Sir Thomas Fettiplace

Sir Thomas Fettiplace was an English noble who rose in wealth and prestige through service at the Royal Court.

Thomas was the third son of John Fettiplace, citizen and draper of London and Lord of the Manor of East Shefford (Berkshire). His father died when he was 3 years old, and was brought up by his mother and step-father, John Estbury.

Through his elder brother, Anthony, Thomas was introduced to the Royal Court of King Henry VII (r. 1485-1509). He was knighted on 18th February 1504, and by 1507 commissions and appointments had brought him enough reward to begin purchasing manors across Berkshire. Throughout his life he continued to serve his Sovereign in both military and political matters. Thomas was close to Henry VIII (r. 1509-1547), and was appointed one of the King's Council to make arrangements for the meeting of King Henry VIII and Francis I of France (r. 1515-1547). He was in attendance of the King’s wife Queen Catherine while the meeting of Henry VIII and Francis I took place, and has attend upon the King at his meeting with the Emperor Charles V (r. 1519-1556) at Gravelines in 1520.