The Groom of the Stool: Henry VIII’s Trusted Advisor and Royal "Butt Wiper" Henry VIII is infamous for his six wives, but his court featured one of history's most bizarre, yet powerful, jobs: the Groom of the Stool. Despite the title's literal duty, assisting the King with his most intimate hygiene (including wiping his rear after using the royal close stool),the position held immense trust and prestige. The role provided unparalleled, private access to the monarch. Because of this intimacy, the