Sir Thomas Erpingham was an English soldier and administrator who loyally served three generations of the House of Lancaster, including Henry IV and Henry V, and whose military career spanned four decades. After the Lancastrian usurpation of the English throne in 1399, his career in their service was transformed as he rose to national prominence, and through his access to royal patronage he acquired great wealth and influence.
Sir Thomas Erpingham's effigy (possibly taken from his tomb) in the Erpingham Gate, Norwich
Erpingham travelled throughout Europe during his military career.
Richard II stops the trial by battle between Henry, Duke of Hereford and the Duke of Norfolk (The Chronicle of England (1864))
Richard II met by his enemies—led by Erpingham—after the King was lured by the Earl of Northumberland from Conwy Castle (from La Prinse et mort du roy Richart, British Library)
The Lord Chamberlain of the Household is the most senior officer of the Royal Household of the United Kingdom, supervising the departments which support and provide advice to the Sovereign of the United Kingdom while also acting as the main channel of communication between the Sovereign and the House of Lords. The office organises all ceremonial activity such as garden parties, state visits, royal weddings, and the State Opening of Parliament. They also oversee the Royal Mews and Royal Travel, as well as the ceremony around the awarding of honours.
Sir Robert Walpole, the Prime Minister who gave the Lord Chamberlain official censorship duties. Painting by Arthur Pond.