William of Ypres

Who is William of Ypres?

William of Ypres, styled count of Flanders, was King Stephen of England's chief lieutenant during the English civil wars of 1139–54. He commanded a contingent of Flemish soldiers. He claimed the county of Flanders upon the death of Charles the Good on 2 March 1127/28.

Though no proof exists of his creation as Earl of Kent by King Stephen, chroniclers describe him as "possessing the county" and "having Kent in his custody". He exercised the same powers over this county as other earls over theirs; though he never adopted the comital style.

He founded the Cistercian house of Boxley circa 1146.