Geoffrey de Clinton I, Chamberlain and Treasurer, acquired the north Warwickshire manor of Coleshill around 1120 in the reign of King Henry I. Prior to Geoffrey's acquisition of Coleshill, which was probably attained around the same time he was granted Kenilworth, the manor of Coleshill was in royal hands. Dugdale quotes from a charter issued during the reign of Henry II which ratifies a grant made to Osbert de Clinton by his kinsman Geoffrey de Clinton II. According to Dugdale, it was the unnamed brother of Geoffrey de Clinton I who was the founder of that other distinguished branch of the de Clinton family, the Clintons of Coleshill.
In common with their kinsmen, the de Clinton family of Kenilworth, the Coleshill branch of the family played a major roll in the history of both Warwickshire in particular as well as the West Midlands in general. The Clintons of Coleshill subsequently became involved in Ireland, and during the reign of Edward I, they also became involved in the wars against the Scots.
The history of the thriving market town of Coleshill was very much shaped by this influential family. In 1207 Osbert de Clinton II was granted a royal charter from King John to allow him to hold a weekly market on a Sunday in his manor of Coleshill. Osbert de Clinton II was also granted permission to hold an annual fair on the eve and festival of St, Peter and St. Paul.
Chapter 8 of 'The Clinton Family: A Concise History c.1056-2001' gives a detailed insight into the fascinating history of this influential Warwickshire family.
ILLUSTRATIONS
The Parish Church of St Peter and St Paul, Coleshill, Warwickshire
The Norman baptismal font in Coleshill Parish Church commissioned by the de Clinton family in the 12th Century