William le Gros, Earl of York facts for kids

William le Gros (died 20 August 1179) was an important noble in both England and France during the 1100s. He was known by a few different names, like William le Gras and William d'Aumale. He held the title of Earl of York and was also the Lord of Holderness in England. In France, he was the Count of Aumale.

William was the oldest son of Stephen, Count of Aumale, and his mother was Hawise.

Early Life and Rise to Power

William started to become known in 1136. He was mentioned in two official documents signed by King Stephen. At this time, he was called Willelmus de Albamarla, but he wasn't yet an earl.

The Battle of the Standard

William showed great bravery and skill at the Battle of the Standard in 1138. This was a big battle fought near Northallerton in Yorkshire. Because of his courage and help in winning the battle, King Stephen rewarded him by making him the Earl of York. This was a very important title, giving him power over a large area, except for Richmondshire.

Challenges During The Anarchy

William was loyal to King Stephen. He was with the King when Stephen was defeated at Lincoln on 2 February 1141. This was during a time in English history called the Anarchy, when there was a lot of fighting over who should be king.

Later, when King Henry II came to power, William faced some trouble. His castle, Scarborough Castle, was taken away from him. This happened because he had built parts of the castle without getting the King's permission during the chaotic time of The Anarchy.

Founding Abbeys

William le Gros was also known for starting new religious places.

Meaux Abbey

In 1150, he founded the Abbey of Meaux in East Riding of Yorkshire. Abbeys were important centers for monks, prayer, and learning in those days.

Thornton Abbey

He also founded Thornton Abbey in Lincolnshire in 1139. When he died on August 20, 1179, he was buried inside Thornton Abbey, the very place he had helped create.

Family and Legacy

William le Gros married Cicely, who was known as the Lady of Skipton. She was the daughter of William Fitz-Duncan and Alice, Lady of Skipton. Cicely brought a lot of land and wealth to their marriage, including large estates as the "lady of Harewood."

William and Cicely did not have any sons. They had one daughter, Hawise (who died on March 11, 1214). Since William had no male heir, Hawise inherited his important titles. She became the Countess of Aumale in France and the Lady of Holderness in England.

Hawise's Marriages

Hawise married three times, and each of her husbands gained the title of Count of Aumale through her.

• Her first marriage was on January 14, 1180, to William de Mandeville, 3rd Earl of Essex. He passed away without having any children.
• Her second marriage, after July 3, 1190, was to William de Forz, who was a crusader. They had a son who became her heir and took over her titles after her.
• Her third marriage was arranged by King Richard I, who gave her in marriage to Baldwin of Bethune.