Agnes of Essex
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About
Agnes of Essex was the third wife of the first Earl of Oxford and the mother of all four of his sons and his daughter. Her father was Henry of Essex, lord of Rayleigh, constable and royal standard-bearer, who lost everything after being defeated in a judicial duel and ended his life as a monk.
Research notes
✓ DOCUMENTED (CP App. J p.116, photographed: "The 1st Earl of Oxford had 4 sons, all by his 3rd wife, AGNES DE ESSEX, and one daughter"): AGNES, dau. of HENRY OF ESSEX, lord of Rayleigh, constable and royal standard-bearer (note-only: the same Henry de Essex disgraced after the trial-by-combat of 1163 - his fall recounted by Jocelin of Brakelond); 3rd wife of the 1st Earl and mother of ALL his sons. Countess of Oxford; her marriage's validity was fought to Rome and upheld. Direct ancestress. Added 22 Jul 2026.