William de Mohun, 1st Earl of Somerset facts for kids

William de Mohun of Dunster (born around 1090, died around 1155) was an important person in English history. He was the second feudal baron of Dunster, which means he was a powerful landowner who held his land directly from the king. William was a strong supporter of Empress Matilda during a big war against King Stephen. Because of his fierce loyalty and fighting skills, people called him the "Scourge of the West."

Who Was William de Mohun?

William de Mohun was the son of another important person, also named William de Moion. His father was a lord, or "seigneur," of a place called Moyon, near Saint-Lô. William's father also held a significant job as the High Sheriff of Somerset in 1084. This meant he was in charge of law and order for the county.

Fighting in the Civil War

England faced a difficult time during a civil war between Empress Matilda and King Stephen. This war was about who should rule England. William de Mohun was a very loyal supporter of Empress Matilda.

King Stephen once tried to capture William's castle at Dunster. However, the castle was very strong and hard to attack. So, King Stephen decided to leave one of his commanders, Henry de Tracy, to surround the castle and try to starve William out. This is called a siege.

Becoming an Earl

In 1141, Empress Matilda gave William de Mohun the special title of Earl of Somerset. This was a very high honor, making him one of the most important nobles in the land. In a document for a new church called a priory in Bruton, William even signed his name as "Willielmus de Moyne, comes Somersetensis," which means "William de Mohun, Earl of Somerset."

However, this title was only recognized by Empress Matilda. Neither King Stephen nor Matilda's son, Henry II, who later became king, accepted William as an Earl. Because of this, William's children and grandchildren did not use the title of Earl of Somerset.

William's Family

William de Mohun, who was known as the Earl of Somerset, married a woman named Agnes de Gaunt. Her parents were Walter de Gaunt and Maud of Brittany. Maud's father was Stephen, Count of Tréguier, who was also the 3rd Lord of Richmond.