William Oldhall facts for kids
Sir William Oldhall (born around 1390, died 1460) was an English soldier and a supporter of the House of York. He held an important job as the Speaker of the House of Commons of England between 1450 and 1451. The House of Commons was a key part of England's government, similar to how parliaments work today.
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A Life of Service and Adventure
William Oldhall was born around 1390 in Norfolk, England. His father, Sir Edmund Oldhall, was also an important person who served as Sheriff of Norfolk and Suffolk two times.
Early Military Career
When he was younger, William Oldhall was an esquire, which was a knight's assistant. He served under Thomas Beaufort, a powerful duke. William was part of the siege of Rouen in France from 1418 to 1419. This was a long battle to capture the city.
He also fought under Thomas Montacute, 4th Earl of Salisbury in 1423 to help the town of Crevant. He became a knight at the Battle of Verneuil on August 17, 1424. After this, he was made the seneschal of Normandy, which meant he was a chief officer in charge of the region. He continued to show bravery in battles in Maine and Anjou, and was put in charge of important castles.
Working for the Duke of York
In 1440, Sir William Oldhall became a close advisor to Richard of York, 3rd Duke of York. He was the Duke's chamberlain, which was a high-ranking position in his household. He also helped manage some of the Duke's lands.
Sir William was with the Duke of York in Wales in September 1450. Soon after, he was chosen to represent Hertfordshire in the English Parliament. On November 9, 1450, he was elected as the Speaker of the House of Commons. This meant he was in charge of leading the discussions and debates in Parliament.
Challenges and Later Life
Sir William faced some difficult times because of his support for the Duke of York. In 1452, he was accused of being involved in a rebellion. He was found guilty and lost his legal rights. He sought safety in a special church area called a sanctuary.
However, after the First Battle of St Albans in 1455, he was set free and his legal rights were given back. He was again accused in 1459 for supporting another rebellion by the Yorkists. But when Edward IV of England became king, this accusation was removed. Sir William Oldhall passed away in London in November 1460.
His Homes and Family
Besides his family lands in Norfolk, Sir William Oldhall also bought estates in Hertfordshire. On one of these estates, called Hunsdon, he built a large brick mansion that looked like a castle. This impressive house later became a royal residence for kings and queens, including Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. Today, it is known as Hunsdon House.
Sir William Oldhall was married to Margaret, the daughter of William Willoughby, 5th Baron Willoughby de Eresby. They had one daughter named Mary. His brother, Edmund Oldhall, was also an important person who became a Bishop.
