Robert de Ferrers, 1st Earl of Derby

Robert de Ferrers, 1st Earl of Derby (c. 1062 - 1139) was born in Derbyshire, England, a younger son of Henry de Ferrieres and his wife Bertha Roberts. His father, born in Ferrieres, Normandy, France accompanied William the Conqueror during his invasion of England. The family was rewarded with a grant of Tutbury Castle in Staffordshire and 114 manors in Derbyshire.

Robert's elder brothers Egenulph and William died during their father's lifetime, leaving him the only surviving son and heir to the family estate.

As a young man, Robert led the men of Derbyshire in King Stephen of England's victory over King David I of Scotland at the Battle of the Standard at Northallerton. For his service, the king created him Earl of Derby in 1138.

Robert was succeeded by his second but eldest surviving son Robert de Ferrers, 2nd Earl of Derby.

 

Peerage of England
Preceded by: New Creation	Earl of Derby 1138–1139	Succeeded by: Robert de Ferrers