Walter Beauchamp facts for kids

Sir Walter Beauchamp (born around 1380 – died January 1, 1430) was an English lawyer. He became the Speaker of the House of Commons of England for a short time in 1416.

Early Life and Beginnings

Walter Beauchamp was the second son of Sir John Beauchamp. His family lived in Powick, Worcestershire. When he was young, Walter studied law. He also became known as a brave soldier. He showed great courage at the famous Battle of Agincourt.

Because he was a younger son, Walter did not inherit the main family lands. However, he used his family's connections at court. In 1392, he worked for Thomas of Woodstock, Duke of Gloucester, in Ireland.

After returning to England, Walter helped Henry IV. This was before Henry became king in 1399. Because of his service, Walter received £40 a year for life. This was a lot of money back then! Later, in 1400, he received land instead. He and his wife got to use the duchy of Lancaster lands in Easterton and Berwick St. James in Wiltshire.

Serving the King

After getting his lands in Wiltshire, Walter Beauchamp became an esquire in the royal household. An esquire was a knight's assistant or a gentleman who served the king. He likely fought for the king at the Battle of Shrewsbury in 1403. He also campaigned in the north in 1405.

In 1415, he served as a king's knight in France. He was part of the group led by Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester.

His Political Journey

Walter Beauchamp was chosen as High Sheriff of Wiltshire in 1403 and again in 1407. A High Sheriff was a top official in a county. They helped keep the peace and enforce laws.

After returning from France and the Battle of Agincourt, he joined Parliament in 1416. He was a Knight of the Shire for Wiltshire. On March 16, 1416, he was chosen as the Speaker of the House of Commons. The Speaker leads the discussions in Parliament. However, his time as Speaker was short. Parliament was dissolved later that same year.

In 1417, he served in France again. He was in Rouen after it was captured in 1419. He stayed in Normandy for two years. When he came back, he became treasurer of the royal household. He also became treasurer for the war efforts. He was one of the people who helped carry out Henry V's will in 1421.

Soon after, he worked for Queen Catherine. He was the steward of her household. He was also chosen to help protect the young Henry VI.

In 1425, he helped his relative, Richard Beauchamp, the Earl of Warwick. He argued for the Earl's claim to a higher rank in Parliament. This argument took up a lot of time. It ended when John Mowbray got his dukedom back.

In 1429, Walter Beauchamp was made Master of the Horse. This was an important role in the royal household.

Family and Final Years

Walter's older brother was Sir William Beauchamp. He was also a Member of Parliament. Walter married Elizabeth before August 1400. Elizabeth was the daughter of Sir John Roches of Bromham.

Walter and Elizabeth had three children:

• Sir William Beauchamp (1410–1457): He became the 4th Baron St Amand.
• Richard Beauchamp (died 1482): He became a bishop.
• Elizabeth Beauchamp: She married Sir Richard Dudley.

Walter Beauchamp became a knight in 1415. He passed away on January 1, 1430. He was buried at Steeple Lavington (now Market Lavington) church.