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.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
Around 1496 Edward Hall was born to [his father] John Hall of Northall Kynnersley Shropshire.
In 1514 Edward Hall (age 18) was admitted to King's College, Cambridge University [Map].
In 1518 Edward Hall (age 22) graduated Bachelor of Arts.
In 1521 Edward Hall (age 25) was a student at Gray's Inn.
On 22nd February 1528 [his father] John Hall of Northall Kynnersley Shropshire died.
In 1529 Edward Hall (age 33) was elected MP Much Wenlock.
In 1539 Edward Hall (age 43) was elected MP Much Wenlock.
In 1542 Edward Hall (age 46) was elected MP Bridgnorth.
In 1545 Edward Hall (age 49) was elected MP Bridgnorth.
Around 1546 Edward Hall (age 50) made his will in which he names his brother William Hall is named as executor.
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.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
Around May 1547 Edward Hall (age 51) died. He was buried in St Benet Sherehog Cordwainer Ward.
Chronicle of Edward Hall [1496-1548]. Or to give it its full name, The Union of the Two Noble and Illustre Families of Lancastre and Yorke, was first published in 1548. It was written by Edward Hall.