Hugh de Beaumont, 1st Earl of Bedford

Who is Hugh de Beaumont, 1st Earl of Bedford?

Hugh de Beaumont, 1st Earl of Bedford was Earl of Bedford from 1137 to 1141. The grant of the earldom was by Stephen of England; this was the first of his numerous creations. Hugh was known as 'Hugh the Pauper' or 'Hugh the Poor'.

The existence of this title has been doubted. It is discussed by R. H. C. Davis on the basis of the chronicle evidence.

In 1137 Stephen ordered Miles de Beauchamp, castellan of Bedford Castle, to give it up to Hugh. Miles resisted, and a siege followed. The castle was eventually taken; but Miles repossessed it in an attack.