The De la Mare family - Provided by John Wright
Peter De la Mare, of Norman extraction, inherited the Manor of Marsh Baldon, in the middle of the 12th century. The family was to hold the Manor through nine generations, living colourful and dangerous lives in turbulent times. On three occasions they had their land sequestrated, only to be restored at a later date.
One descendant plotted to put the son of the King of France on the throne in place of King John; another served in the retinue of Edward I in Scotland; a third (Peter IV) had his lands confiscated for his opposition to Edward II.
Peter IV then went on to raid the lands of the Despenser “protégé” John de Hadlow. The unpopular Despenser family, father and son were close to Edward II partly due to the King’s infatuation for the son. Shortly after, both Despensers were beheaded and an even grimmer fate awaited the King. The lands were restored to the De la Mare family by the next King (Edward III).
Acknowledgements to Victoria County History