Crazy Facts on Historical Kings - Part 1 shorts history king fun facts factshorts

The Groom of the Stool was a male servant in the household of the English monarch who was responsible for assisting the king in his toileting needs. It is a matter of some debate as to whether the duties involved cleaning the king's anus, but the groom is known to have been responsible for supplying a bowl, water and towels and also for monitoring the king's diet and bowel movements and liaising with the Royal Doctor about the king's health. The appellation "Groom of the Close Stool" derived from the item of furniture used as a toilet. There were three Grooms of the Stool during the reign of Henry VIII: Sir William Compton (1509–1526): Compton was a childhood friend of Henry VIII and served as his Groom of the Stool from the beginning of the king's reign. He was a trusted advisor and confidante, and he was present at many important events in Henry's life, including the execution of Anne Boleyn. Sir Henry Norris (1526–1536): Norris was a prominent courtier who served as Groom of the Stool from 1526 until his execution for treason in 1536. He was a close friend of Anne Boleyn, and he was one of the men accused of adultery with her. Sir Thomas Heneage (1536–1546): Heneage was a loyal servant of Henry VIII who served as Groom of the Stool from 1536 until the king's death in 1547. He was a trusted advisor and confidante, and he was present at many important events in Henry's life, including the execution of Catherine Howard. The position of Groom of the Stool was a powerful one, and the men who held the position were often privy to the most intimate details of the king's life. They were also responsible for ensuring the king's health and well-being, and they could play a significant role in the political affairs of the realm.

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