Thomas Rempston (KG) facts for kids
Sir Thomas Rempston (also known as Ramston) was an important English knight who lived a long time ago. He was a member of the Order of the Garter, a special group of knights. He also held important jobs like being the Constable of the Tower of London and a member of Parliament. He lived during a time of big changes in England's history.
Contents
Early Life and Beginnings
Thomas Rempston was born in a place called Rempstone in Nottinghamshire, England. His family had lived there for many years. His father's name was John Rempston.
Serving in Parliament
Thomas Rempston became involved in politics when he was still quite young. In 1381, he was chosen as a Knight of the Shire for Nottinghamshire. This meant he was a representative for his area in the English Parliament. He served in Parliament several times, including in 1382, 1393, and 1395.
He also worked as the Sheriff of Nottinghamshire in 1393. A sheriff was like a chief law enforcement officer for a county back then.
A Supporter of Henry IV
In 1398, Sir Thomas Rempston decided to support Henry, Earl of Derby. Henry had been sent away from England by the king at the time, King Richard II.
Journey to England
The next year, Sir Thomas traveled to France to join Henry. He was one of only fifteen knights who sailed with Henry from Boulogne. They landed in England at a place called Ravenspur in July 1399. This was a very important moment, as Henry was returning to claim the throne.
Guarding the King
After Henry became King Henry IV, Sir Thomas Rempston was given a very important job. On October 7, 1399, he was made the Constable of the Tower of London. In this role, he was in charge of the Tower and its prisoners. One of his most famous prisoners was the former King Richard II. Sir Thomas was even there when King Richard II officially gave up his crown.
Important Roles and Missions
Sir Thomas Rempston continued to serve King Henry IV in many important ways.
Admiral of the Fleet
In February 1400, he joined a group investigating serious crimes in London. Soon after, he was made an admiral of the English navy. He was in charge of ships from the Thames all the way to the east. In August of the same year, he became a Knight of the Order of the Garter. This was a very high honor. Around the same time, he also became the steward of the king's household.
In 1401, his admiral duties changed, and he was put in charge of the fleet from the Thames westwards. He also worked on solving problems with France, including an unpaid ransom for an earlier French king, King John.
Diplomatic Missions
Sir Thomas was also a diplomat. In December 1402, he talked with the Duke of Orleans from France. After many discussions, they signed a peace agreement in June 1403.
In 1404-1405, he became a member of the privy council, a group of important advisors to the king. Parliament even suggested that King Henry IV should give him special thanks for his service. He also went on a mission to see the Duke of Burgundy.
Final Years and Legacy
Early in 1406, Sir Thomas Rempston was captured by French pirates while crossing the Thames River. Luckily, he was released quickly. In the same year, he served as the king's vice-chamberlain.
Sadly, Sir Thomas Rempston drowned in the River Thames near the Tower of London on October 31, 1406.
Family and Property
Sir Thomas Rempston was very important in building his family's wealth and standing. He bought a lot of land in Nottinghamshire, including the manor of Bingham, which became his main home. He married Margaret, who was the daughter of Sir Simon Leeke. Margaret had been married before to Sir Godfrey Foljambe. Sir Thomas and Margaret had several children, including a famous son also named Thomas Rempston. Margaret lived longer than Sir Thomas.
