Medieval (1066 - 1485)

Norman Conquest (1066)
Tamworth was given to Robert le Dispenser.  He was the main steward for Duke William of Normandy, later William the Conqueror (1066-1087).  The role of steward was a high status position for a skilled and influential nobleman.  It is likely the original motte and bailey castle was built c1070. When Robert le Dispenser died without children, the castle and his other extensive property passed through the daughters of his brother, Urse  d’Abitot, Sheriff of Worcester.  Tamworth Castle was inherited by Robert Marmion c1100 through his marriage to Matilda, daughter of Urse of d’Abitot.

The Lords Marmion - 12th century to the 13th century (1100 - 1291)
The Marmions were Lords of Fontenay le Marmion in Normandy.  They were the hereditary champions of the dukes of Normandy, and after 1066, the Kings of England.  This meant they would have jousted in the Kings colours and offered a ceremonial challenge at coronation ceremonies to anyone who might oppose the new King. 

For nearly two centuries the Marmion family held Tamworth Castle.  From 1100 – 1294 there were six lords, all but the last were named Robert. 

Robert IV (1185 – 1218) is of particular note; he earned the title Robert the Justice.  King Henry II (1154 – 1189) appointed him Head of the Itinerant (travelling from place to place) justices of England, in effect acting as Lord Chief Justice.  In 1215 he deserted King John whilst on campaign in France and sided with the French king.  This action had far reaching consequences.  By royal command an order was given to punish Robert by seizing all of his lands, imprison his son Geoffrey and to demolish Tamworth Castle:

 “Go without delay to the Castle for Tamworth and to hold and retain it.  With all
   possessions, horses, arms and harnesses, so that he shall throw it down immediately”
December 30th 1215

Physical evidence exists today of the part destruction of the Sandstone castle keep.  Shortly after King John’s death peace was made between Robert’s sons and the Crown and they regained possession of their lands.

Philip Marmion was the last Lord of that family to reside at Tamworth Castle from 1241 – 1291.  He was a powerful, influential nobleman and close supporter of King Henry III (1216 -1272).  He received regular and substantial gifts including deer and wood in return for his loyalty to the king during the baron’s revolt.  King Henry is believed to have visited the castle in 1257:  not only was this a great honour but also a symbol of Philip's importance in the kingdom.  Philip had no legitimate male heir to inherit his legacy and on his death the castle passed out of the Marmion family forever.  For a short period the castle was held by Philip's daughter but on her early demise in 1294 the castle passed to her niece Joan and Joan's husband Alexander Freville. 

The Freville family - The 14th century (1294 - 1423)
The Freville family originated from Cambridgeshire.  The Second Lord Baldwin De Freville entertained King Edward III at Tamworth Castle in 1330 whilst he used the royal forest of Cannock chase: 

’……….tenant of the other moiety, coals and litter for the kings chamber for one night when the king hunts in the hay of hopeway [Hopwas] and lies at the castle of Tamworth’

The third lord Freville, again named Baldwin, was a seasoned soldier. He played a part in the Hundred Years War against France and was in high favour with Prince Edward (known as the Black Prince).  He was granted the title of Seneschal of Xantoigne (Senseschal ~ Lord's representative in the administration of an estate, presiding at manorial courts, auditing accounts and conduct inquests).  He died overseas.

The final Baldwin de Freville of Tamworth died leaving three daughters and one son who was two years old.  This son died a minor and the Castle passed to Baldwin’s eldest daughter and her husband Elizabeth and Thomas Ferrers.

To learn about the flags of Tamworth click here.