http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hugh_Bigod,_1st_Earl_of_Norfolk

Justiciar of England

Hugh Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk (1095 - 1177) was born in Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire, England.

He was the second son of Roger Bigod (also known as Roger Bigot) (d. 1107), Sheriff of Norfolk, who founded the Bigod name in England. Hugh Bigod became a controversial figure in history, known for his frequent switching of loyalties and hasty reactions towards measures of authority.

Early years

Hugh inherited large estates in East Anglia on the death of his brother William, who perished without issue in the sinking of the White Ship on 26 November 1120. He succeeded his aunt Albreda – and by extension, her eldest brother Berengar – as heir both to Berengar's tenancy-in-chief in Lincolnshire and the Norman lands of Robert de Tosny of Belvoirwas. He became Constable of Norwich Castle and Governor of the City of Norwich in 1122. He enjoyed the favour of Henry I. [edit] During King Stephen's reign

At first a supporter of Stephen of Blois during this king's struggle with the empress Matilda. His initiation in history was on the death of Henry I in 1135, when Maud expected to succeed to the throne of England, but her cousin, Stephen of Blois usurped the throne, breaking an oath he had previously made to defend her rights. It was Bigod who claimed that Henry I (Maud's father, and Stephen's uncle) intended for Stephen to become king at the expense of the empress. Civil War resulted when in 1139 Maud could command the military strength necessary to challenge Stephen within his own realm. Maud's greatest triumph came in Feb. 1141, when her forces defeated and captured King Stephen; he was made a prisoner and effectively deposed. Her advantage lasted only until July of that year, and she released Stephen in Dec. In 1147, Maud was finally forced to return to France, following the death of Robert of Gloucester, her strongest supporter and half-brother.

King Stephen had initially kept his followers together, but in 1136 Stephen was stricken with sickness. A lethargy fastened on him and the report of his death was quickly spread abroad. A rising of the turbulent barons necessarily followed, and Bigod was the first to take up arms. He seized and held Norwich; but Stephen, quickly recovering laid siege to the city and Hugh was compelled to surrender. Acting with unusual clemency, Stephen spared the rebel, who for a short time remained faithful. In 1140 the Earl is said to have declared for the empress, yet early in the next year he is in the ranks of Stephen's army fighting in the disastrous First Battle of Lincoln, after which the Earl deserted him and assumed a position of armed neutrality during the civil war, sometimes called 'General Anarchy'.

Later, the disagreement between King Stephen and Archbishop Theobald in 1148 created yet another scenario for Hugh Bigod to come forward; this time, he sided with the archbishop, and received him in his Castle of Framlingham, but joined with others in achieving a reconciliation.

Rise of King Henry II

Five years later, in 1153, when Henry, Duke of Normandy, soon to be King Henry II (r. 1154–89), landed in England to assert his claim to the throne, Bigod vested his interests with the rising power, and held out in Ipswich against Stephen's forces, while Henry II, on the other side, laid siege to Stamford. Both places fell. In the critical state of his fortunes Stephen was in no position to punish the rebel. Negotiations were also going on between the two parties, and Hugh again eluded retaliation.

On Henry II's accession in December 1154, Bigod at once received confirmation of the possession of his earldom and stewardship by charter issued apparently in January of the next year. The first years of the new reign were spent in restoring order to the shattered kingdom, and in breaking the power of the independent barons, which had grown out of control during King Stephen's reign.

It was not before long that Bigod became agitated under the rule of law initiated by Henry. He grew restless with measures such as the scutage, a fee paid by vassals in lieu of military service, which became the central feature of Henry II's military system of operation by 1159. The Earl showed signs of resistance, but was at once put down. In 1157 Henry II marched into the eastern counties and received the earl's submission.

After this incident Hugh Bigod makes no significant appearances in the chronicles for some time; he is named among those who had been excommunicated by Becket, in consequence of his retention of lands belonging to the monastery of Pentney in Norfolk.

The revolt of 1173

   Main article: Revolt of 1173–1174

In 1173 the young crowned prince Henry (also known as Henry the Young King), raised a revolt against his father, Henry II. This gave Hugh Bigod, yet another chance for rebellion, along with the league of the English barons with the kings of France and Scotland in his favour. He at once became a leader in the cause, perhaps eager to revive the feudal power, which Henry II had curtailed. In addition to the fact that the inevitable conflict, as far as England was concerned, centered round his possessions. The custody of Norwich Castle was promised by the young prince as his reward.

The king's energy and good fortune were equal to the occasion. While he held in check his rebel vassals in France, the loyal barons in England defeated his enemies there. Robert de Beaumont, 3rd Earl of Leicester (d.1190) landed at Walton, in Suffolk, on 29 September 1173 and marched to Framlingham, joining forces with Hugh. Together they besieged and took the castle of Hagenet in Suffolk on 13 October, held by Randal de Broc for the crown. But the Earl of Leicester was defeated and taken prisoner setting out from Framlingham at Fornham, St. Genevieve, near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk by the justiciar, Richard de Luci and other barons. These, then turned their arms against Earl Hugh, not strong enough to fight, he opened negotiations with his assailants. It is said he bought them off, and at the same time secured a safe passage home for the Flemings in his service.

Final days

Though defeated and compelled to surrender his castles, Bigod kept his lands and his earldom, and lived at peace with Henry II until his death reportedly in 1177, in Palestine.

It should be noted, however, that on 1 March 1177, his son Roger Bigod appealed to the king on a dispute with his stepmother. Hugh being dead at this time, the date of his death is fixed 'ante caput jejunii', (i.e. before March 9th). If, then, he died in Palestine, his death must have taken place in the preceding year, 1176, to allow time for the arrival of the news in England. Henry II took advantage of Roger's appeal to seize upon the late Earl's treasure. He possessed vast estates, which he inherited, and was also the recipient of the third penny levied in the county of Norfolk.

Marriage and family

He married twice.

   * Before 1140 he married Juliane de Vere (died c.1199) probably born in Essex, England. She was the daughter of Aubrey de Vere II and Adeliza de Clare, the daughter of Gilbert Fitz Richard de Clare, 2nd Earl of Clare. Their marriage was dissolved before 1168. Their son:

o Roger Bigod, 2nd Earl of Norfolk (b. c. 1144-1221).
* His second wife was Gundreda (c.1135–1200), daughter of Roger de Beaumont, 2nd Earl of Warwick. They had two children:
o Hugh Bigod (b. circa 1156)
o William Hugh Bigod (b.1168)
=-----------------------------= http://fmg.ac/Projects/MedLands/ENGLISH%20NOBILITY%20MEDIEVAL.htm#_...

Two brothers, one sister, parents not known:

1. ROGER Bigod (-1107, bur Thetford[905]). Domesday Book records “Roger Bigod” holding numerous properties in Norfolk and Suffolk[906]. "…Rogerus Bigotus…" subscribed a charter dated Sep 1101 under which Bishop Herbert donated property to Norwich priory[907]. "…Rogeri de Bigot…" subscribed a charter dated 14 Sep 1101 under which Henry I King of England donated property to Bath St Peter[908]. “Rogerus Bygot” founded Thetford Priory, with the advice of “…uxoris meæ Adeliciæ”, by undated charter dated to the reign of King Henry I[909]. The Annals of Bermondsey which record the death in 1107 of “Rogerus Bigod, principalis fundator monasterii Beatæ Mariæ Thetfordiæ”[910].

[m firstly ADELAIS, daughter of ---. The Liber Vitæ of Durham lists (in order) "Rodgerus Bigodus, Atheles uxor eius, Willelmus filius eorum"[911]. “Willielmus Bigot, dapifer regis Anglorum” donated property to Thetford Priory, for the souls of “patris mei Rogerii Bigoti et matris meæ Adelidis” and for the salvation of “fratris mei Hugonis et sororum mearum”, by undated charter dated to the reign of King Henry I[912]. The Complete Peerage[913] states that the wording of this charter shows that Adelais, mother of William, was deceased at the time, and must therefore have been a different person from Adelise de Tosny, Roger Bigod's [second] wife, who was recorded as alive in 1136. However, the question is open to debate as “pro anima” clauses are often difficult to interpret accurately.]

m [secondly] (before [1100]%29 ADELISE de Tosny, daughter of ROBERT de Tosny Lord of Belvoir & his wife Adelais --- (-after 1136[914]). Her parentage is indicated by the 1130 Pipe Roll which records "Adeliz uxor Rogi Big…tra patris sui de Belueder" in Lincolnshire[915], which also indicates that Adelise succeeded her sister Albreda in the Belvoir estates of their father. It is also indicated by the charter dated 23 Apr [1430] under which her descendant “Thomas dominus de Ros, de Hamelake, de Trussebout et de Beavoir” confirmed the possessions of Belvoir priory, Lincolnshire made by "antecessores nostros…Robertum de Toteneio, Willielmum de Toteneyo filium suum, Agnetem de Toteneio filiam dicti Roberti de Toteneyo, Henricum de Rya filium Huberto de Rya, Agnetem de Toteneyo, Willielmum de Albeneio primum, Willielmum de Albeneio secundum, Willielmum de Albeneio tertium, Willielmum de Albeneio quartum, Ywynum de Albeneyo, Heliam de Albeneyo et uxores eorundem, Isabellam filiam domini Willielmi de Albeneio quæ fuit uxor domini de Ros, domini de Beauvoire et de Hamelake"[916], the connection between Robert de Tosny Lord of Belvoir, father of Alice, being established through the marriage of her daughter Cecilia to William de Albini Brito. "Rogerius Bigot…et uxoris mee Adalicie" donated the church of Thetford to Cluny dated [1100][917]. “Rogerus Bygot” founded Thetford Priory, with the advice of “…uxoris meæ Adeliciæ”, by undated charter dated to the reign of King Henry I[918].

Roger & his [first] wife had one child: a) WILLIAM Bigod (-drowned off Barfleur, Normandy 25 Nov 1120). The Liber Vitæ of Durham lists (in order) "Rodgerus Bigodus, Atheles uxor eius, Willelmus filius eorum"[919]. He succeeded his father in 1107 as Lord of Framlingham, Suffolk. “Willielmus Bigot, dapifer regis Anglorum” donated property to Thetford Priory, for the souls of “patris mei Rogerii Bigoti et matris meæ Adelidis” and for the salvation of “fratris mei Hugonis et sororum mearum”, by undated charter dated to the reign of King Henry I[920]. Sheriff of Suffolk 1116. The Continuator of Florence of Worcester names "…Willelmus Bigod…" among those drowned in the sinking of the White Ship[921].

Roger & his [second] wife had five children:

b) HUGH Bigod ([1095]-1177 before 9 Mar). “Willielmus Bigot, dapifer regis Anglorum” donated property to Thetford Priory, for the souls of “patris mei Rogerii Bigoti et matris meæ Adelidis” and for the salvation of “fratris mei Hugonis et sororum mearum”, by undated charter dated to the reign of King Henry I[922]. The Complete Peerage states that he was William’s brother “presumably of the half-blood”, the basis for the statement being explained on the previous page[923]. He succeeded his [half-]brother as Lord of Framlingham. King Stephen created him Earl of Norfolk in [Dec 1140/Jan 1141]. - see below.

c) HUMPHREY Bigod (-after [1112/13]). Royal chaplain of King Henry I and prebendary of Totenhall 1101 to [1112/13][924].

d) GUNNOR Bigod (-before [1137]). A charter of Hugh Bigod for Norwich Priory refers to property given by “his sister Gunnor”[925]. “Robert de Essex and Gunnora his wife, daughter of Roger Bigod” donated Fremingham church to Thetford priory, Norfolk for the souls of their ancestors and of "their son Henry on his birth-day"[926]. It is not clear from this extract whether Gunnor’s father was named in the original document. Her first marriage is indicated by the charter of King Henry II which confirmed donations to Thetford Priory, including the donation by “Gunnoræ matris Henrici de Exessa”[927]. “Rob Waster” donated "duos partes totius decimæ meæ de Wereslai" to St Neot’s, Huntingdonshire, for the soul of “Soeni de Essessa” and for the health of "domini mei Roberti filii prædicti Soeni…Gunnor uxoris suæ…uxoris meæ et Willielmi filii Gerei patris sui", by undated charter[928]. “Hamo de Sancto Claro” donated “ecclesie Sancte Marie Walcre” to Colchester St. John, for the souls of King Henry I, Queen Matilda, “Eudonis dapiferi et...mee et uxoris mee Gunnoris et anime Huberti filii mei”, by undated charter (dated to before 1119), witnessed by “Willelmo de Sancto Claro, Huberto de Sancto Claro...”[929]. Her second husband confirmed grants of her marriage portion in Brome for her soul[930]. m firstly ROBERT FitzSwein Lord of Rayleigh, Essex son of SWEIN FitzRobert & his wife --- (-[1132/40][931]). [932]m secondly as his first wife, HAMON de Saint-Clair, son of --- (-after 1139).

e) MATILDA Bigod (-[1121/33][933]). “Willielmus de Albeneyo, pincerna Henrici regis Anglorum” donated property to Wymondham priory, assisted by “uxoris suæ Matilidis filiæ…Rogeri Bigot” by undated charter, witnessed by “filii…eiusdem Willielmi, Nigellus et Oliverus”[934]. m GUILLAUME d'Aubigny "Pincerna", son of ROGER d'Aubigny & his wife Amice --- (-1139).

f) CECILY Bigod (-after 1136). Her parentage is indicated by the charter dated 23 Apr [1430] under which her descendant “Thomas dominus de Ros, de Hamelake, de Trussebout et de Beavoir” confirmed the possessions of Belvoir priory, Lincolnshire made by "antecessores nostros…Robertum de Toteneio, Willielmum de Toteneyo filium suum, Agnetem de Toteneio filiam dicti Roberti de Toteneyo, Henricum de Rya filium Huberto de Rya, Agnetem de Toteneyo, Willielmum de Albeneio primum, Willielmum de Albeneio secundum, Willielmum de Albeneio tertium, Willielmum de Albeneio quartum, Ywynum de Albeneyo, Heliam de Albeneyo et uxores eorundem, Isabellam filiam domini Willielmi de Albeneio quæ fuit uxor domini de Ros, domini de Beauvoire et de Hamelake"[935], the connection with Robert de Tosny Lord of Belvoir, her maternal grandfather, being established through her marriage. She inherited Belvoir from her mother. "…Willelmu[us] de Albinioc, Cecilia uxor eius, filii eius Willelmus, Rogerius, Matildis filia eius" are listed in the Liber Vitæ of Thorney abbey[936]. "Willielmus de Albeneio Brito…et Ceciliam uxorem meam et Willielmum filium meum" donated land to Thorney monastery, Cambridgeshire by undated charter, witnessed by "Rogero et Roberto filiis meis et Warino Ridel et Olivero et Iwan et Gaufrido nepotibus meis et Roberto Brito…”[937]. "Willielmus de Albenei Brito" donated "terram de Pipewell…de feodo de Bellovidere" to Thorney monastery, Cambridgeshire, with the consent of "Ceciliæ uxoris meæ et Willelmi filii mei", by undated charter, witnessed by "…tres nepotes mei, Oliverus filius Galfridi et Iwanus et Gaufridus de Cabivin…”[938]. "Willielmus de Albineio" donated "ecclesiam de Redmelina" to Belvoir monastery, Lincolnshire, with the consent of "Willielmi filii et hæredis mei et Matildis uxoris meæ et Ceciliæ matris meæ, necnon et Radulphi de Albinei fratris mei", by undated charter[939]. “Willielmus de Albineio” confirmed the possessions of Belvoir priory, Lincolnshire, with the consent of "Willielmi filii et hæredis mei et Matildis uxoris meæ et Ceciliæ matris meæ, necnon de Radulphi de Albineio fratris mei", by undated charter[940]. m WILLIAM de Albini Brito, son of MAIN & his wife Adelisa [de Bohun] (-after 1148). He owned part of the fee of Belvoir before Cecily's mother held it, the Complete Peerage concluding therefore that the marriage may have been arranged to settle rival claims[941].

Siblings of Roger:

2. WILLIAM Bigod (-after [1091]). Domesday Book records that the king gave land in Horsey, Norfolk to “Roger Bigod...when his brother William came from Apulia with Geoffrey Ridel”[942]. “Willelmus Bigut...” witnessed a charter dated to [1091] records the settlement of a challenge by "Ricardi fratris Widonis de Rupe", represented by "miles…nepos Gisleberti de Marlo…Compains", to the donation by "Hugo comes de Domno Martino" of "feodum…Vuidonis de Rupe" to the priory of Saint-Leu d’Esserent[943]. “Willelmi Bigot” donated “medietate terre de Fraituilla” to Saint-Wandrille, with the consent of “Guidone de Roca et filio eius Widone”, by charter dated to [1091/1120], witnessed by “Hugone sororio suo de Hosdenc et Ricardo Oliuier...”[944].

3. MATILDA (-after [1107]). “Willielmus Bigot, dapifer regis Anglorum” confirmed donations to Thetford Priory, including the donations of “terræ in Daneseia, de maritagio prædictæ Matildis” made by “Hugo de Hosdene et uxor eius Matildis”, by undated charter dated to the reign of King Henry I[945]. Her parentage is confirmed by the charter dated to [1091/1120] which records the donation made to Saint-Wandrille by “Willelmi Bigot”, witnessed by “Hugone sororio suo de Hosdenc...”[946]. The Complete Peerage dates this charter to [1107][947]. m HUGUES de Hosdenc, son of --- (-after [1107]).

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http://homepages.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~cousin/html/p375.htm#i7187
Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk
b. before 1107, d. 1177 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk|b. b 1107\nd. 1177|p375.htm#i7187|Roger "the Sheriff" le Bigod|b. c 1060?\nd. 1107|p357.htm#i7066|Adelicia de Tosny of Belvoir|b. c 1070?|p225.htm#i26070|Robert le Bigod|b. c 1035?|p101.htm#i12199||||Robert de Tosny of Belvoir|b. c 1020?|p225.htm#i26071|Adelais (?)||p243.htm#i27462| Father Roger "the Sheriff" le Bigod1 b. circa 1060?, d. 1107 Mother Adelicia de Tosny of Belvoir2 b. circa 1070?

    Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk was succeeded his aunt Albreda - and by extension, her eldest brother Berengar - as heir both to Berengar's tenancy-in-chief in Lincolnshire and the Norman lands of Robert de Tosny of Belvoir.2 He was born before 1107 at Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire, England. He was the son of Roger "the Sheriff" le Bigod and Adelicia de Tosny of Belvoir.1,2 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk was heir of his brother, who perished, without issue, in the sinking of the White Ship on 26 November 1119.3 He was steward to King Henry I before 1135.3 Arms: Or, a cross gules.4 He was created Earl of the East Angles, Norfolk and Suffolk, by King Stephen for his support in raising him to the throne in 1136.5 1st Earl Bigod of Norfolk and Suffolk at England between 1136 and 1174.5 He was styled "Earl of Norfolk" in 1140 at 6 Stephen.3 He married Juliane de Vere, Countess of Norfolk, daughter of Aubrey de Vere II and Adeliza de Clare, circa 1149 at England; His 1st.3 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk defended King Stephen throughout his reign, and gallanty defended, against the Empress Maud and her son, until he could no longer hold out for want of timely relief, the castle of Ipswich before 1154 at Suffolk, England.3 He married Gudred (?) circa 1155; His 2nd.3 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk was gained the considerable favor of King Henry II, being re-created Earl of Norfolk, by charter, dated at Northampton, and by the same instrument obtaining a grant of the office of steward after 1155.3 He was shown holding the fee of his aunt, Albrede de Insula in 1166.2 (1165/66) In the 12 Henry II certified his knight's fees to be one hundred and twenty-five "de veteri feoffamento" and thirty-five "de novo" upon the occasion of the marriage of the king's daughter.3 The Great Rebellion: Henry II versus his heir, Henry "the Young King", his two older brothers, the Earl of Leicester, the King of Scots, the King of France, and the Count of Flanders. In 1172/73 at 19 Henry II.6,7 He was a witness where Robert III de Beaumont, 3rd Earl of Leicester incited an insurrection against Henry II in support of the king's son (whom Henry himself had crowned) Henry "the Young King" in 1172/73 at 19 Henry II.3 (1172/73) In the 19 Henry II, sided, all the favor of Henry II notwithstanding, with Robert, Earl of Leicester, (the husband of his cousin, Petronilla) in the insurrection incited by that nobleman in favor of the king's son (whom Henry himself had crowned) Henry "the Young King."3 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk was a witness where Henri "the Young King" d' Anjou fomented the Great Rebellion against his father with his two older brothers, the King of France, and the Count of Flanders, in 1172/73 at 19 Henry II.6 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk forced to pay, for his treasonous support of Prince Henry against Henry II, 1,000 marks, and surrender of his strongest castles after 1174.3 He went into the Holy Land with the Earl of Flanders before 1177.3 He died in 1177.3 Family 1 	Juliane de Vere, Countess of Norfolk b. circa 1129, d. 1200 Child	

* Roger le Bigod the Surety, Earl of Norfolk and Suffolk+ b. c 1150, d. 1220
Family 2 Gudred (?) b. circa 1135 Children

   * Hugh Bigod b. c 11563

   * William Bigod b. c 1158

---

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hugh_Bigod,_1st_Earl_of_Norfolk Hugh Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk (1095 - 1177) was born in Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire, England.

He was the second son of Roger Bigod (also known as Roger Bigot) (d. 1107), Sheriff of Norfolk, who founded the Bigod name in England. Hugh Bigod became a controversial figure in history, known for his frequent switching of loyalties and hasty reactions towards measures of authority.

Early years

Hugh inherited large estates in East Anglia on the death of his brother William, who perished without issue in the sinking of the White Ship on 26 November 1120. He succeeded his aunt Albreda – and by extension, her eldest brother Berengar – as heir both to Berengar's tenancy-in-chief in Lincolnshire and the Norman lands of Robert de Tosny of Belvoirwas. He became Constable of Norwich Castle and Governor of the City of Norwich in 1122. He enjoyed the favour of Henry I.

[edit] During King Stephen's reign

At first a supporter of Stephen of Blois during this king's struggle with the empress Matilda. His initiation in history was on the death of Henry I in 1135, when Maud expected to succeed to the throne of England, but her cousin, Stephen of Blois usurped the throne, breaking an oath he had previously made to defend her rights. It was Bigod who claimed that Henry I (Maud's father, and Stephen's uncle) intended for Stephen to become king at the expense of the empress. Civil War resulted when in 1139 Maud could command the military strength necessary to challenge Stephen within his own realm. Maud's greatest triumph came in Feb. 1141, when her forces defeated and captured King Stephen; he was made a prisoner and effectively deposed. Her advantage lasted only until July of that year, and she released Stephen in Dec. In 1147, Maud was finally forced to return to France, following the death of Robert of Gloucester, her strongest supporter and half-brother.

King Stephen had initially kept his followers together, but in 1136 Stephen was stricken with sickness. A lethargy fastened on him and the report of his death was quickly spread abroad. A rising of the turbulent barons necessarily followed, and Bigod was the first to take up arms. He seized and held Norwich; but Stephen, quickly recovering laid siege to the city and Hugh was compelled to surrender. Acting with unusual clemency, Stephen spared the rebel, who for a short time remained faithful. In 1140 the Earl is said to have declared for the empress, yet early in the next year he is in the ranks of Stephen's army fighting in the disastrous First Battle of Lincoln, after which the Earl deserted him and assumed a position of armed neutrality during the civil war, sometimes called 'General Anarchy'.

Later, the disagreement between King Stephen and Archbishop Theobald in 1148 created yet another scenario for Hugh Bigod to come forward; this time, he sided with the archbishop, and received him in his Castle of Framlingham, but joined with others in achieving a reconciliation.

[edit] Rise of King Henry II

Five years later, in 1153, when Henry, Duke of Normandy, soon to be King Henry II (r. 1154–89), landed in England to assert his claim to the throne, Bigod vested his interests with the rising power, and held out in Ipswich against Stephen's forces, while Henry II, on the other side, laid siege to Stamford. Both places fell. In the critical state of his fortunes Stephen was in no position to punish the rebel. Negotiations were also going on between the two parties, and Hugh again eluded retaliation.

On Henry II's accession in December 1154, Bigod at once received confirmation of the possession of his earldom and stewardship by charter issued apparently in January of the next year. The first years of the new reign were spent in restoring order to the shattered kingdom, and in breaking the power of the independent barons, which had grown out of control during King Stephen's reign.

It was not before long that Bigod became agitated under the rule of law initiated by Henry. He grew restless with measures such as the scutage, a fee paid by vassals in lieu of military service, which became the central feature of Henry II's military system of operation by 1159. The Earl showed signs of resistance, but was at once put down. In 1157 Henry II marched into the eastern counties and received the earl's submission.

After this incident Hugh Bigod makes no significant appearances in the chronicles for some time; he is named among those who had been excommunicated by Becket, in consequence of his retention of lands belonging to the monastery of Pentney in Norfolk. [edit] The revolt of 1173

   Main article: Revolt of 1173–1174

In 1173 the young crowned prince Henry (also known as Henry the Young King), raised a revolt against his father, Henry II. This gave Hugh Bigod, yet another chance for rebellion, along with the league of the English barons with the kings of France and Scotland in his favour. He at once became a leader in the cause, perhaps eager to revive the feudal power, which Henry II had curtailed. In addition to the fact that the inevitable conflict, as far as England was concerned, centered round his possessions. The custody of Norwich Castle was promised by the young prince as his reward.

The king's energy and good fortune were equal to the occasion. While he held in check his rebel vassals in France, the loyal barons in England defeated his enemies there. Robert de Beaumont, 3rd Earl of Leicester (d.1190) landed at Walton, in Suffolk, on 29 September 1173 and marched to Framlingham, joining forces with Hugh. Together they besieged and took the castle of Hagenet in Suffolk on 13 October, held by Randal de Broc for the crown. But the Earl of Leicester was defeated and taken prisoner setting out from Framlingham at Fornham, St. Genevieve, near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk by the justiciar, Richard de Luci and other barons. These, then turned their arms against Earl Hugh, not strong enough to fight, he opened negotiations with his assailants. It is said he bought them off, and at the same time secured a safe passage home for the Flemings in his service. [edit] Final days

Though defeated and compelled to surrender his castles, Bigod kept his lands and his earldom, and lived at peace with Henry II until his death reportedly in 1177, in Palestine.

It should be noted, however, that on 1 March 1177, his son Roger Bigod appealed to the king on a dispute with his stepmother. Hugh being dead at this time, the date of his death is fixed 'ante caput jejunii', (i.e. before March 9th). If, then, he died in Palestine, his death must have taken place in the preceding year, 1176, to allow time for the arrival of the news in England. Henry II took advantage of Roger's appeal to seize upon the late Earl's treasure. He possessed vast estates, which he inherited, and was also the recipient of the third penny levied in the county of Norfolk. [edit] Marriage and family

He married twice.

   * Before 1140 he married Juliane de Vere (died c.1199) probably born in Essex, England. She was the daughter of Aubrey de Vere II and Adeliza de Clare, the daughter of Gilbert Fitz Richard de Clare, 2nd Earl of Clare. Their marriage was dissolved before 1168. Their son:

         o Roger Bigod, 2nd Earl of Norfolk (b. c. 1144-1221).

* His second wife was Gundreda (c.1135–1200), daughter of Roger de Beaumont, 2nd Earl of Warwick. They had two children:

         o Hugh Bigod (b. circa 1156)

         o William Hugh Bigod (b.1168)

http://homepages.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~cousin/html/p375.htm#i7187 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk b. before 1107, d. 1177 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk|b. b 1107\nd. 1177|p375.htm#i7187|Roger "the Sheriff" le Bigod|b. c 1060?\nd. 1107|p357.htm#i7066|Adelicia de Tosny of Belvoir|b. c 1070?|p225.htm#i26070|Robert le Bigod|b. c 1035?|p101.htm#i12199||||Robert de Tosny of Belvoir|b. c 1020?|p225.htm#i26071|Adelais (?)||p243.htm#i27462| Father Roger "the Sheriff" le Bigod1 b. circa 1060?, d. 1107 Mother Adelicia de Tosny of Belvoir2 b. circa 1070?

    Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk was succeeded his aunt Albreda - and by extension, her eldest brother Berengar - as heir both to Berengar's tenancy-in-chief in Lincolnshire and the Norman lands of Robert de Tosny of Belvoir.2 He was born before 1107 at Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire, England. He was the son of Roger "the Sheriff" le Bigod and Adelicia de Tosny of Belvoir.1,2 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk was heir of his brother, who perished, without issue, in the sinking of the White Ship on 26 November 1119.3 He was steward to King Henry I before 1135.3 Arms: Or, a cross gules.4 He was created Earl of the East Angles, Norfolk and Suffolk, by King Stephen for his support in raising him to the throne in 1136.5 1st Earl Bigod of Norfolk and Suffolk at England between 1136 and 1174.5 He was styled "Earl of Norfolk" in 1140 at 6 Stephen.3 He married Juliane de Vere, Countess of Norfolk, daughter of Aubrey de Vere II and Adeliza de Clare, circa 1149 at England; His 1st.3 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk defended King Stephen throughout his reign, and gallanty defended, against the Empress Maud and her son, until he could no longer hold out for want of timely relief, the castle of Ipswich before 1154 at Suffolk, England.3 He married Gudred (?) circa 1155; His 2nd.3 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk was gained the considerable favor of King Henry II, being re-created Earl of Norfolk, by charter, dated at Northampton, and by the same instrument obtaining a grant of the office of steward after 1155.3 He was shown holding the fee of his aunt, Albrede de Insula in 1166.2 (1165/66) In the 12 Henry II certified his knight's fees to be one hundred and twenty-five "de veteri feoffamento" and thirty-five "de novo" upon the occasion of the marriage of the king's daughter.3 The Great Rebellion: Henry II versus his heir, Henry "the Young King", his two older brothers, the Earl of Leicester, the King of Scots, the King of France, and the Count of Flanders. In 1172/73 at 19 Henry II.6,7 He was a witness where Robert III de Beaumont, 3rd Earl of Leicester incited an insurrection against Henry II in support of the king's son (whom Henry himself had crowned) Henry "the Young King" in 1172/73 at 19 Henry II.3 (1172/73) In the 19 Henry II, sided, all the favor of Henry II notwithstanding, with Robert, Earl of Leicester, (the husband of his cousin, Petronilla) in the insurrection incited by that nobleman in favor of the king's son (whom Henry himself had crowned) Henry "the Young King."3 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk was a witness where Henri "the Young King" d' Anjou fomented the Great Rebellion against his father with his two older brothers, the King of France, and the Count of Flanders, in 1172/73 at 19 Henry II.6 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk forced to pay, for his treasonous support of Prince Henry against Henry II, 1,000 marks, and surrender of his strongest castles after 1174.3 He went into the Holy Land with the Earl of Flanders before 1177.3 He died in 1177.3 Family 1 	Juliane de Vere, Countess of Norfolk b. circa 1129, d. 1200 Child	

* Roger le Bigod the Surety, Earl of Norfolk and Suffolk+ b. c 1150, d. 1220
Family 2 Gudred (?) b. circa 1135 Children

   * Hugh Bigod b. c 11563

   * William Bigod b. c 1158

---

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hugh_Bigod,_1st_Earl_of_Norfolk Hugh Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk (1095 - 1177) was born in Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire, England.

He was the second son of Roger Bigod (also known as Roger Bigot) (d. 1107), Sheriff of Norfolk, who founded the Bigod name in England. Hugh Bigod became a controversial figure in history, known for his frequent switching of loyalties and hasty reactions towards measures of authority. Early years

Hugh inherited large estates in East Anglia on the death of his brother William, who perished without issue in the sinking of the White Ship on 26 November 1120. He succeeded his aunt Albreda – and by extension, her eldest brother Berengar – as heir both to Berengar's tenancy-in-chief in Lincolnshire and the Norman lands of Robert de Tosny of Belvoirwas. He became Constable of Norwich Castle and Governor of the City of Norwich in 1122. He enjoyed the favour of Henry I. [edit] During King Stephen's reign

At first a supporter of Stephen of Blois during this king's struggle with the empress Matilda. His initiation in history was on the death of Henry I in 1135, when Maud expected to succeed to the throne of England, but her cousin, Stephen of Blois usurped the throne, breaking an oath he had previously made to defend her rights. It was Bigod who claimed that Henry I (Maud's father, and Stephen's uncle) intended for Stephen to become king at the expense of the empress. Civil War resulted when in 1139 Maud could command the military strength necessary to challenge Stephen within his own realm. Maud's greatest triumph came in Feb. 1141, when her forces defeated and captured King Stephen; he was made a prisoner and effectively deposed. Her advantage lasted only until July of that year, and she released Stephen in Dec. In 1147, Maud was finally forced to return to France, following the death of Robert of Gloucester, her strongest supporter and half-brother.

King Stephen had initially kept his followers together, but in 1136 Stephen was stricken with sickness. A lethargy fastened on him and the report of his death was quickly spread abroad. A rising of the turbulent barons necessarily followed, and Bigod was the first to take up arms. He seized and held Norwich; but Stephen, quickly recovering laid siege to the city and Hugh was compelled to surrender. Acting with unusual clemency, Stephen spared the rebel, who for a short time remained faithful. In 1140 the Earl is said to have declared for the empress, yet early in the next year he is in the ranks of Stephen's army fighting in the disastrous First Battle of Lincoln, after which the Earl deserted him and assumed a position of armed neutrality during the civil war, sometimes called 'General Anarchy'.

Later, the disagreement between King Stephen and Archbishop Theobald in 1148 created yet another scenario for Hugh Bigod to come forward; this time, he sided with the archbishop, and received him in his Castle of Framlingham, but joined with others in achieving a reconciliation. [edit] Rise of King Henry II

Five years later, in 1153, when Henry, Duke of Normandy, soon to be King Henry II (r. 1154–89), landed in England to assert his claim to the throne, Bigod vested his interests with the rising power, and held out in Ipswich against Stephen's forces, while Henry II, on the other side, laid siege to Stamford. Both places fell. In the critical state of his fortunes Stephen was in no position to punish the rebel. Negotiations were also going on between the two parties, and Hugh again eluded retaliation.

On Henry II's accession in December 1154, Bigod at once received confirmation of the possession of his earldom and stewardship by charter issued apparently in January of the next year. The first years of the new reign were spent in restoring order to the shattered kingdom, and in breaking the power of the independent barons, which had grown out of control during King Stephen's reign.

It was not before long that Bigod became agitated under the rule of law initiated by Henry. He grew restless with measures such as the scutage, a fee paid by vassals in lieu of military service, which became the central feature of Henry II's military system of operation by 1159. The Earl showed signs of resistance, but was at once put down. In 1157 Henry II marched into the eastern counties and received the earl's submission.

After this incident Hugh Bigod makes no significant appearances in the chronicles for some time; he is named among those who had been excommunicated by Becket, in consequence of his retention of lands belonging to the monastery of Pentney in Norfolk. [edit] The revolt of 1173

   Main article: Revolt of 1173–1174

In 1173 the young crowned prince Henry (also known as Henry the Young King), raised a revolt against his father, Henry II. This gave Hugh Bigod, yet another chance for rebellion, along with the league of the English barons with the kings of France and Scotland in his favour. He at once became a leader in the cause, perhaps eager to revive the feudal power, which Henry II had curtailed. In addition to the fact that the inevitable conflict, as far as England was concerned, centered round his possessions. The custody of Norwich Castle was promised by the young prince as his reward.

The king's energy and good fortune were equal to the occasion. While he held in check his rebel vassals in France, the loyal barons in England defeated his enemies there. Robert de Beaumont, 3rd Earl of Leicester (d.1190) landed at Walton, in Suffolk, on 29 September 1173 and marched to Framlingham, joining forces with Hugh. Together they besieged and took the castle of Hagenet in Suffolk on 13 October, held by Randal de Broc for the crown. But the Earl of Leicester was defeated and taken prisoner setting out from Framlingham at Fornham, St. Genevieve, near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk by the justiciar, Richard de Luci and other barons. These, then turned their arms against Earl Hugh, not strong enough to fight, he opened negotiations with his assailants. It is said he bought them off, and at the same time secured a safe passage home for the Flemings in his service. [edit] Final days

Though defeated and compelled to surrender his castles, Bigod kept his lands and his earldom, and lived at peace with Henry II until his death reportedly in 1177, in Palestine.

It should be noted, however, that on 1 March 1177, his son Roger Bigod appealed to the king on a dispute with his stepmother. Hugh being dead at this time, the date of his death is fixed 'ante caput jejunii', (i.e. before March 9th). If, then, he died in Palestine, his death must have taken place in the preceding year, 1176, to allow time for the arrival of the news in England. Henry II took advantage of Roger's appeal to seize upon the late Earl's treasure. He possessed vast estates, which he inherited, and was also the recipient of the third penny levied in the county of Norfolk. [edit] Marriage and family

He married twice.

   * Before 1140 he married Juliane de Vere (died c.1199) probably born in Essex, England. She was the daughter of Aubrey de Vere II and Adeliza de Clare, the daughter of Gilbert Fitz Richard de Clare, 2nd Earl of Clare. Their marriage was dissolved before 1168. Their son:

         o Roger Bigod, 2nd Earl of Norfolk (b. c. 1144-1221).

* His second wife was Gundreda (c.1135–1200), daughter of Roger de Beaumont, 2nd Earl of Warwick. They had two children:

         o Hugh Bigod (b. circa 1156)

         o William Hugh Bigod (b.1168)

http://homepages.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~cousin/html/p375.htm#i7187 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk b. before 1107, d. 1177 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk|b. b 1107\nd. 1177|p375.htm#i7187|Roger "the Sheriff" le Bigod|b. c 1060?\nd. 1107|p357.htm#i7066|Adelicia de Tosny of Belvoir|b. c 1070?|p225.htm#i26070|Robert le Bigod|b. c 1035?|p101.htm#i12199||||Robert de Tosny of Belvoir|b. c 1020?|p225.htm#i26071|Adelais (?)||p243.htm#i27462| Father Roger "the Sheriff" le Bigod1 b. circa 1060?, d. 1107 Mother Adelicia de Tosny of Belvoir2 b. circa 1070?

    Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk was succeeded his aunt Albreda - and by extension, her eldest brother Berengar - as heir both to Berengar's tenancy-in-chief in Lincolnshire and the Norman lands of Robert de Tosny of Belvoir.2 He was born before 1107 at Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire, England. He was the son of Roger "the Sheriff" le Bigod and Adelicia de Tosny of Belvoir.1,2 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk was heir of his brother, who perished, without issue, in the sinking of the White Ship on 26 November 1119.3 He was steward to King Henry I before 1135.3 Arms: Or, a cross gules.4 He was created Earl of the East Angles, Norfolk and Suffolk, by King Stephen for his support in raising him to the throne in 1136.5 1st Earl Bigod of Norfolk and Suffolk at England between 1136 and 1174.5 He was styled "Earl of Norfolk" in 1140 at 6 Stephen.3 He married Juliane de Vere, Countess of Norfolk, daughter of Aubrey de Vere II and Adeliza de Clare, circa 1149 at England; His 1st.3 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk defended King Stephen throughout his reign, and gallanty defended, against the Empress Maud and her son, until he could no longer hold out for want of timely relief, the castle of Ipswich before 1154 at Suffolk, England.3 He married Gudred (?) circa 1155; His 2nd.3 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk was gained the considerable favor of King Henry II, being re-created Earl of Norfolk, by charter, dated at Northampton, and by the same instrument obtaining a grant of the office of steward after 1155.3 He was shown holding the fee of his aunt, Albrede de Insula in 1166.2 (1165/66) In the 12 Henry II certified his knight's fees to be one hundred and twenty-five "de veteri feoffamento" and thirty-five "de novo" upon the occasion of the marriage of the king's daughter.3 The Great Rebellion: Henry II versus his heir, Henry "the Young King", his two older brothers, the Earl of Leicester, the King of Scots, the King of France, and the Count of Flanders. In 1172/73 at 19 Henry II.6,7 He was a witness where Robert III de Beaumont, 3rd Earl of Leicester incited an insurrection against Henry II in support of the king's son (whom Henry himself had crowned) Henry "the Young King" in 1172/73 at 19 Henry II.3 (1172/73) In the 19 Henry II, sided, all the favor of Henry II notwithstanding, with Robert, Earl of Leicester, (the husband of his cousin, Petronilla) in the insurrection incited by that nobleman in favor of the king's son (whom Henry himself had crowned) Henry "the Young King."3 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk was a witness where Henri "the Young King" d' Anjou fomented the Great Rebellion against his father with his two older brothers, the King of France, and the Count of Flanders, in 1172/73 at 19 Henry II.6 Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk forced to pay, for his treasonous support of Prince Henry against Henry II, 1,000 marks, and surrender of his strongest castles after 1174.3 He went into the Holy Land with the Earl of Flanders before 1177.3 He died in 1177.3 Family 1 	Juliane de Vere, Countess of Norfolk b. circa 1129, d. 1200 Child	

* Roger le Bigod the Surety, Earl of Norfolk and Suffolk+ b. c 1150, d. 1220
Family 2 Gudred (?) b. circa 1135 Children

   * Hugh Bigod b. c 11563

   * William Bigod b. c 1158

---

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hugh_Bigod,_1st_Earl_of_Norfolk

---

Hugh Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Hugh Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk (1095 - 1177) was born in Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire, England. He was the second son of Roger Bigod (also known as Roger Bigot) (d. 1107), Sheriff of Norfolk, who founded the Bigod name in England. Hugh Bigod became a controversial figure in history, known for his frequent switching of loyalties and hasty reactions towards measures of authority.

Early years

Hugh inherited large estates in East Anglia on the death of his brother William, who perished without issue in the sinking of the White Ship on November 26, 1120. He succeeded his aunt Albreda - and by extension, her eldest brother Berengar - as heir both to Berengar's tenancy-in-chief in Lincolnshire and the Norman lands of Robert de Tosny of Belvoirwas. He became Constable of Norwich Castle and Governor of the City of Norwich in 1122. He enjoyed the favour of Henry I. [edit]During King Stephen's reign

At first a supporter of Stephen of Blois during this king's struggle with the empress Matilda. His initiation in history was on the death of Henry I in 1135, when Maud expected to succeed to the throne of England, but her cousin, Stephen of Blois usurped the throne, breaking an oath he had previously made to defend her rights. It was Bigod who claimed that Henry I (Maud's father, and Stephen's uncle) intended for Stephen to become king at the expense of the empress. Civil War resulted when in 1139 Maud could command the military strength necessary to challenge Stephen within his own realm. Maud's greatest triumph came in Feb. 1141, when her forces defeated and captured King Stephen; he was made a prisoner and effectively deposed. Her advantage lasted only until July of that year, and she released Stephen in Dec. In 1147, Maud was finally forced to return to France, following the death of Robert of Gloucester, her strongest supporter and half-brother. King Stephen had initially kept his followers together, but in 1136 Stephen was stricken with sickness. A lethargy fastened on him and the report of his death was quickly spread abroad. A rising of the turbulent barons necessarily followed, and Bigod was the first to take up arms. He seized and held Norwich; but Stephen, quickly recovering laid siege to the city and Hugh was compelled to surrender. Acting with unusual clemency, Stephen spared the rebel, who for a short time remained faithful. In 1140 the Earl is said to have declared for the empress, yet early in the next year he is in the ranks of Stephen's army fighting in the disastrous First Battle of Lincoln, after which the Earl deserted him and assumed a position of armed neutrality during the civil war, sometimes called 'General Anarchy'. Later, the disagreement between King Stephen and Archbishop Theobald in 1148 created yet another scenario for Hugh Bigod to come forward; this time, he sided with the archbishop, and received him in his Castle of Framlingham, but joined with others in achieving a reconciliation. [edit]Rise of King Henry II

Five years later, in 1153, when Henry, Duke of Normandy, soon to be King Henry II (r. 1154–89), landed in England to assert his claim to the throne, Bigod vested his interests with the rising power, and held out in Ipswich against Stephen's forces, while Henry II, on the other side, laid siege to Stamford. Both places fell. In the critical state of his fortunes Stephen was in no position to punish the rebel. Negotiations were also going on between the two parties, and Hugh again eluded retaliation. On Henry II's accession in December 1154, Bigod at once received confirmation of the possession of his earldom and stewardship by charter issued apparently in January of the next year. The first years of the new reign were spent in restoring order to the shattered kingdom, and in breaking the power of the independent barons, which had grown out of control during King Stephen's reign. It was not before long that Bigod became agitated under the rule of law initiated by Henry. He grew restless with measures such as the scutage, a fee paid by vassals in lieu of military service, which became the central feature of Henry II's military system of operation by 1159. The Earl showed signs of resistance, but was at once put down. In 1157 Henry II marched into the eastern counties and received the earl's submission. After this incident Hugh Bigod makes no significant appearances in the chronicles for some time; he is named among those who had been excommunicated by Becket, in consequence of his retention of lands belonging to the monastery of Pentney in Norfolk. [edit]The revolt of 1173

Main article: Revolt of 1173-1174 In 1173 the young crowned prince Henry (also known as Henry the Young King), raised a revolt against his father, Henry II. This gave Hugh Bigod, yet another chance for rebellion, along with the league of the English barons with the kings of France and Scotland in his favor. He at once became a leader in the cause, perhaps eager to revive the feudal power, which Henry II had curtailed. In addition to the fact that the inevitable conflict, as far as England was concerned, centered round his possessions. The custody of Norwich Castle was promised by the young prince as his reward. The king's energy and good fortune were equal to the occasion. While he held in check his rebel vassals in France, the loyal barons in England defeated his enemies there. Robert de Beaumont, 3rd Earl of Leicester (d.1190) landed at Walton, in Suffolk, on September 29, 1173 and marched to Framlingham, joining forces with Hugh. Together they besieged and took the castle of Hagenet in Suffolk on October 13, held by Randal de Broc for the crown. But the Earl of Leices was defeated and taken prisoner setting out from Framlingham at Fornham, St. Genevieve, near Bury by the justiciar, Richard de Lucy and other barons. These, then turned their arms against Earl Hugh, not strong enough to fight, he opened negotiations with his assailants. It is said he bought them off, and at the same time secured a safe passage home for the Flemings in his service. [edit]Final days

Though defeated and compelled to surrender his castles, Bigod kept his lands and his earldom, and lived at peace with Henry II until his death reportedly in 1177, in Palestine. It should be noted, however, that on March 1st 1177, his son Roger Bigod appealed to the king on a dispute with his stepmother. Hugh being dead at this time, the date of his death is fixed 'ante caput jejunii', (i.e. before March 9th). If, then, he died in Palestine, his death must have taken place in the preceding year, 1176, to allow time for the arrival of the news in England. Henry II took advantage of Roger's appeal to seize upon the late Earl's treasure. He possessed vast estates, which he inherited, and was also the recipient of the third penny levied in the county of Norfolk. [edit]Marriage and family

He married twice. Before 1140 he married Juliane de Vere (died c.1199) probably born in Essex, England. She was the daughter of Aubrey de Vere II and Adeliza de Clare, the daughter of Gilbert Fitz Richard de Clare, 2nd Earl of Clare. Their marriage was dissolved before 1168. Their son: Roger Bigod (b. c. 1144-1221). His second wife was Gundreda Warwick (c.1135–1200), daughter of Roger de Beaumont, 2nd Earl of Warwick. They had two children: Hugh Bigod (b. 1156) William Hugh Bigod (b.1168)

External links

A version of Hugh Bigod's life from The Dictionary of National Biographies Foundation for Medieval Genealogy on Hugh Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk

References

This article incorporates text from the Encyclopædia Britannica Eleventh Edition, a publication now in the public domain.

---

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hugh_Bigod,_1st_Earl_of_Norfolk

Hugh Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk (1095 - 1177) was born in Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire, England.

He was the second son of Roger Bigod (also known as Roger Bigot) (d. 1107), Sheriff of Norfolk, who founded the Bigod name in England. Hugh Bigod became a controversial figure in history, known for his frequent switching of loyalties and hasty reactions towards measures of authority.

Hugh inherited large estates in East Anglia on the death of his brother William, who perished without issue in the sinking of the White Ship on 26 November 1120. He succeeded his aunt Albreda – and by extension, her eldest brother Berengar – as heir both to Berengar's tenancy-in-chief in Lincolnshire and the Norman lands of Robert de Tosny of Belvoirwas. He became Constable of Norwich Castle and Governor of the City of Norwich in 1122. He enjoyed the favour of Henry I.

At first a supporter of Stephen of Blois during this king's struggle with the empress Matilda. His initiation in history was on the death of Henry I in 1135, when Maud expected to succeed to the throne of England, but her cousin, Stephen of Blois usurped the throne, breaking an oath he had previously made to defend her rights. It was Bigod who claimed that Henry I (Maud's father, and Stephen's uncle) intended for Stephen to become king at the expense of the empress. Civil War resulted when in 1139 Maud could command the military strength necessary to challenge Stephen within his own realm. Maud's greatest triumph came in Feb. 1141, when her forces defeated and captured King Stephen; he was made a prisoner and effectively deposed. Her advantage lasted only until July of that year, and she released Stephen in Dec. In 1147, Maud was finally forced to return to France, following the death of Robert of Gloucester, her strongest supporter and half-brother.

King Stephen had initially kept his followers together, but in 1136 Stephen was stricken with sickness. A lethargy fastened on him and the report of his death was quickly spread abroad. A rising of the turbulent barons necessarily followed, and Bigod was the first to take up arms. He seized and held Norwich; but Stephen, quickly recovering laid siege to the city and Hugh was compelled to surrender. Acting with unusual clemency, Stephen spared the rebel, who for a short time remained faithful. In 1140 the Earl is said to have declared for the empress, yet early in the next year he is in the ranks of Stephen's army fighting in the disastrous First Battle of Lincoln, after which the Earl deserted him and assumed a position of armed neutrality during the civil war, sometimes called 'General Anarchy'.

Later, the disagreement between King Stephen and Archbishop Theobald in 1148 created yet another scenario for Hugh Bigod to come forward; this time, he sided with the archbishop, and received him in his Castle of Framlingham, but joined with others in achieving a reconciliation.

Five years later, in 1153, when Henry, Duke of Normandy, soon to be King Henry II (r. 1154–89), landed in England to assert his claim to the throne, Bigod vested his interests with the rising power, and held out in Ipswich against Stephen's forces, while Henry II, on the other side, laid siege to Stamford. Both places fell. In the critical state of his fortunes, Stephen was in no position to punish the rebel. Negotiations were also going on between the two parties, and Hugh again eluded retaliation.

On Henry II's accession in December 1154, Bigod at once received confirmation of the possession of his earldom and stewardship by charter issued apparently in January of the next year. The first years of the new reign were spent in restoring order to the shattered kingdom, and in breaking the power of the independent barons, which had grown out of control during King Stephen's reign.

It was not before long that Bigod became agitated under the rule of law initiated by Henry. He grew restless with measures such as the scutage, a fee paid by vassals in lieu of military service, which became the central feature of Henry II's military system of operation by 1159. The Earl showed signs of resistance, but was at once put down. In 1157 Henry II marched into the eastern counties and received the earl's submission.

After this incident Hugh Bigod makes no significant appearances in the chronicles for some time; he is named among those who had been excommunicated by Becket, in consequence of his retention of lands belonging to the monastery of Pentney in Norfolk.

In 1173 the young crowned prince Henry (also known as Henry the Young King), raised a revolt against his father, Henry II. This gave Hugh Bigod, yet another chance for rebellion, along with the league of the English barons with the kings of France and Scotland in his favour. He at once became a leader in the cause, perhaps eager to revive the feudal power, which Henry II had curtailed. In addition to the fact that the inevitable conflict, as far as England was concerned, centered round his possessions. The custody of Norwich Castle was promised by the young prince as his reward.

The king's energy and good fortune were equal to the occasion. While he held in check his rebel vassals in France, the loyal barons in England defeated his enemies there. Robert de Beaumont, 3rd Earl of Leicester (d.1190) landed at Walton, in Suffolk, on 29 September 1173 and marched to Framlingham, joining forces with Hugh. Together they besieged and took the castle of Hagenet in Suffolk on 13 October, held by Randal de Broc for the crown. But the Earl of Leicester was defeated and taken prisoner setting out from Framlingham at Fornham, St. Genevieve, near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk by the justiciar, Richard de Luci and other barons. These, then turned their arms against Earl Hugh, not strong enough to fight, he opened negotiations with his assailants. It is said he bought them off, and at the same time secured a safe passage home for the Flemings in his service.

Though defeated and compelled to surrender his castles, Bigod kept his lands and his earldom, and lived at peace with Henry II until his death reportedly in 1177, in Palestine.

It should be noted, however, that on 1 March 1177, his son Roger Bigod appealed to the king on a dispute with his stepmother. Hugh being dead at this time, the date of his death is fixed 'ante caput jejunii', (i.e. before March 9th). If, then, he died in Palestine, his death must have taken place in the preceding year, 1176, to allow time for the arrival of the news in England. Henry II took advantage of Roger's appeal to seize upon the late Earl's treasure. He possessed vast estates, which he inherited, and was also the recipient of the third penny levied in the county of Norfolk.

He married twice.

Before 1140 he married Juliane de Vere (died c.1199) probably born in Essex, England. She was the daughter of Aubrey de Vere II and Adeliza de Clare, the daughter of Gilbert Fitz Richard de Clare, 2nd Earl of Clare. Their marriage was dissolved before 1168. Their son:

Roger Bigod, 2nd Earl of Norfolk (b. c. 1144-1221).

His second wife was Gundreda (c.1135–1200), daughter of Roger de Beaumont, 2nd Earl of Warwick. They had two children:

Hugh Bigod (b. circa 1156) William Hugh Bigod (b.1168)

---

Hugh Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk (1095 - 1177) was born in Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire, England.

He was the second son of Roger Bigod (also known as Roger Bigot) (d. 1107), Sheriff of Norfolk, who founded the Bigod name in England. Hugh Bigod became a controversial figure in history, known for his frequent switching of loyalties and hasty reactions towards measures of authority.

Contents [hide] 1 Early years 2 During King Stephen's reign 3 Rise of King Henry II 4 The revolt of 1173 5 Final days 6 Marriage and family 7 External links 8 References

[edit] Early years Hugh inherited large estates in East Anglia on the death of his brother William, who perished without issue in the sinking of the White Ship on 26 November 1120. He succeeded his aunt Albreda – and by extension, her eldest brother Berengar – as heir both to Berengar's tenancy-in-chief in Lincolnshire and the Norman lands of Robert de Tosny of Belvoirwas. He became Constable of Norwich Castle and Governor of the City of Norwich in 1122. He enjoyed the favour of Henry I.

[edit] During King Stephen's reign At first a supporter of Stephen of Blois during this king's struggle with the empress Matilda. His initiation in history was on the death of Henry I in 1135, when Maud expected to succeed to the throne of England, but her cousin, Stephen of Blois usurped the throne, breaking an oath he had previously made to defend her rights. It was Bigod who claimed that Henry I (Maud's father, and Stephen's uncle) intended for Stephen to become king at the expense of the empress. Civil War resulted when in 1139 Maud could command the military strength necessary to challenge Stephen within his own realm. Maud's greatest triumph came in Feb. 1141, when her forces defeated and captured King Stephen; he was made a prisoner and effectively deposed. Her advantage lasted only until July of that year, and she released Stephen in Dec. In 1147, Maud was finally forced to return to France, following the death of Robert of Gloucester, her strongest supporter and half-brother.

King Stephen had initially kept his followers together, but in 1136 Stephen was stricken with sickness. A lethargy fastened on him and the report of his death was quickly spread abroad. A rising of the turbulent barons necessarily followed, and Bigod was the first to take up arms. He seized and held Norwich; but Stephen, quickly recovering laid siege to the city and Hugh was compelled to surrender. Acting with unusual clemency, Stephen spared the rebel, who for a short time remained faithful. In 1140 the Earl is said to have declared for the empress, yet early in the next year he is in the ranks of Stephen's army fighting in the disastrous First Battle of Lincoln, after which the Earl deserted him and assumed a position of armed neutrality during the civil war, sometimes called 'General Anarchy'.

Later, the disagreement between King Stephen and Archbishop Theobald in 1148 created yet another scenario for Hugh Bigod to come forward; this time, he sided with the archbishop, and received him in his Castle of Framlingham, but joined with others in achieving a reconciliation.

[edit] Rise of King Henry II Five years later, in 1153, when Henry, Duke of Normandy, soon to be King Henry II (r. 1154–89), landed in England to assert his claim to the throne, Bigod vested his interests with the rising power, and held out in Ipswich against Stephen's forces, while Henry II, on the other side, laid siege to Stamford. Both places fell. In the critical state of his fortunes Stephen was in no position to punish the rebel. Negotiations were also going on between the two parties, and Hugh again eluded retaliation.

On Henry II's accession in December 1154, Bigod at once received confirmation of the possession of his earldom and stewardship by charter issued apparently in January of the next year. The first years of the new reign were spent in restoring order to the shattered kingdom, and in breaking the power of the independent barons, which had grown out of control during King Stephen's reign.

It was not before long that Bigod became agitated under the rule of law initiated by Henry. He grew restless with measures such as the scutage, a fee paid by vassals in lieu of military service, which became the central feature of Henry II's military system of operation by 1159. The Earl showed signs of resistance, but was at once put down. In 1157 Henry II marched into the eastern counties and received the earl's submission.

After this incident Hugh Bigod makes no significant appearances in the chronicles for some time; he is named among those who had been excommunicated by Becket, in consequence of his retention of lands belonging to the monastery of Pentney in Norfolk.

[edit] The revolt of 1173 Main article: Revolt of 1173–1174 In 1173 the young crowned prince Henry (also known as Henry the Young King), raised a revolt against his father, Henry II. This gave Hugh Bigod, yet another chance for rebellion, along with the league of the English barons with the kings of France and Scotland in his favour. He at once became a leader in the cause, perhaps eager to revive the feudal power, which Henry II had curtailed. In addition to the fact that the inevitable conflict, as far as England was concerned, centered round his possessions. The custody of Norwich Castle was promised by the young prince as his reward.

The king's energy and good fortune were equal to the occasion. While he held in check his rebel vassals in France, the loyal barons in England defeated his enemies there. Robert de Beaumont, 3rd Earl of Leicester (d.1190) landed at Walton, in Suffolk, on 29 September 1173 and marched to Framlingham, joining forces with Hugh. Together they besieged and took the castle of Hagenet in Suffolk on 13 October, held by Randal de Broc for the crown. But the Earl of Leicester was defeated and taken prisoner setting out from Framlingham at Fornham, St. Genevieve, near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk by the justiciar, Richard de Luci and other barons. These, then turned their arms against Earl Hugh, not strong enough to fight, he opened negotiations with his assailants. It is said he bought them off, and at the same time secured a safe passage home for the Flemings in his service.

[edit] Final days Though defeated and compelled to surrender his castles, Bigod kept his lands and his earldom, and lived at peace with Henry II until his death reportedly in 1177, in Palestine.

It should be noted, however, that on 1 March 1177, his son Roger Bigod appealed to the king on a dispute with his stepmother. Hugh being dead at this time, the date of his death is fixed 'ante caput jejunii', (i.e. before March 9th). If, then, he died in Palestine, his death must have taken place in the preceding year, 1176, to allow time for the arrival of the news in England. Henry II took advantage of Roger's appeal to seize upon the late Earl's treasure. He possessed vast estates, which he inherited, and was also the recipient of the third penny levied in the county of Norfolk.

[edit] Marriage and family He married twice.

Before 1140 he married Juliane de Vere (died c.1199) probably born in Essex, England. She was the daughter of Aubrey de Vere II and Adeliza de Clare, the daughter of Gilbert Fitz Richard de Clare, 2nd Earl of Clare. Their marriage was dissolved before 1168. Their son: Roger Bigod, 2nd Earl of Norfolk (b. c. 1144-1221). His second wife was Gundreda Warwick (c.1135–1200), daughter of Roger de Beaumont, 2nd Earl of Warwick. They had two children: Hugh Bigod (b. 1156) William Hugh Bigod (b.1168) [edit] External links A version of Hugh Bigod's life from The Dictionary of National Biographies Foundation for Medieval Genealogy on Hugh Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk [edit] References This article incorporates text from the Encyclopædia Britannica, Eleventh Edition, a publication now in the public domain. Retrieved from "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hugh_Bigod,_1st_Earl_of_Norfolk" Categories: 1095 births | 1177 deaths | Earls in the Peerage of England | Anglo-Normans | Bigod family

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I was steward to Kings of England, I played both sides against the middle in the battle between Stephen and Matilda for control of the English crown. I was a key supporter of Henry the Second when he came to power. i died in the Holy Land.

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Born: 1099, Belvoir Castle, Leicester, England

Died: BEF 9 Mar 1176/7, Holy Land

Buried: Thetford, Norfolk, England

Notes: steward to Henry I like his brother William, who being mainly instrumental inraising Stephen, Earl of Bologne, to the throne upon the decease of his royal master, was rewarded by this new king with the Earldom of the East Anglia, commonly called Norfolk, and by that designation we find him styled in 1140 (6th Stephen). Had married twice; by his 1st wife, Julian, dau. of Alberic De Vere, he had a son, Roger; and by his 2nd, Gundred, he had two sons, Hugh and William. He was s. by his eldest son, Roger Bigod, 2nd earl. [Sir Bernard Burke, Dormant, Abeyant, Forfeited, and ExtinctPeerages, Burke's Peerage, Ltd., London, 1883, p. 53, Bigod, Earls of Norfolk] The Bigods held the hereditary office of steward (dapifer) of the royal household, and their chief castle was at Framlingham in Suffolk. (Encyclopµdia Britannica, 1961 ed, Vol. 3, pages 556/557, Hugh Bigod, Earl of Norfolk.)

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Hugh le Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk, succeeded his aunt Albreda--and by extension, her eldest brother Berengar--as heir both to Berengar's tenancy-in-chief in Lincolnshire and the Norman lands of Robert de Tosny of Belvoir.

Hugh was born before 1107 in Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire, England. He was heir of his brother, who perished, without issue, in the sinking of the White Ship on 26 November 1119. Hugh was steward to King Henry I before 1135.

He was created Earl of the East Angles, Norfolk and Suffolk, by King Stephen for his support in raising him to the throne in 1136.

Hugh was styled "Earl of Norfolk" in 1140.

Hugh married Juliane de Vere, Countess of Norfolk, daughter of Aubrey de Vere II and Adeliza de Clare, circa 1149.

Hugh defended King Stephen throughout his reign, and gallanty defended, against the Empress Maud and her son, until he could no longer hold out for want of timely relief, the castle of Ipswich before 1154 in Suffolk.

Hugh married Gudred (?) circa 1155.

Hugh gained the considerable favor of King Henry II, being re-created Earl of Norfolk, by charter, dated at Northampton, and by the same instrument obtaining a grant of the office of steward after 1155. He was shown holding the fee of his aunt, Albrede de Insula, in 1166.

Hugh supported the insurrection of Henry "the Young King." He was forced to pay, for his treason against King Henry II, 1,000 marks, and surrender of his strongest castles after 1174.

Hugh went into the Holy Land with the Earl of Flanders before 1177.

See "My Lines" ( http://homepages.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~cousin/html/p375.htm#i7187 ) from Compiler: R. B. Stewart, Evans, GA ( http://homepages.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~cousin/html/index.htm )

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Sources:

Keats-Rohan, K.S.B. Domesday Descendants: A Prosopography of Persons Occurring in English Documents 1066-1166, II. Pipe Rolls to Cartae Baronum. The Boydell Press, 2002. p. 175.

Wareham, A. Motives and politics of the Bigod Family. ANS 27 (1995).

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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hugh_Bigod_(Justiciar)

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• Office. held the office of Chief Justiciar of England

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http://histfam.familysearch.org/getperson.php?personID=I13569&tree=...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earl_of_Norfolk

Hugh Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk (1095–1177) was born in Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire, England.

He was the second son of Roger Bigod (also known as Roger Bigot) (d. 1107), Sheriff of Norfolk, who founded the Bigod name in England. Hugh Bigod became a controversial figure in history, known for his frequent switching of loyalties and hasty reactions towards measures of authority.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hugh_Bigod,_1st_Earl_of_Norfolk

He married twice.

   * Before 1140 he married Juliane de Vere (died c.1199) probably born in Essex, England. She was the daughter of Aubrey de Vere II and Adeliza de Clare, the daughter of Gilbert Fitz Richard de Clare, 2nd Earl of Clare. Their marriage was dissolved before 1168. Their son:

         o Roger Bigod, 2nd Earl of Norfolk (b. c. 1144-1221).

* His second wife was Gundreda (c.1135–1200), daughter of Roger de Beaumont, 2nd Earl of Warwick. They had two children:

         o Hugh Bigod (b. circa 1156)

         o William Hugh Bigod (b.1168)

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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hugh_Bigod,_1st_Earl_of_Norfolk

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Son of Roger Bigod and Adeliza de Grantesmesnel. Thetford Abbey was a Cluniac monastic house in Thetford founded in 1103 by Roger Bigod, 1st Earl of Norfolk and dedicated to Our Lady. In the 13th century, the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared in a vision to locals requesting the addition to the site of a Lady Chapel. During its construction, the old statue of her on the site was discovered to have a hollow in its head concealing saints' relics, and became a magnet for pilgrims.

It housed the tombs of the Howard dynasty, of Henry FitzRoy, 1st Duke of Richmond and Somerset and of other early Tudor Dynasty officials. Even this could not save the priory from the Dissolution of the Monasteries and, on its closure in 1536, many tombs were removed to St Michael the Archangel, Framlingham.

Hugh initially supported Stephen of Blois as king of England. On the death of Henry I in 1135, his nephew Stephen usurped the throne, despite the oath Stephen and the barons had sworn to accept Henry's daughter Empress Matilda as his successor. It was Bigod who asserted that, in his last days, Henry I had named Stephen to become king at the expense of his daughter Matilda. Civil war resulted when, in 1139 Matilda, commanded the military strength necessary to challenge Stephen within his own realm.

King Stephen had the initial support of the English barons, but in 1136 he was stricken with sickness and the report of his death was quickly spread abroad. Hugh Bigod seized and held Norwich castle. Stephen, quickly recovering, laid siege to the city and Hugh was compelled to surrender. In Feb. 1141 Bigod fought on Stephen's side in the First Battle of Lincoln, after which the Earl deserted the captured king. In July of that year he was granted the earldom of Norfolk by the Empress Matilda but he appears to have assumed a position of armed neutrality during the civil war, rather than actively siding with the supporters of the empress.[2]

He supported his first wife's brother-in-law, Geoffrey de Mandeville, 1st Earl of Essex, during his rebellion against King Stephen in 1143-44. During the disagreement between King Stephen and Archbishop Theobald in 1148, Hugh Bigod sided with the archbishop and received him in his stronghold, Castle of Framlingham, but joined with others in negotiating a reconciliation between the king and archbishop.Five years later, in 1153, when Henry, Duke of Normandy, soon to be King Henry II (r. 1154–89), landed in England to assert his claim to the throne, Bigod held out in Ipswich against Stephen's forces, while Henry II, on the other side, laid siege to Stamford. Both places fell to Stephen. In the critical state of his fortunes, however, Stephen was in no position to punish the rebel earl. Negotiations between the two parties resulted in Henry's recognition as Stephen's heir and Hugh eluded retaliation.

On Henry II's accession in December 1154, Bigod received confirmation of the possession of his earldom and office of royal steward by a charter issued apparently in January of the next year. The first years of the new reign were spent in restoring order to the shattered kingdom, and in breaking the power of the independent barons, which had grown out of control during King Stephen's reign.

It was not before long that Bigod became agitated under the rule of law initiated by Henry. He grew restless with measures such as the scutage, a fee paid by vassals in lieu of military service, which became the central feature of Henry II's military system of operation by 1159. The Earl showed signs of resistance, but was at once put down. In 1157 Henry II marched into the eastern counties and received the earl's submission.

After this incident Hugh Bigod makes no significant appearances in the chronicles for some time; he is named among those who had been excommunicated by Becket, in consequence of his retention of lands belonging to the monastery of Pentney in Norfolk.

The revolt of 1173[edit]

Main article: Revolt of 1173–1174

In 1173 the young Crown Prince Henry (also known as Henry the Young King), raised a revolt against his father, Henry II. This gave Hugh Bigod yet another chance for rebellion, along with the league of the English barons and the kings of France and Scotland in his favour. He at once became a leader in the cause, perhaps eager to revive the feudal power, which Henry II had curtailed. In addition to the fact that the inevitable conflict, as far as England was concerned, centered round his possessions. The custody of Norwich Castle was promised by the young prince as his reward.

The king's energy and good fortune were equal to the occasion. While he held in check his rebel vassals in France, the loyal barons in England defeated his enemies there. Robert de Beaumont, 3rd Earl of Leicester (d.1190) landed at Walton, in Suffolk, on 29 September 1173 and marched to Framlingham, joining forces with Hugh. Together they besieged and took the castle of Hagenet in Suffolk on 13 October, held by Randal de Broc for the crown. But the Earl of Leicester was defeated and taken prisoner setting out from Framlingham at the Battle of Fornham, near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, by the justiciar, Richard de Luci and other barons. These then turned their arms against Earl Hugh, who, not being strong enough to fight, opened negotiations with his assailants. It is said he bought them off, and at the same time secured a safe passage home for the Flemings in his service.

Final days[edit]

Though defeated and compelled to surrender his castles, Bigod kept his lands and his earldom, and lived at peace with Henry II until his death reportedly in 1177 in Palestine.

It should be noted, however, that on 1 March 1177, his son Roger Bigod appealed to the king on a dispute with his stepmother. Hugh being dead at the time of Roger's appeal, the date of his father's death is fixed 'ante caput jejunii', (i.e. before 9 March). If, then, he died in Palestine, his death must have taken place in the preceding year, 1176, to allow time for the arrival of the news in England. Henry II took advantage of Roger's appeal to seize upon the late Earl's treasure. Earl Hugh had possessed vast estates, which he inherited, and was also the recipient of the third penny of judicial fines levied in the county of Norfolk by right of his earldom.

Marriage and family. He married twice. Before 1140 he married Juliane de Vere (died c.1199) probably born in Essex, England. She was the daughter of Aubrey de Vere II and Adeliza de Clare, the daughter of Gilbert Fitz Richard de Clare, 2nd Earl of Clare. Their marriage was dissolved before 1168. Their son: Roger Bigod, 2nd Earl of Norfolk (b. c. 1144-1221).

Family links:

Parents:

 Roger de Bigod (____ - 1107)

 Adeliza De Tosny, Heiress Of Belvoir (1064 - 1135)

Spouse:

 Juliana Devere Bigod (1108 - 1199)*

Children:

 Roger Bigod (1144 - 1220)*

Siblings:

 Maud Bigod D'Aubigny*

 Hugh Bigod (1095 - 1175)

 William Bigod (1101 - 1120)**