William de Beauchamp (died 1260) facts for kids

William de Beauchamp was an important person in England a long time ago, around the 1200s. He was a judge and a 'high sheriff', which was like a top law enforcer for a region. He lived from about 1186 to 1260.

Early Life and Family

William de Beauchamp was born around 1186. His father was Simon de Beauchamp, who lived from about 1145 to 1207. His mother's name was Isabel. We don't know much about Isabel's family.

William later married a woman named Ida Longespee. Her father was William Longespée, who was the 3rd Earl of Salisbury. Her mother was Ela, who was the Countess of Salisbury. William and Ida had several children. Their oldest son was also named William.

A Baron During the Magna Carta Time

William de Beauchamp was involved in some important events in English history. He joined military trips to Ireland in 1210 and to Poitiers in 1214.

In 1215, he joined a group of powerful nobles, called barons, who were unhappy with King John. This was the start of the First Barons' War. William even hosted these rebellious barons at his home, Bedford Castle. Because he joined the rebels, the Pope at the time, Pope Innocent III, officially removed him from the church. This was a serious punishment back then.

Key Military Actions

William de Beauchamp was captured during a big fight called the Battle of Lincoln on May 20, 1217. After this, he made peace with the government.

Before this battle, he had lost his home, Bedford Castle, to another powerful person named Falkes de Breauté in 1215. This created a strange situation: Breauté was given the castle, but William still owned the land around it.

Later, when Falkes de Breauté lost his power, Bedford Castle was attacked and partly destroyed by the king's orders. However, William de Beauchamp was allowed to build a new home inside the castle grounds.

In 1233, William was part of a royal group that was surprised and attacked by Richard Marshal. William de Beauchamp was also appointed as a Baron of the Exchequer in 1234 and again in 1237. This meant he helped manage the country's money and legal matters.

Other Important Jobs

Besides being a judge, William de Beauchamp held other important positions. In 1236, he served as the Sheriff of Buckinghamshire and Bedfordshire. A sheriff was a very important official who kept law and order in a county.

That same year, when Eleanor of Provence became queen, William de Beauchamp had a special role. He served as an almoner, which meant he was in charge of giving money or food to poor people on behalf of the queen.

Later Life and Legacy

William de Beauchamp passed away in 1260. He left behind his son, also named William, and five other children. His life shows how important people like him were in shaping England during the 13th century.