Walter Devereux, 1st Viscount Hereford facts for kids

Walter Devereux, who became the 1st Viscount Hereford, was an important English nobleman and politician. He was born in 1488 and passed away on September 17, 1558. He served in the royal court and was a member of the English Parliament.

Arms of the 1st Viscount Hereford, a symbol of his family.

Becoming a Baron

Walter was the son of John Devereux, the 9th Baron Ferrers, and Cecily Bourchier. His mother's family, the Woodvilles, were also very important. When his father died in May 1501, Walter became the 10th Baron Ferrers. He took control of his family's lands in 1509.

Early Responsibilities

Walter quickly took on many important jobs. In 1510, he became the High Steward of Tamworth. This meant he was in charge of managing the town. The next year, he became a joint Constable of Warwick Castle with Sir Edward Belknap. They were both responsible for the castle's safety. He also helped manage the town of Warwick.

In 1513, Walter was made the Keeper of Netherwood Park. He also became a Royal Commissioner for Wales and the Marches. This meant he helped the King govern these areas. The next year, he was appointed High Steward of Hereford.

Serving the King

Walter Devereux was also a brave soldier. He fought in wars against France and other countries. These included the War of the League of Cambrai and the Italian War. In 1523, he led the English army against France. He showed great courage in a sea battle near Le Conquet. Because of his bravery, King Henry VIII made him a Knight of the Garter on July 13, 1523. This was a very high honor.

Roles in Wales

In 1525, Walter received even more important roles. He became the High Steward of Sutton Coldfield and Buellt. He also served as a trusted advisor to Princess Mary, who would later become Queen Mary I. He was made the Chief Justice of South Wales. In 1526, he became the Chamberlain of South Wales. These roles gave him a lot of power in Wales.

His growing power led to disagreements with a Welsh leader named Rhys ap Gruffydd. Their conflict became very serious. Eventually, Rhys faced serious charges and was removed from power. Walter's strong position in Wales helped prepare the way for big changes in the country.

Later Achievements

Walter continued to serve the King. From 1543 until his death, he was responsible for keeping important records in Cardiganshire. He was with King Henry VIII when the city of Boulogne was captured in France in 1544.

On February 2, 1550, Walter Devereux was given a new, higher title: Viscount Hereford. He also joined the Privy Council, a group of the King's closest advisors. In 1551, he became the Vice-Lord Justice and Lieutenant of Stafford. By 1554, he was a Justice of the Peace for Stafford, Worcester, and Salop. This meant he helped keep law and order in these areas.

Lord Hereford passed away on September 17, 1558. He was buried at St. John's Church in Stowe, Staffordshire. His grandson, Walter Devereux, who later became the Earl of Essex, took over his titles.

Family Life

Walter Devereux was married twice and had several children.

First Marriage

In May 1501, Walter married Lady Mary Grey. She was the daughter of the 1st Marquess of Dorset. They had three children together:

• Sir Richard Devereux: He died before his father. He married Lady Dorothea Hastings. They were the parents of Walter Devereux, who became the 1st Earl of Essex.
• Sir William Devereux: He lived at Merevale Abbey. He married Jane Scudamore.
• Henry Devereux: He never married.

Second Marriage

Around 1539 or 1540, Walter married Margaret Garneys. She was the daughter of Sir John Garneys. They had two children:

• Sir Edward Devereux: He lived at Castle Bromwich. He married Catherine Arden. Their descendants include the current Viscount Hereford.
• Katherine Devereux: She married Sir James Baskerville.