The Percy Family

Known as “Harry Hotspur” due to his impulsive nature, he accompanied his father in retaking Berwick Castle from the Scots in 1378. Joint Warden of the Marches with his father, and Governor of Berwick, he also served in Calais, France, and whilst attacking the invading Scottish army at Otterburn in 1388, he and his youngest brother were captured. ‘Percy’s Cross’ supposedly marks the spot where the Scottish General James, 2nd Earl of Douglas, was slain. Both sides claimed victory, but modern opinion inclines to the Scots.

The English ballad “Chevy Chase” and the Scottish ballad “Otterburn” are based on the battle.

Upon his release, 'Hotspur' became Warden of Carlisle, Warden of the March and East March, Governor of Bordeaux, and, as with his father, joined forces with the 2nd Duke of Lancaster (later Henry IV).

Confirmed as Warden of the East March and Governor of Berwick and Roxburgh by Henry IV, Justiciar Cheshire, North Wales and Flint, Constable of Caernarvon, Chester, Conway and Flint Castles, also granted Anglesey with Beaumaris Castle, together with lordship of Bamburgh Castle for life, and a commissioner to treat for peace with the Scots, a commander at Homildon Hill in 1402.

''Hotspur' turned with his uncle Thomas Percy, Earl of Worcester, and father against Henry IV, forming an alliance with the Welsh rebel Owain Glendwr, but fell at the Battle of Shrewsbury when he raised his visor to get some air and was hit in the mouth with an arrow. His body was cut into four and sent around England, his head being stuck on a pole at York’s gates. He is a major character in William Shakespear’s Henry IV, Part 1 and is shown in armour below.