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1st earl of Bedford, John Russell
(c. 1485—1555)
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(c. 1485–1555).
The founder of the fortunes of the house of Russell was born in Dorset of gentry stock and became a gentleman of the bedchamber to Henry VII and Henry VIII. In 1537 he became comptroller of the household, and in 1539 was created baron and given the Garter. From 1540 to 1543 he served as lord high admiral and from 1542 to his death as lord privy seal. His gains from the dissolution of the monasteries were gigantic, and included Tavistock in Devon, Woburn in Bedfordshire, and Covent Garden in London. Though he endorsed the proclamation of Lady Jane Grey in 1553, he succeeded in retaining the favour of Mary.
Subjects: History — Regional and National History
