The Yeoman of the Guard
Written and researched by: Margaret Odrowaz-Sypniewska, B.F.A.
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The Kings/Queens Yeoman of the Guard was established by Henry VII as his personal body guards. Henry was at the Battle of Bosworth Field, which concluded the War of the Roses. The War of the Roses was an English civil war. Henry VII declared his crown by right of conquest. Rhys ap Thomas was to have made him a crown of thorns at the battlefield. After this battle there still remained loyal members to both sides: the red rose of Lancaster (the winners) and the white rose of York. Henry VII was considered an upstart Welshman, who married Margaret of York. Henry VII had already organized fifty archers for his own crowning. They were called the Yeoman of the Guard of Our Lord the King. Today their duties are to prepare the monarch's bedchamber each night and check to see that no assassins slip into their room. After the bedchamber is secure, they sleep at the door to keep it safe. The yeoman could also serve as tasters, so that the reigning King/Queen should not be poisoned by their enemies. One member also stands next to the sovereign at banquets and other functions in case his tastng services are needed. |