The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy
The Gesta Normannorum Ducum [The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy] is a landmark medieval chronicle tracing the rise and fall of the Norman dynasty from its early roots through the pivotal events surrounding the Norman Conquest of England. Originally penned in Latin by the monk William of Jumièges shortly before 1060 and later expanded at the behest of William the Conqueror, the work chronicles the deeds, politics, battles, and leadership of the Norman dukes, especially William’s own claim to the English throne. The narrative combines earlier historical sources with firsthand information and oral testimony to present an authoritative account of Normandy’s transformation from a Viking settlement into one of medieval Europe’s most powerful realms. William’s history emphasizes the legitimacy, military prowess, and governance of the Norman line, framing their expansion, including the conquest of England, as both divinely sanctioned and noble in purpose. Later chroniclers such as Orderic Vitalis and Robert of Torigni continued the history, extending the coverage into the 12th century, providing broader context on ducal rule and its impact. Today this classic work remains a foundational source for understanding Norman identity, medieval statesmanship, and the historical forces that reshaped England and Western Europe between 800AD and 1100AD.
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South Acre, Norfolk is in Norfolk.
In 1275 Sir Roger Harsick was lord, and had freewarren in South Acre, Norfolk, view of frankpledge by the King's bailiff's permission, and assise of bread and beer.
In 1309 a charter of free-warren in South Acre, Norfolk, and in Dunham Magna, was granted to John de Harsyck, and Christian his wife.
Before 1562 Robert Bell [aged 22] and Dorothie Beaupré [aged 23] were married. She had the manor of South Acre, Norfolk assigned to her.
On 22nd July 1577 Robert Bell [aged 38] was appointed Chief Baron of the Exchequer. Edmund Bell [aged 15] inherited the manor of South Acre, Norfolk.
On or before 22nd December 1607 Edmund Bell [aged 45] died. He was buried on 22nd December 1607. His heirs sold the manor of South Acre, Norfolk to Edward Barkham [aged 37].
In 1703 the daughters of William Barkham 3rd Baronet, Dorothy Barkham, Frances Barkham and Jane Barkham conveyed the manor of South Acre, Norfolk to Andrew Fountaine [aged 70].
On 23rd March 1921 Lieutenant Andrew Jervis Hawkins was born at South Acre, Norfolk.
William Dorward of Dorward Hall in Bocking in Essex and Margaret Harsick were married. She inherited the manor of South Acre, Norfolk.
Thomas Fotheringay of Brockley in Suffolk and Elizabeth Dorward were married. She inherited the manor of South Acre, Norfolk.
Nicholas Beaupre of Beaupre Hall in Outwell and Margaret Fotheringay were married. She inherited the manor of South Acre, Norfolk.