Thomas Burgh of Gainsborough facts for kids

Sir Thomas Burgh (pronounced: Borough; born around 1431 – died March 18, 1496) was an important English gentleman. He was also a Knight of the Garter, which is a very special award from the King.

Sir Thomas is often called the 1st Lord Burgh of Gainsborough. He was asked to come to Parliament many times, but it's not clear if he officially held a noble title that could be passed down. His family was very rich and powerful. Thomas was a favorite of the King, who gave him many important jobs, lands, and money.

Sir Thomas Burgh's Important Career

How Did Thomas Burgh Start His Career?

Thomas Burgh began his career working for King Edward IV of England. He was an Esquire of the Body, which meant he was a personal attendant to the King. By Christmas 1462, King Edward IV made Thomas a Knight. He also became a Privy Councillor, advising the King on important matters.

Becoming a Key Figure in Lincolnshire

Sir Thomas slowly became the King's main representative in Lincolnshire. He owned many lands and properties across England, from Northumberland down to Somerset. These lands made him a very rich man. With the King's support, he became a trusted advisor and helper to the people of Lincolnshire. He also served as their Sheriff in 1460 and represented them in Parliament.

Helping King Edward IV Reclaim His Throne

Sir Thomas Burgh was a loyal supporter of King Edward IV. He helped rescue the King when he was held prisoner by the Earl of Warwick at Middleham. In 1471, when Edward IV returned to take back his throne, Sir Thomas was one of the first to join him. He fought bravely in important battles like the Battle of Barnet and the Battle of Tewkesbury.

Loyalty to New Kings

After King Edward IV died, Sir Thomas was approached by King Richard III of England. Thomas supported King Richard at first. However, he was also interested in the future of Henry Tudor, who later became King Henry VII in 1485. Even though Thomas fought in the Battle of Bosworth, his exact role was kept quiet. He quickly gained the trust of the new King Henry VII. King Henry confirmed Thomas as a Knight of the Body and a Privy Councillor, showing his continued importance.

Gainsborough Old Hall: Sir Thomas's Home

Gainsborough Old Hall Tower

In 1460, Sir Thomas built the impressive Old Hall in Gainsborough. This grand house was not just his home. It also showed everyone how wealthy and important the Burgh family was. Sir Thomas also gave a lot of money to Newark Church. He also started a special church and a home for the poor in Gainsborough.

In 1470, the Old Hall was attacked by Sir Robert Welles because of disagreements over land and status. Luckily, the hall was not badly damaged. In 1484, Sir Thomas welcomed King Richard III to his hall as a guest. Today, the Hall is still standing. Its beautiful timber roof and kitchen, which is one of the most complete medieval kitchens in England, can still be seen. The Hall is over 500 years old and is one of the best-preserved medieval manor houses in England.

Sir Thomas's Family Life

Sir Thomas married Margaret de Ros (1432–1488). Margaret was the widow of William de Botreaux, 3rd Baron Botreaux. She was the daughter of Sir Thomas de Ros, 8th Baron de Ros, and Lady Eleanor Beauchamp. Lady Eleanor's mother was Elizabeth Berkeley. Margaret's mother, Lady Eleanor, later married Edmund Beaufort, 2nd Duke of Somerset. This made Margaret a half-sister to the Duke of Somerset.

Sir Thomas and Margaret had several children:

• Edward Burgh, 2nd Baron Burgh: He married Anne Cobham. His grandson, Sir Edward Burgh, later married Catherine Parr. Catherine Parr became Queen of England when she married King Henry VIII.
• Elizabeth Burgh (died August 1, 1507): She married Richard FitzHugh, 6th Lord FitzHugh. After he died, she married Sir Henry Willoughby. Her father left her a special "book of gold enamelled" in his will.
• Margaret Burgh (died before April 1493): She married Sir George Tailboys.
• Thomas Burgh: His father gave him a gold cross with an emerald in his will.
• Anne Burgh: Her father gave her a gold cross with precious stones and rubies in his will.

Death and Burial

Lord Thomas Burgh passed away on March 18, 1496. He was buried next to his wife, Margaret, in the family tomb at Holy Trinity Church in Gainsborough.

See also

• Hubert de Burgh, 1st Earl of Kent (c.1170–1243) English nobleman and ancestor of the Burghs of Gainsborough