Henry of Grossmont, the Duke Of Lancaster

Henry of Grossmont, a confidant of the king Edward II (r. 1307-1327) served as a soldier, diplomat and administrator during the opening phase of the Hundred Years’ War (1337-1453). He participated in fifteen expeditions against the Scots and the Continent, and on numerous diplomatic missions.

From his father, the Earl of Lancaster, he inherited the four earldoms and estates in 26 counties which brought him an income of around £8,380 a year. Through successful campaigns in France, his wealth was additionally augmented by booty and valuable estates to which should be added the right to coinage or the monopoly over salt in some areas. Due to his loyal service to the king, he was created a duke in 1351, only the second English duke after the Black Prince. He was also granted Lancashire as a palatinate.

Lancaster left a sizable fortune of around £100,000 or £42.6bn in 2010’s money to his only heir, daughter Blanche, who passed the family wealth to her husband, the Duke John of Gaunt.