of Baldwin VII of Flanders. Stephen finally made peace with King Henry I in 1119.
Family Life
Stephen married a woman named Hawise. She was the daughter of Ralph de Mortimer, who was Lord of Wigmore. Stephen and Hawise had several children:
- Guillaume le Gros (born around 1101, died 1179): He became the Count of Aumale after his father. He married Cecily of Skipton.
- Étienne le Gros (Stephen) (born around 1112): He is mentioned in records from 1150. He married the daughter of Roger Mortimer.
- Enguerrand or Ingelran de Aumale: He is also mentioned in records from 1150.
- Agnès (born around 1117, died after 1170): She first married William de Roumare, who died in 1151. Later, as a widow, she married Adam I de Brus, Lord of Skelton.
