Abbot John Whethamstede’s Chronicle of the Abbey of St Albans
Abbot John Whethamstede's Register aka Chronicle of his second term at the Abbey of St Albans, 1451-1461, is a remarkable text that describes his first-hand experience of the beginning of the Wars of the Roses including the First and Second Battles of St Albans, 1455 and 1461, respectively, their cause, and their consequences, not least on the Abbey itself. His text also includes Loveday, Blore Heath, Northampton, the Act of Accord, Wakefield, and Towton, and ends with the Coronation of King Edward IV. In addition to the events of the Wars of the Roses, Abbot John, or his scribes who wrote the Chronicle, include details in the life of the Abbey such as charters, letters, land exchanges, visits by legates, and disputes, which provide a rich insight into the day-to-day life of the Abbey, and the challenges faced by its Abbot.
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Paternal Family Tree: Hussey
Maternal Family Tree: Elizabeth Merbury
Around 1492 [her father] John Hussey 1st Baron Hussey of Sleaford [aged 27] and Margaret Blount [aged 17] were married at Keynsham, Gloucestershire [Map].
In 1509 [her father] John Hussey 1st Baron Hussey of Sleaford [aged 44] and [her mother] Anne Grey Baroness Hussey Sleaford [aged 19] were married at Sleaford, Lincolnshire. The difference in their ages was 25 years. She the daughter of [her grandfather] George Grey 2nd Earl Kent and [her grandmother] Katherine Herbert Countess Kent.
Around 1526 Bridget Hussey Countess Bedford was born to [her father] John Hussey 1st Baron Hussey of Sleaford [aged 61] and [her mother] Anne Grey Baroness Hussey Sleaford [aged 36].
In October 1532 [her brother-in-law] Walter Hungerford 1st Baron Hungerford Heytesbury [aged 29] and [her half-sister] Elizabeth Hussey Baroness Hungerford [aged 35] were married.
On 8th June 1536 [her brother-in-law] Walter Hungerford 1st Baron Hungerford Heytesbury [aged 33] was created 1st Baron Hungerford of Heytesbury. [her half-sister] Elizabeth Hussey Baroness Hungerford [aged 39] by marriage Baroness Hungerford of Heytesbury.
On 2nd July 1536 three weddings between the Neville, and Manners and Vere families, were celebrated at one mass at Holywell Priory [Map]:
Henry Neville 5th Earl of Westmoreland [aged 11] and Anne Manners Countess of Westmoreland [aged 9] were married. She the daughter of Thomas Manners 1st Earl of Rutland [aged 44] and Eleanor Paston Countess Rutland [aged 41]. He the son of Ralph Neville 4th Earl of Westmoreland [aged 38] and Katherine Stafford Countess of Westmoreland [aged 37]. They were half fourth cousins. She a great x 5 granddaughter of King Edward III of England.
[her future husband] Henry Manners 2nd Earl of Rutland [aged 9] and Margaret Neville Countess Rutland were married. She the daughter of Ralph Neville 4th Earl of Westmoreland and Katherine Stafford Countess of Westmoreland. He the son of Thomas Manners 1st Earl of Rutland and Eleanor Paston Countess Rutland. They were half fourth cousins. He a great x 5 grandson of King Edward III of England.
John de Vere 16th Earl of Oxford [aged 20] and Dorothy Neville Countess of Oxford were married. She the daughter of Ralph Neville 4th Earl of Westmoreland and Katherine Stafford Countess of Westmoreland. He the son of John de Vere 15th Earl of Oxford [aged 65] and Elizabeth Trussell Countess of Oxford.
Those present included Thomas Audley 1st Baron Audley Walden [aged 48], Thomas Howard 3rd Duke of Norfolk [aged 63], Charles Brandon 1st Duke of Suffolk [aged 52], Henry Grey 1st Duke of Suffolk [aged 19], Henry Courtenay 1st Marquess Exeter [aged 40], John de Vere 15th Earl of Oxford and Ralph Neville 4th Earl of Westmoreland.
On 29th June 1537 [her father] John Hussey 1st Baron Hussey of Sleaford [aged 72] was beheaded at Lincoln, Lincolnshire [Map]. Baron Hussey of Sleaford forfeit.
In or before 1541 [her son-in-law] Robert Beale and Amy Morison were married. She the daughter of Richard Morrison [aged 27] and Bridget Hussey Countess Bedford [aged 14].
Around 1542 [her brother-in-law] Robert Throckmorton [aged 29] and [her half-sister] Elizabeth Hussey Baroness Hungerford [aged 45] were married.
On 20th September 1543 Thomas Manners 1st Earl of Rutland [aged 51] died. He was buried in the Chancel of St Mary the Virgin Church, Bottesford, Leicestershire [Map]. His son [her future husband] Henry [aged 16] succeeded 2nd Earl of Rutland, 13th Baron Ros Helmsley. Margaret Neville Countess Rutland by marriage Countess of Rutland.
In 1545 [her mother] Anne Grey Baroness Hussey Sleaford [aged 55] died.
Chronicle of Abbot Ralph of Coggeshall
The Chronicle of Abbot Ralph of Coggeshall (Chronicon Anglicanum) is an indispensable medieval history that brings to life centuries of English and European affairs through the eyes of a learned Cistercian monk. Ralph of Coggeshall, abbot of the Abbey of Coggeshall in Essex in the early 13th century, continued and expanded his community’s chronicle, documenting events from the Norman Conquest of 1066 into the tumultuous reign of King Henry III. Blending eyewitness testimony, careful compilation, and the monastic commitment to record-keeping, this chronicle offers a rare narrative of political intrigue, royal power struggles, and social upheaval in England and beyond. Ralph’s work captures the reigns of pivotal figures such as Richard I and King John, providing invaluable insights into their characters, decisions, and the forces that shaped medieval rule. More than a simple annal, Chronicon Anglicanum conveys the texture of medieval life and governance, making it a rich source for scholars and readers fascinated by English history, monastic authorship, and the shaping of the medieval world.
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Before 1548 [her future husband] Francis Russell 2nd Earl Bedford [aged 20] and Margaret St John Countess Bedford [aged 14] were married. He the son of John Russell 1st Earl Bedford [aged 62] and Anne Sapcote Countess Bedford [aged 68].
In 1549 [her son] Charles Morrison was born to Richard Morrison [aged 36] and Bridget Hussey Countess Bedford [aged 23]. He married Dorothea Clerke and had issue.
In 1550 [her daughter] Jane Sibella Morrison Baroness Grey Wilton was born to Richard Morrison [aged 37] and Bridget Hussey Countess Bedford [aged 24]. She married (1) Henry Russell, son of Francis Russell 2nd Earl Bedford and Margaret St John Countess Bedford (2) after 1572 her third cousin Arthur Grey 14th Baron Grey of Wilton, son of William Grey 13th Baron Grey of Wilton and Mary Somerset Baroness Grey Wilton, and had issue.
On 23rd January 1554 [her half-sister] Elizabeth Hussey Baroness Hungerford [aged 57] died.
On 14th March 1555 John Russell 1st Earl Bedford [aged 70] died. His son [her future husband] Francis [aged 28] succeeded 2nd Earl Bedford, 2nd Baron Russell of Cheneys. Margaret St John Countess Bedford [aged 22] by marriage Countess Bedford.
On 10th August 1557 [her future husband] Henry Manners 2nd Earl of Rutland [aged 30] fought being Captain-General of the cavalry at the Battle of St Quentin.
Jean Bourbon Count Soissons and Enghien [aged 29] was killed at the Battle of St Quentin. His brother Louis [aged 27] succeeded Count Soissons.
Henry Dudley [aged 26] was killed.
After 1559 Henry Manners 2nd Earl of Rutland [aged 32] and Bridget Hussey Countess Bedford [aged 33] were married. He the son of Thomas Manners 1st Earl of Rutland and Eleanor Paston Countess Rutland. They were fourth cousins. He a great x 5 grandson of King Edward III of England. She a great x 5 granddaughter of King Edward III of England.
On 14th March 1559 Anne Sapcote Countess Bedford [aged 80] died. Her son [her future husband] Francis Russell 2nd Earl Bedford [aged 32] inherited Chenies Manor House, Buckinghamshire [Map]
On 25th September 1560 Francis Talbot 5th Earl of Shrewsbury [aged 60] died. His son George [aged 32] succeeded 6th Earl of Shrewsbury, 6th Earl Waterford, 11th Baron Furnivall, 15th Baron Strange Blackmere, 12th Baron Talbot. [her sister-in-law] Gertrude Manners Countess Shrewsbury and Waterford [aged 35] by marriage Countess of Shrewsbury Countess Waterford.
On 1st January 1562 the New Years Gift Giving was held. Those who gave gifts provide an interesting who's who of the Elizabethan Court soon after Elizabeth I's Coronation. Queen Elizabeth [aged 28] was present since a number are described as "With the Qene her Majestie."
For 'dimy' read 'demi' ie half-sovereigns.
Neweeyeur's Gyftes gevon to the Quene her Majestie by those Parsons whose Names hereafter ensue, the first of January, the Yere above wrytten.
By the Lady Margaret Strainge [aged 22], a little round mounte of golde to conteyne a pomaunder in it. With the Qene her Majestie. Note. Lady Margaret Strange married Henry Stanley Lord Strange [aged 30] on 07 Feb 1555. In 1561 he had not succeeded to Earldom of Derby and was known by the courtesy title Lord Strange. She is listed first since she was one of the few remaining direct descendants of Henry VII, being a great-granddaughter by his daughter Mary Tudor. Margaret Clifford was first in line to succeed in 1568 but died in 1596 before Elizabeth I.
Dukes, Marquises and Earls.
By the Duke of Norfolke [aged 25], in a purse of purple silke and golde knit, in sundry coynes of golde £20 0s 0d.
By the Marquis of Winchester [aged 79], High Threasourer of Englande, in a purse of crymsen satten, in angells £20 0s 0d.
By the Marquis of Northampton [aged 50], in a purse of crymsen silke and gold knit, in dimy soveraignes £20 0s 0d.
By the Earle of Arundell [aged 49], Lord Steward, in a paper, in angels, £30 0s 0d.
By the Earle of Shrewesburye [aged 34], in a red silke purse, in dimy soveraignes £20 0s 0d.
By the Earle of Darbye [aged 52], in a purse of crymsen satten, embraudered with golde, in dimy soveraignes £20 0s 0d.
By the Earle of Pembroke [aged 61], in a purse of black silk and silver knit, in new angells £30 0s 0d.
By the Earle of Bedforde [aged 35], in a purse of black silk and golde knytt, in dimy soveraignes £20 0s 0d.
By the Earle of Rutlande [aged 35], in a purse of red silk and golde knytt, in dimy soveraigns and angells £20 0s 0d.
By the Earle of Huntingdon, in a red silk purse, in angells £15 0s 0d.
By the Earle of Westmerlande [aged 37], in a red silk purse, in dimy soveraigns £10 0s 0d.
By the Earle of Oxforde [aged 46], in a red silk purse, in dimy soveraigns £10 0s 0d.
By the Earle of Northumberlande [aged 34], in a purse of black silke and silver knytt, in angells £10 0s 0d. With the Quene her Highness.
By the Earle of Warwike [aged 32], a smocke wrought with black silk, a peire of slevis, and a partelett wrought with gold, silver, and black silke. Delivered to the Baroness Cobham [aged 23].
By the Viscounte Mountague [aged 33], in a purse of cloth of golde, in dimy soveraignes £10 0s 0d. With her said Majestie.
Bishops. The list of Bishops ends with "With her said Majestie"; unclear whether this refers to all the Bishops listed.
By the Archbusshop of Caunterbury [aged 57], in a red silk purse, in dimy soveraigns £40 0s 0d.
By the Archbusshop of York [aged 61], in soveraigns £30 0s 0d.
By the Busshop of Duresme [aged 42], in a purse of crymson silk and gold knytt, in angells £30 0s 0d.
By the Busshop of Ely [aged 69], in a red vellat purse, in angells £30 0s 0d.
By the Busshop of Wynchester [aged 52], in a purse of crymsen silk and gold knytt and set with pearles, in angells £20 0s 0d.
By the Busshop of London [aged 43], in a red satten purse, in dimy soveraignes £20 0s 0d.
By the Busshop of Salisbury [aged 39], in a red satten purse, in dimy soveraignes £20 0s 0d.
By the Busshop of Worcester [aged 43], in a black vellat purse, in dimy soveraignes £20 0s 0d.
By the Busshop of Lyncoln [aged 42], in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes £20 0s 0d.
By the Busshop of Chychester [aged 64], in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes £10 0s 0d.
By the Busshop of Norwich [aged 50], in a blew silk purse £13 6s 8d.
By the Busshop of Hereforde [aged 52], in a green silk purse, in dimy soveraignes £10 0s 0d.
By the Busshop of Lychfield and Coventry [aged 48], in a red satten purse, in angells £13 0s 0d.
By the Busshop of Rochester [aged 48], in a red purse, in gold £13 6s 8d.
By the Busshop of Saint Davies [aged 55], in a red silk purse, in angells £10 0s 0d.
By the Busshop of Bathe, in a purse of red silk, in angells £10 0s 0d.
By the Busshop of Exetour, in a blew silk purse, in angells £10 0s 0d.
By the Busshop of Peterborowe, in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes £10 0s 0d.
By the Busshop of Chester, in a red purse, in angells and soveraignes £10 0s 0d.
Duchesses and Countesses.
By the Duchess of Norfolke [aged 22], in a prse of crymsen silk and gold knyt, in angells £20 0s 0d.
By the Duchess of Somerset [aged 65], in a purse of silver and black silk, in royalls and ducketts £14 0s 0d. Probably the Dowager Duchess of Somerset since her husband Edward Seymour 1st Duke of Somerset had been executed in 1552, and their children disinherited as a result.
By the Countess of Surrey, in a purse of tawny silk and gold, in dimy soveraignes £5 0s 0d. Dowager since her husband Henry Howard 1516-1547, by courtesy Earl Surrey, had been executed in 1547.
By the Countess of Pembroke [aged 38], in a cherry bag of crymsen satten, in new angells £15 0s 0d.
By the Countess of Bedford [aged 36], in a purse of crymsen silk and silver knytt, in dimy soveraignes £10 0s 0d.
By the Countess of Darby [aged 51], in a purse of crymson sattin embrodred with gold, in dimy soveraignes £10 0s 0d.
By the Countess of Oxford [aged 36], in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes £5 0s 0d.
By the Countess of Shrewisbury, Dowager [aged 62], in a purse of black silk knytt, in dimy soveraignes £12 0s 0d.
By the Countess of Shrewisbury [aged 37], in a red silk purse knytt, in dimy soveraignes £10 0s 0d.
By the Countess of Huntingdon, Dowager [aged 51], in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes £10 0s 0d.
By the Countess of Huntingdon [aged 24], in a red purse, in angells £10 0s 0d.
By the Countess of Northumberland [aged 24], in a purse of black silk and silver knytt, in angells £10 0s 0d.
By the Countess of Rutland [aged 29], in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes £13 6s 8d.
Viscountesses.
By the Vicountess Hereford, Dowager [aged 42], six hankercheffes edged with gold delivered to the said Baroness Cobham.
By the Vicountess Mountague [aged 23], in a purse of cloth of gold, in dimy soveraignes £10 0s 0d.
Lordes.
By the Lorde Keeper of the Great Seale, Bacon [aged 51], in a purse of silver knytt, in angells £13 6s 8d.
By the Lorde William Howard, Lord Chamberlen [aged 52], in a purse of crymsen silk and gold knytt, in dimy soveraignes £10 0s 0d.
By the Lorde Pagett [aged 56], in a greene purse in dimy soveraignes £13 6s 8d.
By the Lorde Clynton, Lord Admyrall [aged 50], in gold £10 0s 0d.
By the Lorde Riche [aged 65], in a red satten purse, in dimy soveraignes £20 0s 0d.
By the Lorde North [aged 66], in a purse of purple silk and silver, in dimy soveraignes £20 0s 0d.
By the Lorde Lumley [aged 29], in a paper, in angells £20 0s 0d.
By the Lorde Hastings of Loughboro [aged 41], in a red silk purse, in French crowns £13 0s 0d.
By the Lorde Stafford [aged 60], in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes £5 0s 0d.
By the Lorde Windsor [aged 30], in a purse of crymsn silk and gold knytt, in dimy soveraignes £10 0s 0d. With her said Majestie.
by Lorde John Graye [aged 38], a haunce pott of allabaster garnished with silver gilt. Delivered in charge to John Asteley, Esq Master and Threasourer of her Highnes Jewels and Plate. Lord John Grey assumed to be a courtesy title his father being Thomas Grey 2nd Marquess Dorset.
By the Lorde Barkeley [aged 27], in a red purse, in gold £10 0s 0d.
By the Lorde Mountejoye [aged 29], in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes £10 0s 0d.
By the Lorde Abergavennye [aged 36], in a purse of red silke, in dimy soveraignes £5 0s 0d.
By the Lorde Scrowpe [aged 28], in a purse of blak silk and silver knytt, in angells £10 0s 0d.
By the Lorde Caree of Hundesdon [aged 35], in a purse of crymsen silk, in double ducketts £13 6s 8d.
By the Lorde Strainge, in a purse of red silk and gold, in dimy soveraignes £5 0s 0d. Lord Strange being the courtesy title for the Earldom of Derby. He wouldn't inherit until 1572.
By the Lorde Darcey of Chichey [aged 30], in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes, £10 0s 0d.
By the Lorde Shefild [aged 24], in a red silk purse, in gold £10 0s 0d.
By the Lorde Shandowes [aged 40], in a blak silk purse, in angells £10 0s 0d. With her said Majestie.
Ladyes.
By the Baroness Howarde [aged 47], in a purse of crymsen silk and knytt, in dimy soveraignes £10 0s 0d. With her said Majestie.
By the Baroness Clinton [aged 35], a peire of sleevis of gold, pulled out with lawne. Delivered to the said Baroness Cobham.
By the Baroness Genevillet, in gold £6 13s 4d.
By the Lady Barkeley [aged 24], Lord Barkeley's wife, in gold £5 0s 0d.
By the Lady Mountejoye [aged 30], in a red silk purse, in angells £10 0s 0d.
By the Lady Abergavenny, in a red satten purse, in dimy soveraignes £5 0s 0d.
By the Lady Caree of Hundesdon [aged 33], in a blak purse knytt, in angells £10 0s 0d.
By the Lady Taylboyes, Sir Peter Carewe's [aged 48] wyfe, in a purse of blak silk and silver, in dimy soveraignes £10 0s 0d. With her said Majestie.
By the Baroness Cobham, a partelett and a peire of sleeves of sypers wrought with silver and blak silke. Re-delivered to herself.
By the Lady Dakers [aged 21], a warming ball of gold, per oz. 3 oz. dim. With her said Majestie.
By the Lady Shefilde [aged 20], a paire of sleeves wrought with fringe of blak silk and lozeng of gold. Delivered to the said Baroness Cobham.
By the Margaret Baroness Scrope [aged 18], in a purse of blak silk and silver, in angells £7 0s 0d. With her said Majestie.
By the Lady Shandowes [aged 38], a peire of sleeves and a partlett of gold and silver knytt, cawle fashion. Delivered to the said Baroness Cobham.
By the Lady Knowlles [aged 38], a feyne carpett of needleworke, theverende frienged and buttoned with gold and silk. Delivered to John Torneworth, Groom of the Privy Chamber.
By the Lady Butler, in a little white purse, in French crowns £6 0s 0d. With her said Majestie. Unclear as to who Lady Butler refers to.
By the Lady Raclyef, a peire of sleeves of cameryk, all over sett with purle, and two sweet bags. Delivered to the said Baroness Cobham.
On 17th September 1563 [her husband] Henry Manners 2nd Earl of Rutland [aged 36] died. He was buried at St Mary the Virgin Church, Bottesford, Leicestershire [Map]. His son [her step-son] Edward [aged 14] succeeded 3rd Earl of Rutland, 14th Baron Ros Helmsley. Edward Manners 3rd Earl of Rutland became a ward of Queen Elizabeth I of England and Ireland [aged 30] and was specially under the charge of William Cecil 1st Baron Burghley [aged 43].
On 25th June 1566 Francis Russell 2nd Earl Bedford [aged 39] and Bridget Hussey Countess Bedford [aged 40] were married. She by marriage Countess Bedford. He the son of John Russell 1st Earl Bedford and Anne Sapcote Countess Bedford.
In January 1570 Henry Clifford 2nd Earl of Cumberland [aged 53] died. His son George [aged 11] succeeded 3rd Earl of Cumberland, 13th Baron de Clifford, 13th Lord Skipton. Being underage his wardship went to Queen Elizabeth I of England and Ireland [aged 36] who gave it to [her husband] Francis Russell 2nd Earl Bedford [aged 43] whose daughter George subsequently married.
Chronicle of Walter of Guisborough
A canon regular of the Augustinian Guisborough Priory, Yorkshire, formerly known as The Chronicle of Walter of Hemingburgh, describes the period from 1066 to 1346. Before 1274 the Chronicle is based on other works. Thereafter, the Chronicle is original, and a remarkable source for the events of the time. This book provides a translation of the Chronicle from that date. The Latin source for our translation is the 1849 work edited by Hans Claude Hamilton. Hamilton, in his preface, says: 'In the present work we behold perhaps one of the finest samples of our early chronicles, both as regards the value of the events recorded, and the correctness with which they are detailed; Nor will the pleasing style of composition be lightly passed over by those capable of seeing reflected from it the tokens of a vigorous and cultivated mind, and a favourable specimen of the learning and taste of the age in which it was framed.'
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After 1572 [her son-in-law] Arthur Grey 14th Baron Grey of Wilton [aged 36] and Jane Sibella Morrison Baroness Grey Wilton [aged 22] were married. She by marriage Baroness Grey of Wilton. She the daughter of Richard Morrison [aged 59] and Bridget Hussey Countess Bedford [aged 46]. They were third cousins. He a great x 5 grandson of King Edward III of England.
In 1577 George Clifford 3rd Earl of Cumberland [aged 18] and [her step-daughter] Margaret Russell Countess Cumberland [aged 16] were married. She being the daughter of [her husband] Francis Russell 2nd Earl Bedford [aged 50] who had been given George's wardship by Queen Elizabeth I of England and Ireland [aged 43]. She by marriage Countess of Cumberland. She the daughter of Francis Russell 2nd Earl Bedford and Margaret St John Countess Bedford. He the son of Henry Clifford 2nd Earl of Cumberland and Anne Dacre Countess Cumberland [aged 56]. They were third cousins.
On 26th June 1580 [her daughter] Jane Sibella Morrison Baroness Grey Wilton [aged 30] died.
In 1584 [her step-son] John Russell [aged 31] died.
On 13th February 1585 [her step-son] William Russell 1st Baron Russell [aged 25] and Elizabeth Long Baroness Russel Thornhaugh were married at Watford, Hertfordshire. He the son of [her husband] Francis Russell 2nd Earl Bedford [aged 58] and Margaret St John Countess Bedford.
On 27th June 1585 [her step-son] Francis Russell [aged 31] died.
On 28th July 1585 [her husband] Francis Russell 2nd Earl Bedford [aged 58] died. His grandson Edward [aged 12] succeeded 3rd Earl Bedford, 3rd Baron Russell of Cheneys.
On 20th October 1586 [her son-in-law] Henry Clinton 2nd Earl Lincoln [aged 45] and Elizabeth Morrison Countess Lincoln were married. She by marriage Countess Lincoln. She the daughter of Richard Morrison and Bridget Hussey Countess Bedford [aged 60]. He the son of Edward Clinton 1st Earl Lincoln and Ursula Stourton Baroness Clinton. They were fifth cousins.
Tudor Tracts Chapter 20. On Tuesday, being the 1st of August [1587], in the morning, about eight of the clock, the Chief Mourner, being [Bridget Russell [aged 61]] the Countess of Bedford [now the Widow of her third husband], was attended upon by all the Lords and Ladies; and brought into the Presence Chamber within the Bishop's Palace: which [Chamber], all over, was hanged with black cloth.
She was, by the Queen's Majesty's Gentlemen Ushers, placed somewhat under a Cloth of Estate [canopy] of purple velvet: where, having given to the [Gentlemen representing, on this occasion, the] Great Officers, their Staffs of Office (viz. to the Lord Steward; Lord Chamberlain; the Treasurer, and Comptroller [of the Household]), she took her way into the Great Hall.
The Mourners came out of the Bishop's Palace; being set in order by the Heralds thus:
First 100 Releevants; poor old women, for the most part widows: in black cloth gowns, with an ell of white Holland over their heads; which they had for their labour, and nine shillings apiece in money. These divided themselves in the body of the Church; and stood half on the one side, and half on the other: and there stood during the whole Solemnity.
At the Church door, the Singing Men and Quiristers met the Mourners with a Psalm; and led them the way into the Chancel, continuing singing, with the Organ, until the Sermon began.
Then followed two Yeomen, viz.: the Sheriff [of Northamptonshire]^ Bailiff and the Bailiff of Peterborough; with black staves.
And after them [100 poor men, in] Mourning Coats.
Then Sir George Savile [aged 37], in a Mourning gown, carrying the great Standard: viz. a Cross on a Field azure; the Streamer, a Unicorn argent in a Field of guiles; a Posy written, In my defence, God me defend!
Then followed Mourning Cloaks, two by two, a great number: whereof the first were the late Queen's Officers.
And after them, Mourning Gowns.
Archaeologia Volume 1 Section 55. On Tuesday, being the first of August [1587], in the morning, about eight of the clock, the chief mourner, being the Countess of Bedford [aged 61], was attended upon by all the lords and ladies, and brought into the prefence chambre within the bifhop's palace, which all over was hanged with black cloath; me was by the queens majefties gentlemen uihers placed fomewhat under a cloth of eftate of purple velvet, where, having given to the great officers their ftaves of office, viz. to the lord lleward, lord chamberlayne, the treafurer, and comptroller, me took her way into the great hall, where the corps flood; and the heralds having marmalled the feveral companies, they made their proceedings as followeth.
Two conductors in black, with black staves.
Poor women mourners to the number of 100. 2 and 2.
Two yeomen harvengers.
The standard of Scotland borne by Sir George Savill, knight.
Gentlemen in clokes to the number of 50, being attendants on the lords and ladies.
Six grooms of the chamber, viz. Mr ... Eaton, Mr .... Bykye, Mr .... Ceavaval, Mr Flynr, Mr .... Charlton, Mr .... Lylle.
Three gentlemen sfewers to the queen's majesty, Mr. Horseman, Mr. Fynes, and Mr. Martin.
Gentlemen in gownes, Mr. Worme, Mr. Holland, Mr. Crewste, Mr. Watson, Mr. Allington, Mr. Barrel, and Mr. Fescue.
Scots in clokes, 17 in number.
A Scottish prieft.
Mr. Fortescue, master of the wardrobe to the queens majestie.
The bishop of Peterborough.
The bishop of Lincoln.
The great banner, borne by Sir Andrew Nowell, knight.
The comptroller, Mr. Melvin.
The treasurer, Sir Edward Montague. The lord Chamberlayne, was Lord Dudley.
The lord steward, was Lord St. John of Basing.
Two ushers.
Atchievements of honor born by heralds. The healme and crest borne by Portcullis, target, borne by York, sword, borne by Rouge Dragon. coat, borne by Somerset.
Clarencieux king of arms, with a gentleman usher, Mr. Conyngsbye.
The corps born by esquires in clokes. Mr. Francis Fortescue. Mr. William Fortescue. Mr. Thomas Stafford. Mr. Nicholas Smith. Mr. Nicholas Hyde. Mr .... Howlands, the bishop's brother. Eight bannerolles, borne by esquires:
King Robert impaling Drummond, By Mr. WilliamFittz Williams.
King James the 1st impaling Beaufort, Mr. Griffin of Dingley.
Guelders, Mr. Robert Wingfield.
King James 3d impaling Denmark, Mr. Bevill.
King James 4th impaling the arms of Henry 7th of England, Mr Lynne.
King James £th impaling Guys, Mr John Wingfield
King of France impaling the arms of Mary queen of Scotland, Mr SPencer
Lord Darnley impaling the arms! of Mary queen of Scotland, Mr. John Fortefcue Aywood.
The canopy, being of black velvet fringed with gold, borne by four knights, viz. Sir Thomas Manners, Sir George Hastings, Sir James Harrington, Sir Richard Knightly.
Assistants to the body, Four barons which bore up the corners of the pall of velvet. The Lord Mordant. The Lord Willoughby of Parham. The Lord Compton. Sir Thomas Cecill.
Mr. Garter, with the gentleman umer, Mr. Brakenbnry.
The Countesse of Bedford, supported by the Earls of [her former step-son] Rutland [aged 36], and [her son-in-law] Lincolne [aged 46], her train borne up by the Lady St. John of Basting, and assisted by Mr. John Manners, vice chamberlain.
The Countesse of Rutland [aged 34], [her daughter] Countesse of Lincolne. The Lady Talbot, Lady Mary Savell. The Lady Mordant, the Lady St. John of Bletshoe. The Lady Manners, the Lady Cecill. The Lady Montague, the Lady Nowell. Mrs. AHngton, Mrs. Curle.
Two ushers.
Eight Scottish gentlewomen.
The gentlewomen of Countess's and Baroness's, according to their degrees, all in Black.
Servants in black coates. The Countess of Bedford, 10. Countesse of Rutland, 8. Countesse of Lincoln, 8. Lady St. John of Basing, 5. All lords and ladyes, 5. All knights and their wives 4, All equires, 1.
On 31st March 1599 [her son] Charles Morrison [aged 50] died. He was buried at St Marys Church, Watford.
On 13th January 1601 Bridget Hussey Countess Bedford [aged 75] died. She was originally interred at St Marys Church, Watford. The monument was probably moved when the Bedford Chapel, St Michael's Church, Chenies was extended in 1906. Francis Norreys 1st Earl Berkshire [aged 21] inherited £3000.
Marble altar tomb chest with flat vertical pilaster strips; on sides and ends are shields with arms. Recumbent effigy of alabaster, coloured in robes of a peeress with ruff and close fitting cap. At the left and right of the tomb chest, on little stands, are two kneeling male figures in armour, carved in full relief, both facing West, thought to represent her grandsons Francis Norreys 1st Earl Berkshire and - Francis, Lord Norreys and Sir Charles Morrison Bt.
The History of William Marshal was commissioned by his son shortly after William’s death in 1219 to celebrate the Marshal’s remarkable life; it is an authentic, contemporary voice. The manuscript was discovered in 1861 by French historian Paul Meyer. Meyer published the manuscript in its original Anglo-French in 1891 in two books. This book is a line by line translation of the first of Meyer’s books; lines 1-10152. Book 1 of the History begins in 1139 and ends in 1194. It describes the events of the Anarchy, the role of William’s father John, John’s marriages, William’s childhood, his role as a hostage at the siege of Newbury, his injury and imprisonment in Poitou where he met Eleanor of Aquitaine and his life as a knight errant. It continues with the accusation against him of an improper relationship with Margaret, wife of Henry the Young King, his exile, and return, the death of Henry the Young King, the rebellion of Richard, the future King Richard I, war with France, the death of King Henry II, and the capture of King Richard, and the rebellion of John, the future King John. It ends with the release of King Richard and the death of John Marshal.
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Richard Morrison and Bridget Hussey Countess Bedford were married.
[her daughter] Elizabeth Morrison Countess Lincoln was born to Richard Morrison and Bridget Hussey Countess Bedford. She married (1) her fifth cousin William Norreys, son of Henry Norreys 1st Baron Norreys of Rycote and Margery Williams Baroness Norreys Rycote, and had issue (2) 20th October 1586 her fifth cousin Henry Clinton 2nd Earl Lincoln, son of Edward Clinton 1st Earl Lincoln and Ursula Stourton Baroness Clinton, and had issue.
[her daughter] Mary Morrison was born to Richard Morrison and Bridget Hussey Countess Bedford.
[her daughter] Amy Morison was born to Richard Morrison and Bridget Hussey Countess Bedford. She married in or before 1541 Robert Beale and had issue.
Kings Wessex: Great x 14 Grand Daughter of King Edmund "Ironside" I of England
Kings Gwynedd: Great x 11 Grand Daughter of Owain "Great" King Gwynedd
Kings Seisyllwg: Great x 17 Grand Daughter of Hywel "Dda aka Good" King Seisyllwg King Deheubarth
Kings Powys: Great x 12 Grand Daughter of Maredudd ap Bleddyn King Powys
Kings Godwinson: Great x 15 Grand Daughter of King Harold II of England
Kings England: Great x 5 Grand Daughter of King Edward III of England
Kings Scotland: Great x 13 Grand Daughter of King Duncan I of Scotland
Kings Franks: Great x 21 Grand Daughter of Charles "Charlemagne aka Great" King of the Franks King Lombardy Holy Roman Emperor
Kings France: Great x 15 Grand Daughter of Hugh I King of the Franks
Kings Duke Aquitaine: Great x 18 Grand Daughter of Ranulf I Duke Aquitaine
Great x 1 Grandfather: John Hussey 
GrandFather: William Hussey
Great x 1 Grandmother: Elizabeth Nesfield
Father: John Hussey 1st Baron Hussey of Sleaford 9 x Great Grand Son of King John of England
Great x 4 Grandfather: John Berkeley 
4 x Great Grand Son of King John of England
Great x 3 Grandfather: John Berkeley 5 x Great Grand Son of King John of England
Great x 4 Grandmother: Elizabeth Unknown
Great x 2 Grandfather: Lawrence Berkeley 6 x Great Grand Son of King John of England
Great x 3 Grandmother: Isabel Clifford 
Great x 1 Grandfather: Thomas Berkeley 7 x Great Grand Son of King John of England
Great x 3 Grandfather: John Woodford
Great x 2 Grandmother: Joan Woodford
GrandMother: Elizabeth Berkeley 8 x Great Grand Daughter of King John of England
Great x 2 Grandfather: William Brooksby
Great x 1 Grandmother: Petronella Brooksby
Bridget Hussey Countess Bedford 5 x Great Grand Daughter of King Edward III of England
Great x 4 Grandfather: Reginald Grey 2nd Baron Grey Ruthyn 
7 x Great Grand Son of King Henry I "Beauclerc" England
Great x 3 Grandfather: Reginald Grey 3rd Baron Grey Ruthyn 5 x Great Grand Son of King John of England
Great x 4 Grandmother: Alianore Strange Baroness Grey Ruthyn 
4 x Great Grand Daughter of King John of England
Great x 2 Grandfather: John Grey 4 x Great Grand Son of King Edward I of England
Great x 4 Grandfather: Thomas Ros 4th Baron Ros Helmsley 
5 x Great Grand Son of King Henry "Curtmantle" II of England
Great x 3 Grandmother: Margaret Ros Baroness Grey Ruthyn 3 x Great Grand Daughter of King Edward I of England
Great x 4 Grandmother: Beatrice Stafford Countess Desmond 
2 x Great Grand Daughter of King Edward I of England
Great x 1 Grandfather: Edmund Grey 1st Earl Kent 2 x Great Grand Son of King Edward III of England
Great x 4 Grandfather: Thomas Holland 1st Earl Kent 
4 x Great Grand Son of King Henry "Curtmantle" II of England
Great x 3 Grandfather: John Holland 1st Duke Exeter Great Grand Son of King Edward I of England
Great x 4 Grandmother: Joan "Fair Maid of Kent" Princess Wales 
Grand Daughter of King Edward I of England
Great x 2 Grandmother: Constance Holland Countess Norfolk and Nottingham Great Grand Daughter of King Edward III of England
Great x 4 Grandfather: John of Gaunt 1st Duke Lancaster Son of King Edward III of England
Great x 3 Grandmother: Elizabeth Lancaster Duchess Exeter 
Grand Daughter of King Edward III of England
Great x 4 Grandmother: Blanche Duchess of Lancaster 
2 x Great Grand Daughter of King Henry III of England
GrandFather: George Grey 2nd Earl Kent 3 x Great Grand Son of King Edward III of England
Great x 4 Grandfather: Henry Percy 1st Earl of Northumberland 2 x Great Grand Son of King Henry III of England
Great x 3 Grandfather: Henry "Hotspur" Percy 3 x Great Grand Son of King Henry III of England
Great x 4 Grandmother: Margaret Neville 
4 x Great Grand Daughter of King Henry "Curtmantle" II of England
Great x 2 Grandfather: Henry Percy 2nd Earl of Northumberland 2 x Great Grand Son of King Edward III of England
Great x 4 Grandfather: Edmund Mortimer 3rd Earl March, Earl of Ulster 
6 x Great Grand Son of King Henry "Curtmantle" II of England
Great x 3 Grandmother: Elizabeth Mortimer Baroness Camoys Great Grand Daughter of King Edward III of England
Great x 4 Grandmother: Philippa Plantagenet Countess March 2nd Countess Ulster 
Grand Daughter of King Edward III of England
Great x 1 Grandmother: Katherine Percy 2 x Great Grand Daughter of King Edward III of England
Great x 4 Grandfather: John Neville 3rd Baron Neville of Raby 4 x Great Grand Son of King Henry "Curtmantle" II of England
Great x 3 Grandfather: Ralph Neville 1st Earl of Westmoreland 5 x Great Grand Son of King Henry "Curtmantle" II of England
Great x 4 Grandmother: Maud Percy Baroness Neville Raby 5 x Great Grand Daughter of King Henry "Curtmantle" II of England
Great x 2 Grandmother: Eleanor Neville Countess Northumberland Great Grand Daughter of King Edward III of England
Great x 4 Grandfather: John of Gaunt 1st Duke Lancaster Son of King Edward III of England
Great x 3 Grandmother: Joan Beaufort Countess of Westmoreland Grand Daughter of King Edward III of England
Great x 4 Grandmother: Katherine Swynford aka Roet Duchess Lancaster 
Mother: Anne Grey Baroness Hussey Sleaford 4 x Great Grand Daughter of King Edward III of England
Great x 2 Grandfather: William ap Thomas "Blue Knight of Gwent" Herbert 
Great x 1 Grandfather: William Herbert 1st Earl Pembroke
Great x 4 Grandfather: Llewellyn Brecon
Great x 3 Grandfather: Dafydd Gam Brecon
Great x 2 Grandmother: Gwladys ferch Dafydd Gam "Star of Abergavenny" Brecon
GrandMother: Katherine Herbert Countess Kent 9 x Great Grand Daughter of King John of England
Great x 4 Grandfather: Walter Devereux 
5 x Great Grand Son of King John of England
Great x 3 Grandfather: Walter Devereux 6 x Great Grand Son of King John of England
Great x 2 Grandfather: Walter Devereux 7 x Great Grand Son of King John of England
Great x 4 Grandfather: Thomas Crophull 5 x Great Grand Son of King John of England
Great x 3 Grandmother: Agnes Crophull 6 x Great Grand Daughter of King John of England
Great x 1 Grandmother: Anne Devereux 8 x Great Grand Daughter of King John of England
Great x 2 Grandmother: Elizabeth Merbury