William de Aldeburgh, 1st Baron Aldeburgh facts for kids

William de Aldeburgh, 1st Baron Aldeburgh, was an important English nobleman who lived in the 1300s. He is best known for building the famous Harewood Castle. He passed away on October 1, 1387.

William's father was Ivo de Aldeburgh, a brave soldier who fought in the wars against Scotland. Ivo held important positions, like being a sheriff and a castle warden. He even helped talk with Robert the Bruce, a Scottish king.

After his father died, William inherited lands and castles. These had been given to his father by Edward Balliol, who was trying to become King of Scotland. William also became a close friend and supporter of Edward Balliol, just like his father. Balliol gave William even more lands, including several important areas in Scotland.

Building Harewood Castle

William de Aldeburgh married Elizabeth, the daughter of John, 2nd Baron Lisle. This marriage brought him new lands in Yorkshire, England. One of these places was where Harewood Castle now stands.

In 1366, William received special permission to build a fortified castle. This permission was called a "licence to crenellate." He tore down older buildings on the site and started building Harewood Castle. The castle is still there today, though it is now a ruin.

William and Elizabeth had three children: a son also named William, and two daughters, Elizabeth and Sybill. His daughters later married into other important families.

A Nobleman's Life

In 1371, William de Aldeburgh was called to join the Parliament, which is like a government meeting. This made him the first Baron Aldeburgh. He continued to be part of Parliament until 1386.

William de Aldeburgh died in 1387. His son, William, became the second Baron Aldeburgh. However, his son died a few years later without having any children. After that, the title of Baron Aldeburgh was shared among the families of William's daughters. Many years later, one of his descendants was Lionel Duckett, who became the Lord Mayor of London in 1572.

Images for kids

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  Brass of Sir William de Aldeburgh at Aldborough, Yorkshire