We know little of Gerard, except that he was the son-in-law of the Emperor of the West. Records from this time are sparse.
He is my 31 x great-grandfather.
Gerard was probably born in Auvergne, France, but history doesn’t record when he was born or who his parents were. Since he married the daughter of the Emperor it is reasonable to conclude he was also of noble birth.
By Peter Potrowl
Titles
He was Count of Auvergne1 and must have lived there.
He also was a Magistrate2.
Family
He married Hildegarde, the daughter of Louis I, Emperor of the West and Ermengarde of Hesbaye2.
Gerard and Hildegarde had a son1 2, but some sources also claim he had a daughter with this wife:
- Ranulf I of Poitiers
- Unknown daughter, who married Foucard de Limoges1 3.
It is possible Gerard had his daughter with a second wife.
Death
Gerard died around noon on 25 June 841 at the Battle of Fontenoy1 because of wounds received in battle fighting on Lothar’s side against Lothar’s brothers.
The Battle of Fontenoy was a turning point in the War of Carolingian succession. The effect of this is still visible in European borders today.
His final resting place is unknown because descriptions of the battle don’t mention what the troops did with their fallen colleagues. Since Lothar retreated it is likely the enemy looted Gerard’s body and left on the battlefield.
Lineage
He is my 31 x great-grandfather.
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