Thomas Morley, 4th Baron Morley facts for kids
Thomas de Morley, 4th Baron Morley (born around 1354, died 24 September 1416) was an important nobleman in medieval England. He held the title of Baron Morley and was a Knight of the Garter, which was a very special award given by the King. He was also a high-ranking official called the Lord Marshal and a trusted advisor to the King, known as a Privy Councillor. Thomas de Morley was called to join the English Parliament for many years, from 1379 until his death in 1416.
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Early Life and Family
Thomas Morley was the son of Sir William de Morley, 3rd Baron Morley. His mother was Lady Cecily Bardolf. Thomas became the Baron Morley after his father passed away.
Serving the King
Thomas de Morley was a loyal servant to the English kings of his time. He was involved in several important events and military actions.
Military Service
In 1375, Thomas was a Knight who served in Brittany, a region in France. He was part of a military trip led by the Duke of Brittany and the Earl of Cambridge.
Later, in 1386, there were rumors that England might be invaded. As Lord Morley, he was given the important job of checking the defenses of Great Yarmouth, a port town, and making sure it was ready for protection.
Journeys and Crusades
In 1391, Lord Morley received special permission to go on a crusade to East Prussia, a journey often taken by knights to fight for their faith.
In 1399, he traveled with King Richard II of England on a trip to Ireland. This journey turned out to be difficult for the King.
The Battle of Agincourt
In 1415, Lord Morley joined King Henry V of England on a big trip to France. This trip led to the famous Battle of Agincourt, a major English victory. It is not clear if Lord Morley fought in the battle himself, but he was certainly part of the expedition.
In 1416, he was put in charge of English forces that were preparing to go to France.
Later Life and Marriages
Lord Morley passed away in 1416 in Calais, a town in France. His funeral service was held there, and both King Henry V and the Holy Roman Emperor, Sigismund, Holy Roman Emperor, were present. His body was then brought back to England and buried in a church in Norwich, Norfolk.
Lord Morley was married three times during his life:
- His first wife was Joan de Hastings. They married before 1374. They had one son named Sir Robert de Morley. Sadly, Robert passed away before his father. Robert had a son named Thomas, who later became the 5th Baron Morley.
- His second wife was named Elizabeth. They married before 1380.
- His third wife was Anne le Despencer. They married before 1390. Anne was the daughter of Edward le Despencer, a baron. She did not have any children with Lord Morley.
