Robert de Vere, 5th Earl of Oxford (c. 1220 – 1296) was the son and heir of Hugh de Vere, 4th Earl of Oxford, and chamberlain to Queen Eleanor.

Early life

Robert de Vere was born about 1220, the only son of Hugh de Vere, 4th Earl of Oxford, and Hawise de Quincy, daughter of Saer de Quincy, 1st Earl of Winchester. He had three sisters, Isabel, Lora and Margaret.

Career

Robert de Vere's marriage brought into his family the role of chamberlain to Henry III's queen Eleanor. He was among the followers of Simon de Montfort during the Second Barons' War, and was with Simon's son, Simon the Younger, when Edward I of England attacked Kenilworth Castle prior to the Battle of Evesham. De Vere's title and property were forfeited, but restored shortly afterwards by the Dictum of Kenilworth.

Marriage and issue

Before 22 February 1252, he married Alice de Sanford, daughter and heiress of Gilbert de Sanford. They had six sons and two daughters:

Death

Robert de Vere died before 7 September 1296. His widow, Alice, died at Canfield, Essex on 7 September 1312. They were both buried at Earls Colne, Essex. The heart of Robert de Vere was buried separately at the Ipswich Greyfriars, which was the burial place of Margaret Mortimer, wife of the 6th Earl.

Footnotes