Thomas of Lancaster appointed Admiral of the Kings Fleet
On 20 February 1405 Thomas of Lancaster was appointed as Admiral of the Kings Fleet. This allowed John Beaufort Earl of Somerset to concentrate his efforts on land based operations around Calais.
Thomas of Lancaster
Thomas of Lancaster was the second eldest son of King Henry IV. He was second in line to the throne and would become a councillor to both his father and brother. Following his father’s seizure of power, Thomas had been thrust into the heart of politics. Having already been appointed to the ceremonial position of High Steward for England, he was soon to have potentially more challenging role of the Lieutenancy of Ireland. Thomas was just 14 years oldwhen dispatched to Ireland.
From Ireland to Wales
His service in Ireland was reasonably short. After 18 months he returned to England having had little opportunity to address the revolts in Ireland due to a lack of funds. His father soon sent him to lead relief forces in Wales, before recalling him in February 1405.
Admiral of the Fleet
The reason for the recall was the urgent need to have somebody trustworthy acting as Kings Admiral of the Fleet. This was due to the Earl of Somerset, John Beaufort, being needed for land based military duties against the French around Calais. With the position in and around Calais being perilous, it was advisable to take the burden of the Admiralty away from Somerset to allow a focus on defeating the French on land.
Thomas was the ideal choice. He was loyal and his staff knew the systems of court. Having been Lieutenant of Ireland he and his adivsors were used to the administrative functions of a senior position. His task was management of the Fleet in the Straights of Dover for the period in which the Earl of Somerset was indisposed.
The Importance of Calais
It illustrates the importance of Calais to the English cause that they would relieve an Earl from the position of Admiral for its defence. There are very few occasions in English military history when the Admiralty has been a lesser role. Appointing Prince Thomas temporarily ensured that the fleet was commanded by someone of the highest level: and Thomas was not only a Prince but did still hold the office of High Steward.
Thomas of Lancaster resumed the Lieutenancy of Ireland
The solution worked as Calais was held and the management of the Fleet reverted to the Earl of Somerset. Prince Thomas then found himself once again tasked with the Lieutenancy of Ireland, with funds being provided. He stayed there until his father’s health was failing. The Earl of Somerset retained positions in Calais and as Admiral until his death.
Note
Thomas of Lancaster’s appointment as High Steward was whilst a minor. So too was his first spell as Lieutenant of Ireland. Whilst he held these positions, and did travel to Ireland as a 14 year old to take up his position, the bulk of the work would have been taken up on his behalf by trusted advisors. Fulfilment of these roles was in his name, rather than being by his personal direction. Similarly when he was appointed to the position of Admiral it was to have a royal figurehead in post.
