The Tudor Society

September 14 – The death of Sir William Kingston, Anne Boleyn’s gaoler

On this day in Tudor history, 14th September 1540, Sir William Kingston died at his home in Painswick in Gloucestershire.

Sir William Kingston was a Knight of the Garter and comptroller of the king's household during Henry VIII's reign. He was also Constable of the Tower of London while Queen Anne Boleyn was imprisoned there in May 1536. His daily letters from the Tower to Thomas Cromwell in May 1536 are a wonderful resource for historians.

Kingston had an impressive career serving Henry VIII and was rewarded for his loyal service.

Find out more about him...

There are 2 comments Go To Comment

  1. M

    William Kingston was my 13th great grandfather. Was he someone I should be proud of being directly related to?

    1. N

      I too am a great, great, great, great …granddaughter of sir William Kingston, My name is Nori Lynn Kingston. I am nether prod or non proud of his service while in the house of the Tutor error under King Henry IIIV. The more I learn of him, I am understanding about his position and his political obligations. But, we cannot change history and who’s to say if during that time period would we have done the same. To be in the good graces of the monarchy was above all the most difficult and important position to be in.

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September 14 – The death of Sir William Kingston, Anne Boleyn’s gaoler