Narberth Ladies Probus Club was fortunate to have Gareth Mills to talk to them about the remarkable life of Margaret Beaufort, the mother of King Henry VII.

Margaret was a remarkable figure in English History and known for her political savvy and devotion to her son. She was the daughter of John Beaufort, Duke of Somerset and Margaret Beauchamp of Blesto, also the granddaughter of John of Gaunt which gave her claim to the English throne.

Her early life was marked by tragedy and instability. Her father died when she was young and she was married to Edmund Tudor when she was only 12 years old. Edmund died soon afterwards, leaving Margaret pregnant with their only child, Henry Tudor. After great difficulty, 13-year-old Margaret had the baby at Pembroke Castle. The young Henry was placed in the custody of his uncle, Jasper Tudor.

Despite her difficulties, Margaret remained committed to securing her son’s future and protecting his claim to the throne. She remarried twice but both marriages ended in divorce. She became involved in politics and used her intelligence and social connections to support the Lancastrian cause during the war of the roses.

In 1485 her son defeated Richard III at the battle of Bosworth Field and became King Henry VII.

Margaret was able to take her place in court and became one of the most influential women in England. She was devoted to her son and worked tirelessly to support his reign and ensure the success of his politics.

Margaret was remembered for her philanthropic work, including the foundation of two colleges at the University of Cambridge: Christ’s College and St John’s college, she also founded a number of charitable institutions including a hospital for the poor and a girls’ school.