William Herbert, 1st Earl of Pembroke (died 1469) facts for kids

Arms of Sir William Herbert, 1st Baron Herbert, at the time of his installation in the Most Noble Order of the Garter: Per pale azure and gules, three lions rampant argent

William Herbert, also known as "Black William", was an important Welsh nobleman. He was a soldier, a politician, and worked closely with the King. He lived from about 1423 to 1469. He was also a Knight of the Garter, which is a very special award.

William Herbert's Early Life

William Herbert's father was William ap Thomas, who built Raglan Castle. His family was close to King Henry V of England. William Herbert supported the Yorkist side during the Wars of the Roses, a big fight for the English throne. Because of his loyalty, King Edward IV gave him the title of Baron Herbert of Raglan in 1461. He also became a Knight of the Garter.

Becoming Earl of Pembroke

After the Yorkists won an important battle called the Battle of Towton in 1461, William Herbert became the Earl of Pembroke. This gave him control of Pembroke Castle. He also became the guardian of a young boy named Henry Tudor, who would later become King of England.

However, William Herbert later had a disagreement with Lord Warwick, who was known as "the Kingmaker." Warwick turned against King Edward IV. William Herbert and his brother Richard were accused of being "evil advisers" to the King. They were captured and executed by Warwick in Northampton after the Battle of Edgcote in 1469.

William Herbert's Family

William Herbert married Anne Devereux. They had many children together.

Herbert's Children

• William Herbert, 2nd Earl of Pembroke (born 1451, died 1491).
• Sir Walter Herbert (born about 1452, died 1507). He married Lady Anne Stafford.
• Sir George Herbert of St. Julians.
• Philip Herbert of Lanyhangel.
• Cecilie Herbert.
• Maud Herbert. She married Henry Percy, 4th Earl of Northumberland.
• Katherine Herbert. She married George Grey, 2nd Earl of Kent.
• Anne Herbert. She married John Grey, 1st Baron Grey of Powis.
• Isabel Herbert. She married Sir Thomas Cokesey.
• Margaret Herbert. She married Thomas Talbot, 2nd Viscount Lisle, and then Sir Henry Bodringham.

William Herbert also had three sons who were born outside of marriage:

• Sir Richard Herbert of Ewyas. He was the father of another William Herbert, who also became an Earl of Pembroke.
• Sir George Herbert.
• Sir William Herbert of Troye.

See Also

• The White Queen (miniseries)]