The Earls of Devon (one of the "Medieval Hierarchy" Series)

See also Devon History (Other Devon Resources).
------------------------------------------- PART ONE: The following genealogical line is of the REDVERS and VERNON family, the first Earls of Devon. The line shows the linkage with the COURTENAY family, the succeeding Earls of Devon. ONLY the main family members are shown.

Sources for the genealogical details are varied, but are usually very reliable. Sources include Burke's Peerage and the Complete Peerage. However, these genealogical details are intended as a general guide only, and the viewer is encouraged to seek his or her own confirmation.

However, feel free to make ANY comment. Please mail me, John Lerwill.

Link to Devon History Selection.

Last updated 1st March, 1999.
N.B. Where a name is shown in red, click on this name
to bring up details of the preceding/succeeding family.
Please see additional notes at BOTTOM OF PAGE.
Tree

NOTES

Baldwin de BRIONNE was the 1st Baron of Okehampton, a title awarded by William the Conqueror, together with appointments as Sheriff of Devon and Castellan of Exeter.

Baldwin's son Richard de REVIERS has been said to have been created Earl of Devon by Henry I, but this is in dispute. The first Earl would appear to have been Richard's son Baldwin. He supported Empress Matilda against Stephen, but was exiled in 1135 after defeat at Exeter. He returned in 1139 and seized Corfe Castle (Dorset) from Stephen. The Empress created him Earl of Devon after this work, in 1141.

The Earldom switched to the Courtenays after being judged the legitimate heirs through inter-marriage, on the demise of the REVIERS/VERNON family (1293). However, Hugh de COURTENAY had to wait 40 years before his Earldom was confirmed.

This Medieval Hierarchy Series was initiated as a result of looking into my own family's medieval history. I noticed the strong links created between the families of the Earls of Devon, Gloucester, Leicester and others. I hope that this Series will be extended by the inclusion of many additional families, particularly those of Devon and the West Country, regardless of their importance in the Medieval Hierarchy.

Please mail me with family details and/or other comment. John Lerwill.