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Chronicle of Geoffrey le Baker of Swinbroke
Baker was a secular clerk from Swinbroke, now Swinbrook, an Oxfordshire village two miles east of Burford. His Chronicle describes the events of the period 1303-1356: Gaveston, Bannockburn, Boroughbridge, the murder of King Edward II, the Scottish Wars, Sluys, Crécy, the Black Death, Winchelsea and Poitiers. To quote Herbert Bruce 'it possesses a vigorous and characteristic style, and its value for particular events between 1303 and 1356 has been recognised by its editor and by subsequent writers'. The book provides remarkable detail about the events it describes. Baker's text has been augmented with hundreds of notes, including extracts from other contemporary chronicles, such as the Annales Londonienses, Annales Paulini, Murimuth, Lanercost, Avesbury, Guisborough and Froissart to enrich the reader's understanding. The translation takes as its source the 'Chronicon Galfridi le Baker de Swynebroke' published in 1889, edited by Edward Maunde Thompson.
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12 Mar is in March.
On 12th March 604 Pope Gregory I (age 64) died.
On 12th March 1096 Canute Lavard was born to Eric I King of Denmark (age 36).
On 12th March 1270 Charles Valois I Count Valois was born to King Philip III of France (age 24) and Isabella Barcelona Queen Consort France (age 22). He a great x 3 grandson of King Henry "Curtmantle" II of England. He married (1) 16th August 1290 his second cousin Margaret Capet Countess Valois and had issue (2) 1302 his third cousin once removed Catherine Courtenay Countess Valois and had issue (3) 1308 his second cousin once removed Mahaut Chatillon Countess Valois, daughter of Guy Chatillon IV Count Saint Pol and Marie Capet, and had issue.
At the time when King Edward was holding the siege before Berwick, news of him spread into France. Many young knights and squires who desired to follow arms, advance themselves, and win honor were stirred to go there to serve the noble King of England, whose fame increased from day to day. Among the others, the young Count John of Namur1, Sir Guy2 and Sir Philip3, his brothers, likewise wished to go there to see that young King of England and his estate, and also that of the King of Scotland, and especially to see Sir Robert of Artois, their uncle, for they knew well that he stood in high favor in the company of King Edward. They therefore provided themselves with a fine company of men-at-arms, as befitted their rank, in order to undertake such a journey. When they were organized, equipped, and ready, they set out and traveled until they arrived in England, where they asked the road to the place where the king was. They were shown the direct way: to London, from London to York, from York to Durham, and from Durham to Newcastle upon the River Tyne.
En ce temps que cil roy Edowart tenoit le siege devant Berwik vint la renommée en France de luy, par quoy moult de jœunes chevaliers et escuiers qui desiroient à siewir les armes et avanchier leurs corps et venir à honneur s'esmurent pour aler celle part servir le noble roy d'Angleterre, de quy la renommée multiplioit de jour en jour. Entre les aultres, le jœune conte Jehan de Namur?, messire Guy et messire Philippe, ses n freres, eurent aussy talent d'aler celle part veoir celluy jœune roy d'Angleterre et son estat et cil du roy d'Escoce, et principalment pour veoir messire Robert d'Artois, leur oncle, car bien sçavoient qu'il estoit en bel estat en la compaignie de celluy roy Edowart. Si se pourveirent de belle compaignie de gens d'armes selonc ce qu'il afferoit à leur estat pour faire tel voyage. Quant ilz furent ordonnez, porveuz et aprestez, il se partirent en alant tant qu'ilz arriverent en Angleterre et demanderrent le chemin pour aler là où le roy estoit. On leur enseigna le chemin droit à Londres et de Londres à Eurwick et de Eurwick à Duramme et de Duramme au Neuf Chastel, sur la riviere de Tyen.
Note 1. John II of Namur (age 19) succeeded his father, John I, on 1st February 1330, and died on 2nd April 1335, without having been married.
1. Jean II de Namur succéda à son père Jean Ier, le 1er février 1330, et mourut le 2 avril 1335, sans avoir été marié.
Note 2. Guy II (age 24), brother of John II, succeeded him and was killed in a tournament on 12th March 1336, leaving no heir.
2. Gui II, frère de Jean II, lui succéda et fut tué dans un tournoi le 12 mars 1336, sans laisser d'héritier.
Note 3. Philip III (age 11), brother of Guy, succeeded him and was killed on the island of Cyprus in September 1337, without having been married.
3. Philippe Ill, frère de Gui, lui succéda et fut tué dans l'île de Chypre au mois de septembre 1337, sans avoir été marié.
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On 12th March 1336 Edward Duke Guelders was born to Reginald "Black" I Duke Guelders (age 41) and Eleanor of Woodstock Plantagenet (age 17). He a grandson of King Edward II of England.
On 12th March 1336 Guy Dampierre II Count Namur (age 24) was killed in a tournament. His brother Philip (age 17) succeeded III Marquis Namur.
William of Worcester's Chronicle of England
William of Worcester, born around 1415, and died around 1482 was secretary to John Fastolf, the renowned soldier of the Hundred Years War, during which time he collected documents, letters, and wrote a record of events. Following their return to England in 1440 William was witness to major events. Twice in his chronicle he uses the first person: 1. when writing about the murder of Thomas, 7th Baron Scales, in 1460, he writes '… and I saw him lying naked in the cemetery near the porch of the church of St. Mary Overie in Southwark …' and 2. describing King Edward IV's entry into London in 1461 he writes '… proclaimed that all the people themselves were to recognize and acknowledge Edward as king. I was present and heard this, and immediately went down with them into the city'. William’s Chronicle is rich in detail. It is the source of much information about the Wars of the Roses, including the term 'Diabolical Marriage' to describe the marriage of Queen Elizabeth Woodville’s brother John’s marriage to Katherine, Dowager Duchess of Norfolk, he aged twenty, she sixty-five or more, and the story about a paper crown being placed in mockery on the severed head of Richard, 3rd Duke of York.
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On 12th March 1385 Isabel Plantagenet was born to Thomas of Woodstock 1st Duke of Gloucester (age 30) and Eleanor Bohun Duchess Gloucester (age 19). She a granddaughter of King Edward III of England. Coefficient of inbreeding 1.67%.
Patent Rolls. 12th March 1461. Westminster Palace [Map]. Commission to the king's kinsman Richard, Earl of Warwick (age 32), to receive deserters from the party of King Henry VI of England and II of France (age 39) and to cause proclamations to be made to the effect, and to seize the possessions of all recusants. By K (age 18) by word of mouth.
On 12th March 1470 King Edward IV of England (age 27) commanded at the Battle of Losecoat Field (Empingham).
Thomas Dymoke (age 42) and Richard Welles 7th Baron Welles, Baron Willoughby (age 42) were beheaded at Queen's Cross, Stamford before the battle1. His son Robert succeeded 8th Baron Welles.
The name 'Losecoat' not contemporary, and its meaning of men "losing their coats" may have been invented in the 19th Century. The name Losecoat appears to be first used in the 16th Century Hall's and Holinshed's Chronicles.
The 1475 attainder of Richard and Robert Welles refers to the battle having taken place "in a field called 'Hornefeld' in Empyngham",
Note 1. Some sources say on battlefield immediately prior to the battle, some after the batte
Chronicle of Jean de Waurin Books 3-5 [1400-1474]. 12th March 1470. And when he learned that indeed Sir Robert Welles did not cease from his false and disloyal enterprise, but instead showed himself firmly as his adversary and was armed with a deployed banner, the King and the great lords with him decided that it was neither expedient nor honourable for the King to expose himself to the risk of battle without first obtaining justice against Sir Robert Welles and his accomplices for the perverse and disloyal treason they had committed against his royal majesty. Thus, the King immediately commanded that under his banner they [Thomas Dymoke (age 42) and Richard Welles 7th Baron Welles, Baron Willoughby (age 42)] be executed on the spot, which was done. Having executed this order, the King then marched his army forward toward the rebels.
Et quant il sceut que veritablement ledit sire Robert de Vellus ne desistoit pas de sa faulse et desleale emprinse, ains se moustroit formeement son adversaire et estoit en armes a baniere desploiee, fut advise par le roy et les grans seigneurs estans avecques luy quil nestoit pas expedient ne honnourable au roy de exposer sa personne en adventure de bataille sans premiers avoir justice lesdis seigneur de Vellus et ses complices prisonniers pour les parverses et desloyalles trahisons par eulz commises a lencontre de sa royalle mageste, si commanda le roy presentement sur les champz desoubz sa baniere yceulz estre executez jusques a mort, comme ilz furent; et ce fait fist le roy marchier son ost avant vers lesdis rebelles.
Chronicle of Jean de Waurin Books 3-5 [1400-1474]. 12th March 1470. And as the battles met, the commoners cried out "Clarence, Warwick!" for Sir Robert Welles, their captain, wore the livery of the Duke of Clarence. But it pleased Our Lord to send victory to King Edward over his enemies, who numbered more than thirty thousand men, the majority of whom would have been slain if not for the abundant grace and kindness of the King, who, seeing their defeat, made every effort to cease the said killing to save his subjects.
Et au joindre les batailles les communes cryoient "Clarence a Warewic!" el portoit messire Robert de Vellus, leur capittaine, la livree du duc de Clarence; mais il pleut a Nostre Seigneur envoier au roy Edouard la victore sur ses annemis, qui estoient plus de trente mille hommes, dont la pluspart eussent este occis se ne feust la plentureuse grace et benignite du roy, qui, voiant leur descomfiture, se mist, en paine et labeur de faire cesser la ditte occision pour saulver ses subgectz.
Warkworth's Chronicle [1461-1474]. [12th March 1470] And so the Kynge (age 27) toke his oste and went towarde his enemyes, and losyde his gonnys of his ordynaunce uppone them, and faught with them, and anone the comons fledde away; but ther was many manne slayne of Lyncolneschyre, and the Lorde Wellys, Sere Thomas Delalonde, and Sere Thomas Dymmoke (age 42), knights, takene and beheddede.
Chronicle of Robert Fabyan [-1512]. 12th March 1470. And in Lyncolnshyre sir Robert Wellys, sone unto the lorde Wellys before put to deth, in this whyle had also assembled a great bende of men, purposyd to gyue the kynge a felde. Of all whiche tydynges whenne the kynge was assertayned, he with his sayde broder the duke spedde hym northwarde, and in that whyle sent to the sayde sir Robert Wellys, wyllyng hym to sende home his people and come to hym, and he shuld haue his grace. But that other answerid, that by lyke promysse his fader was disceyued, and that shulde be his example. But in conclusion, whan the kynge with his power drewe nere unto hym, he toke suche fere that he fledde, and soone after was taken, and with hym sir Thomas Dymmok (age 42), knyght, and other, the whiche were shortly after put to deth.
Chronicle of Edward Hall [1496-1548]. 12th March 1470. And in the meane season, he with hys army went forward towarde his enemyes, hauynge with hym the lorde Welles, and syr Thomas Dymocke, and beynge not past two dayes iorney from Stamford, where hys enemies had pitched their felde, had perryt knowlege that syr Robert Welles nothyng moued with hys fathers letters, styl kept his campe, abyding the kyng and his power. The kynge hauyng hygh indignacion at hys presumpcion and mynded to be revenged in parte, cotrary to his faith and promise caused the lord Welles, father to the saide syr Robert and syr Thomas Dymocke to be behedded there, to the terrible example of other, which shal put their confidece in the promise of a prince. Whe syr Robert Welles hard that the kyng drew nere, and that hys father (age 42) & syr Thomas Dymocke (age 42) ware behedded, he stode firste in a greate perplexitie, studyeng whither he should gyue battail or no, because it was both perilous and doughtfull to fight with so great an arrnye, before the erle of Warwycke with hys power were assembled, but yet hauyng a yonge and a lusty courage, and with manly boldnes stimulate, and pricked forward, he set on hys enemyes.
The battayle was sore fought on bothe partes, & many a man slayne And in conclusion, whyle syr Robert was exhortyng and prouokynge hys men to tary, which were in manerdisconfit, and redy to flye, he was enuyroned and beset aboute with his enemyes, and so was taken, and with hym syr Thomas Delaund knyght and many mo. After hys takyng, the Lyncolnshyre men amased, threw away their coates, the lighter to runneaway, and ded, and therfore thys battayl is yet there called Losecote felde. The kyng, glad of this victory, commaunded out of hand syr Robert Welles and divers other, to be put to execucio in the same place. The fame was, that at thys battayll were slayne. x. M. men at the least.
Holinshed's Chronicle [1525-1582]. 12th March 1470. sir Robert Welles, hearing that the king approched, and that his father (age 42) and sir Thomas Dimmocke (age 42) were beheaded, though he was somewhat doubtfull to fight, before the earle of Warwike were with his power assembled, yet hauing a yoong and lustie courage, manfullie set on his enimies. The battell was sore fought on both sides, and manie a man slaine; till sir Robert, perceiving his people at point to flie, was busilie in hand to exhort them to tarie, and in the meane time compassed about with enimies was there taken, £& with him sir Thomas de Land knight, and manie more. After the taking of their capteine, the Lincolneshire men amazed, threw awaie their coats the lighter to run awaie, and fled amaine, and therefore this battell is called there yet unto tins daie, Losecote field.
On 12th March 1479 Giuliano Medici Duke Nemours was born to Lorenzo de Medici (age 30) and Clarice Orsini (age 29) at Florence, Tuscany. He married 22nd February 1515 Philiberta of Savoy, daughter of Philip "Landless" Savoy II Duke Savoy and Claudine Brosse.
On 12th March 1487 William Gascoigne (age 35) died at Gawthorpe Hall [Map]. All Saints Church Harewood [Map]. Monument to William Gascoigne and Margaret Percy (age 40). Fluted Period. Alabaster chest tomb with a fine array of weepers, possibly their children although too many, women one side, nine men the other, one of which appears with angels wings, possible children and spouses. He wearing a Lancastrian Esses Collar with unusual O links. Clean shaved, no bascinet, his head resting on a helm with bulls head crest. His armour plate over which there appears to be, unusually for the period, a tabard. The left hand side of his face appears disfigured. Possibly a war wound. She wearing the widow's barbe. Note. Gardner describes this monument as being to Sir John Nevill of Womersley, died 1482. Chest with Weepers. Chest with Angels with Rounded Wings holding Shields. Angels Supporting Pillow.
William Gascoigne: Around 1452 he was born to William Gascoigne XIII and Joan Neville at Gawthorpe Hall [Map]. He a great x 4 grandson of King Edward III of England. Before 1467 William Gascoigne and Margaret Percy were married. She the daughter of Henry Percy 3rd Earl of Northumberland and Eleanor Poynings Countess Northumberland. They were half second cousin once removed. He a great x 4 grandson of King Edward III of England. She a great x 3 granddaughter of King Edward III of England. In 1478 he was appointed Knight of the Bath. In 1480 William Gascoigne received a license to crenellate at Gawthorpe Hall [Map].
Margaret Percy: Around 1447 she was born to Henry Percy 3rd Earl of Northumberland and Eleanor Poynings Countess Northumberland. She a great x 3 granddaughter of King Edward III of England.
Chronicle of a Bourgeois of Valenciennes
Récits d’un bourgeois de Valenciennes aka The Chronicle of a Bourgeois of Valenciennes is a vivid 14th-century vernacular chronicle written by an anonymous urban chronicler from Valenciennes in the County of Hainaut. It survives in a manuscript that describes local and regional history from about 1253 to 1366, blending chronology, narrative episodes, and eyewitness-style accounts of political, military, and social events in medieval France, Flanders, and the Low Countries. The work begins with a chronological framework of events affecting Valenciennes and its region under rulers such as King Philip VI of France and the shifting allegiances of local nobility. It includes accounts of conflicts, sieges, diplomatic manoeuvres, and the impact of broader struggles like the Hundred Years’ War on urban life in Hainaut. Written from the perspective of a burgher (bourgeois) rather than a monastery or royal court, the chronicle offers a rare lay viewpoint on high politics and warfare, reflecting how merchants, townspeople, and civic institutions experienced the turbulence of the 13th and 14th centuries. Its narrative style combines straightforward reporting of events with moral and civic observations, making it a valuable source for readers interested in medieval urban society, regional politics, and the lived experience of war and governance in pre-modern Europe.
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On 12th March 1491 Robert Chamberlayne (age 53) was beheaded at Tower Hill [Map].
On 12th March 1500 Cardinal Reginald Pole was born to Richard Pole (age 38) and Margaret York aka Pole Countess of Salisbury (age 26) at Stourton Castle, Staffordshire. He a great x 4 grandson of King Edward III of England.
Letters and Papers. 12th March 1536. Vit. B. xxi. 141. B. M. 458. Thos. Tebold to Earl of Wiltshire (age 59).
"Please it your Lordship to understand .... I have received your most loving letters wh .... of Reygnard Wolfe, for the which I most ho .... Lordship, praying God to give me that power aug .... may once with my service and diligent endeavour reco[mpense] your great goodness, to the which my heart shall never .... [de]syrying your Lordship to continue this your good w[ill tow]erd me so long as you shall perceive me most willing [and] diligent to accomplish your pleasure, and to do that thy[ng] which I shall judge to be acceptable to you."
This money came to me happily for two causes, because I fear war and because I have spent much in riding to Norenberg, Wy[ten]berg, Augusta, and Ulmes, from all which places I have written to you. I have had letters of commendation to the learned men there. It is costly at Tubynge, for you desired me to haunt the acquaintance of the best, and I am familiarly acquainted with the bishop of the town, the bishop and reformator of the whole country, the governor of the town, and most of the professors, being better esteemed than perhaps I am worthy, and of more credit than it becomes me to rehearse. The expense has not been very great, for I had not more than 30 li. in bank at leaving England, and I have come a long journey, not knowing the language, and stopped on my way at Collen, Franckford, and Heydylberg, where the Palsgrave was married, besides being sick for five or six weeks. I have also bought books and raiment, and made journeys to Wyttemberge, Ausborge, and Noremberg, which cost me about seven weeks, and there are also my commons at Tubyng. I reckon the money well bestowed, for I have seen most of the chiefest cities in Almayne, and spoken with many of the best learned men. I could now travel to all these parts without a guide, and, if you were disposed, could cause works both in divinity and other subjects to be dedicated to you. You commanded me to tell you how I have profited in the Almain tongue and the Latin tongue, and al[though] I have tarried but little in one place since my coming .... "kn .... [un]derstand the most part what the * * * I un .... he speaketh more and better th ....but that is but for lack of use, which, God willing, I will shortly .... my return recover. Further, your Lordship may demand of Reygnard W[olfe] .... yn tongue I have had no great time or rest since my coming hither to have yn .... re than I had before when I was in Lovayne by reason .... use in speaking Latin that I had there the Latin tongue .... as familiar unto me as English, and I had as leve have [spoken] Latin as English;" but my being in France and learning French has made me less prompt, but a little use will make me prompter. I think, however, that I speak as readily as the common sort here, and I have daily communication with the best learned men, who commonly speak not all the readiest for lack of use. I will diligently labour at these two tongues. As for uttering my mind in speaking, I do not fear to whom I speak, not for excellency, but for true Latin, without studying or stumbling. As to leaving Tubyng, which you refer to my decision, I shall not depart this summer, because at Strosborge, where I intended to have gone, they begin to die of the pestilence, and I had rather go there toward winter. Another cause is that a young kinsman of Mons. de Langie has come here to study Latin and Dutch, having lived with Melancthon for a year at Wittenberg, and also at Nurenberg for a year. Langie has obtained 500 cr. a year for him from the King to stay at Tubing, and resort to the duke of Wirtemberg and others, who will communicate with the King through him. I expect to obtain news through him, and we intend to have private masters to read Dutch and good Latin authors. The Duke has given him a goodly lodging. He was lately with the dukes of Bavaria, from whom he had 100 cr. as a reward. He tells me that one of them has not forsaken the French king, and that the other wavers. If this is true, I suspect there is not such earnest hatred between them and our Duke as they pretend, but the rumour was spread that they might have occasion to muster and view their people. The truth will come out if the Emperor and French king once meddle earnestly together. The people of Bavare are esteemed the worst men of war in Dutchland and * * * "of the own . . I saw not two parsons off refuse .... y met to war. I never saw greater and stronger people and bett[er] .... nerallye, wearing their harness and bearing their p .... bardes and hand guns, triumphing in the way as the[y went, inso]much that a man would think they were lanceknights [brought] up and exercised all their life in war. When they w[ere assem]bled all afore the governour of the town he made a sm[all orai]son to them in Dutch, showing them that the Prince desired nor intended war against no man, but to live quietly in peace [with] his well-beloved subjects, notwithstanding he was adve[rtised] of certain envies which privately had conspired agai[nst] him and them, which suddenly would invade them unawares, and f .... them .... to provide against this great danger in time, he had cause[d] them to assemble to give them warning to be in readiness," giving every man an oath not to leave the country without licence. He desired them to be of good courage, for he would demand no money of his subjects, for he had plenty of money, wine and victuals, and friends to take his part. They were then ordered to go to the Prince's castle, and fetch as much wine and bread as they would. They brought the wine in pails and tubs, and quaffed merrily till they were drunk. The governor's good words and this liberality set these rustics so on fire and in love with their Duke that they desired nothing else but war, being content to go whither their Prince would. When the Prince goes to war he gives no wages to his subjects, but only meat and drink, and that slenderly, except when they are going to fight, when they have their bellies full of good wine. The duchy can raise nearly 30,000 foot and 300 or 400 horse. I think our Duke favours the French king, but he dissembles, for the Emperor is proving all his friends, and has commanded that whoever goes out of the Empire to help the French king shall never return except he be content to lose his head and his goods. I think this is because the Emperor demands Milan in his own name; "but for the .... it is thought here that the Pope is in league with the .... and the .... last letter to you it * * * themperor, howbeit some r .... [fa]vor in their heart on this matter the French king, for themper[or has] too much power already in Italy. The Emperor could not use .... more for his profit than at this time to be pre .... partly to establish them in Naples .... thought somewhat to favour the French king, and further . . make amity and accord with the other princes of Italy, at least [to] find the means that they do not meddle against him." It is thought that the Turk is procured to come on the other side against the Emperor. The French king has a good beginning for the invasion of Milan, for he has invaded great part of the lands of the duke of Savoy and the city of Berne. We hear that the duke of Savoy has fled to Milan. I enclose a copy of a letter from a preacher in the army of Berne to my host, who is preacher of Tubyng. Berne is one of the 12 confederated villages or cantons of Switzerland, and can raise 30,000 men born there, having 30 earldoms and 10 seniories. Shaffhowse, another canton, can make 15,000 or 16,000, and Friburg as many. Basyle is also one of their cantons. Strosborought, an imperial city, has no great country nor possessions, but there is no city in Almain so strong, and they are rich enough to support 30,000 men for two years, and have victuals to keep the city for four years. The strength of the 60 cities and 10 Imperials, besides the princes and bishops of the Empire, is very great. At my departure from Tubyng, I asked the bishop and reformator general of our duchy whether he would give me any commands for Franckforde or Strosborg. "Then he asked me if I had any acquaintance with Bucerus and .... and other learned men there .... said he * * * with him .... articles of the French .... n in receiving the Gospel sent to our Duke of late by an ambassador from him, which articles the Duke sent to him, requiring him with all speed to ma[ke] answer to them, which I read also, very clerkly written, condemning all their petitions as fantasies, follies, and great dissimula[tions] .... in words to have the name of an evan[gelist] .... follow it and express it in deed, for he will .... in a manner as afore both in the Pope, cery .... men, and divers other articles by the which he .... hatred in Almain than favour. But all men mock .... ambassy at Smalcaldia, concerning his petitions for .... the Gospel, and so they did likewise at Noremberg, as I [wrote] to your Lordship at large from thence."
Gives an account of the hospitality shown to him by the son of the Margrave of Baden at Phorseyne (Pforzheim), whose acquaintance he had made at Orleans. Supped at his castle, where his father, who is very old and sickly, has his lodging apart. "After much communication of many matters of France .... and by occasion I moved communication of war between .... mas he said his father had * * * that it was thought the Emperor should have from .... subjects in Almain 11,000 horsemen, but of .... he said he was sure, adding that 1,000 of them .... of the Palsgrave's provision, and 1,000 should [come] from about Colleyne." He said the French king would not have as many as he trusted and was promised, because of this strait command of the Emperor that all lanzknechts going to the French king should lose their heads, pretending that this war is in the name of the empire. Some who would have gone to the French king have already been hanged. He has sent to the Almain gentlemen and lanzknechts already in France, that if they will return at once they shall have favour and pardon, but if not their goods shall be confiscated, and they shall lose their heads if they ever return. They mentioned a baron and a gentleman or two who have already returned. Asked whether the Earl of Furstenberge would return, who is chief for the French king in these parts, and an old captain of his. They said he had nothing to lose, and did not care to return; but I have since heard that his brother has taken possession of a seniory of his. He said he was sure that the French king had not more than 6,000 or 7,000 lanzknechts, though the report is that he has 20,000, for as many would have gone to him if they had not been forbidden. Every one says they would rather serve the King than the Emperor, for the former gives more wages and pays them better, though he does the contrary with his own subjects. After supper the Prince led me over his court. The buildings are about as large as my lord of Canterbury's place at Otford, but not so goodly. It is very old. He showed me his great guns, harness, hand guns, &c. * * * ". . ller that ever I saw, yet I saw a very goodly one ...., .... castle at Wyttenberg, he showed me that th .... ed in his father's court 200 or 300 pars[ons] .... as goodly horses as ever I saw." He invited me to stay with him when I would. Great part of his lands lie beside Basele. I think he is of kin to the Emperor by his father, and to the dukes of Brande[nburg] by his mother. His father is a great papist, but I think he is in[diff]erent, for when he showed me his father's artillery, in which he has great pleasure, "I said to him in French that if I were in his taking I would have twice as many as there were and better, which should cost no great money. And he asked me how? And I said when his father died I would visit abbeys and religious houses where were many bells that did serve for no other purpose but to ring to dinner and supper, and to hypocrisy and superstition, with the which he might furnish himself in guns and hackbutts abundantly to defend his country, and with the monks' possessions he might bring up learned men to be of his council, for his great profit and the country, likewise to nourish with the said possessions also a great many of horsemen, in the which is all their pleasure, &c. At the which he fell in a great laughter that he could scarce stand; wherefore his gentlemen and doctors desired greatly to know what I said, but he would not tell them, forbidding me also to show them, for he would for [no] good that it should come to his father's ear that he rejoiced in such a matter." We hear by posts from Lyons that the French king has assembled more than 100,000 persons there. It is generally thought that our King and the Pope are helping him. These Brabantynes and Flemyngs do most ungoodly rail a[gainst] England and the King, and desire war with us, "saying that our King his grace is covy[to]use and layeth up money for them. This, with many other railing wor[ds], they use in all companies. Merchants of these high parts hath .... times of it, greatly mocking them becau[se] .... yevel men of * * * that they know us no more.
".... to understand that at this present I spake with two merchants of .... of my old acquaintance which do occupy much to .... lly to Lyone, wherefore the merchants having a post .... showed me that they were certified in letters from thence, that [the French] king had lately viewed his host," and had given to William [earl] of Furstenberg, the captain of the lanceknights (6,000 or 7,000 in number), a chain of gold worth 1,000 cr., a chain to all the other captains, and a crown to each lanceknight. Earl Frederick, brother to Earl William, will be captain for the Emperor of 4,000 horse and 10,000 lanceknights. They showed me a tale of the Pope's treason against the Emperor such as I wrote before. The people here commonly favour the Emperor, especially the Imperial cities, for the Emperor pretends that he is warring for the profit of the empire, "and to subdue to them and not to himself." They say that he intends to make Florence a city Imperial; but I fear he will keep his conquests for himself, as Philip, the father of Alexander the Great, did. A mad foolish fellow and unlearned, named Cochlæus, who is with duke Frederick, the brother or uncle of the duke of Saxony, has madly and railingly written against the King for the death of More and Fisher and other matters. Your Lordship shall receive the book from Reygnard Wolfe. Among learned men Cochlæus is esteemed not only unlearned, but foolish, mad, and fantastical, but his book doth and will do hurt. I marvel that no answer is made to Erasmus' epistle1 for More and Fisher.
Sends an epistle of Clement Marrott, an excellent French poet, who has fled from France for the Gospel. We hear from these merchants that the Emperor will have 1,000 horse from about Gulyk, July, and Luke, who are only waiting for certainty of their stipend, and that worthily, for in their last journey for the Emperor they spent all they had, and received no recompense.
There are no new maps or pictures. If there were, I would send them. As for books, you shall .... [Wol]fe such as * * * .... e Sundaye.
Hol., pp. 8. Mutilated. The address is written on the back of § 2, which is the enclosure referred to in the letter (see p. 186).
Note 1. The letter signed Gulielmus Covrinus Nucerinus (Vol. VIII., No. 1096) was commonly, and no doubt rightly, attributed to Erasmus.
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Holinshed's Chronicle [1525-1582]. 12th March 1542. After his deceasse, the twelfe of the same moneth of March, sir John Audeleie (age 38) sonne and heire to the said lord Lisles wife, was at Westminster created vicount Lisle.
Chronicle of Edward Hall [1496-1548]. 12th March 1542. And the twelve daye of the saied moneth, sir Jhon Dudley (age 38) sonne and heire to the saied Lorde Lisles wife was at Westmynster created Viscount Lisle.
On 12th March 1542 John Dudley 1st Duke Northumberland (age 38) was created 1st Viscount Lisle.
In May 1545 Agnes Tilney Duchess Norfolk (age 68) died. Her will was executed while she was still a prisoner. It read:
"I, Agnes, Duchess of Suffolk, widdowe, of late the wife of the most noble Prince, Thomas Duke of Norfolk deceased, make my will XII days of Marche, 1542. My bodye to be buried within the parishe churche of Lambithe, County Surrey, in suche place whereas I have prepared my Tomb. To my Chapple of Lambith, my best chalice of silver and gilte with the patten. I will that my sonne Lord William Howarde have iij partes of all my goodes, both household stuffe, Juells, and Plate. I give to my Lady Bridgewater my daughter, the fourth part of all my goodds, and four parts of all my rayment (clothing). To Sir John Rabon, chauntry priste of Lambithe, a sliver spones. To my nephew, Tinlay (Tilney), a goblet of sliver and gilte without a cover. Executors of my will, my sonne Lord William Hawarde, and my nephew, Tynlay."
Agnes Howard
Henry Machyn's Diary. 12th March 1559. The xij day of Marche was the sam hers was taken downe the day a-for she was browth to the chyrche, the wyche was as goodly hers of v prynsepalles as has bene sene, with armes and penselles.
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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On 12th March 1560. [Some sources say 25th February 1560] Catherine Blount (deceased) died. On 11th August 1580 Maurice Berkeley (age 54) died. Church of St Mary, Bruton [Map]. Elizabethan Period recumbent effigies of himself and his two wives Catherine Blount and Elizabeth Sands (age 27) in an Easter sepulchre-type recess with double round arched front, Corinthian pilasters and strapwork panels. Ruff. Panel with quartered arms 1 
Berkeley Arms 2 probably 
Tiptoft Arms, possibly Wotton Arms 3 Unknown Arms 4 probably 
Babington Arms, possibly 
Zouche Arms differenced with a label three points, overall a Crescent.
Catherine Blount: John Champernowne and she were married. Around 1518 she was born to William Blount 4th Baron Mountjoy and Alice Keble Baroness Mountjoy. After 1541 Maurice Berkeley and she were married. They were sixth cousins. Henry Machyn's Diary. 12th March 1560. The xij day of Marche was bered at Dyttun [Map] my lade Barkeley, the wyff of ser Mores Barthelay knyght, with a penon of armes and a iiij dosen of skochyons, and a harold of armes, master Rychemond.
Elizabeth Sands: In 1533 she was born to Anthony Sands of Throwley in Kent. In 1562 Maurice Berkeley and she were married. The difference in their ages was 27 years. On 16th June 1585 she died at Berkeley House. She was buried at the St James' Church, Clerkenwell where a monument was constructed. Before 16th June 1685 she was appointed Lady of the Bedchamber to Queen Elizabeth I of England and Ireland.
Diary of Anne Clifford. 12th March 1616. Upon the 12th I told my Lord (age 26) how I had left those writings which the Judges and my Lord would have me sign and seal behind with my Mother.
Diary of Anne Clifford. 12th March 1617. Upon the 12th I wrote to my Lord (age 27), to Sir Walter Raleigh, Marsh, &c.
On 12th March 1626 John Aubrey was born to Richard Aubrey.
On 12th March 1634 Francis Ferdinand Habsburg Spain was born to Philip IV King Spain (age 28) and Elisabeth Bourbon Queen Consort Spain (age 31). Coefficient of inbreeding 4.39%. He died aged less than one years old.
On 12th March 1634 Francis Ferdinand Habsburg Spain died.
On 12th March 1637 Anne Hyde Duchess of York was born to Edward Hyde 1st Earl Clarendon (age 28) and Frances Aylesbury Countess Clarendon (age 19). She married 3rd September 1660 King James II of England Scotland and Ireland, son of King Charles I of England, Scotland and Ireland and Henrietta Maria Bourbon Queen Consort England, and had issue.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 12th March 1660. This day the wench rose at two in the morning to wash, and my wife and I lay talking a great while. I by reason of my cold could not tell how to sleep. my wife and I to the Exchange, where we bought a great many things, where I left her and went into London, and at Bedells the bookseller's at the Temple [Map] gate I paid £12 10s. 6d. for Mr. Fuller (age 52) by his direction. So came back and at Wilkinson's found Mr. Sheply and some sea people, as the cook of the Nazeby and others, at dinner. Then to the White Horse in King Street, where I got Mr. Buddle's horse to ride to Huntsmore to Mr. Bowyer's, where I found him and all well, and willing to have my wife come and board with them while I was at sea, which was the business I went about. Here I lay and took a thing for my cold, namely a spoonful of honey and a nutmeg scraped into it, by Mr. Bowyer's direction, and so took it into my mouth, which I found did do me much good.
Chronicle of a Bourgeois of Valenciennes
Récits d’un bourgeois de Valenciennes aka The Chronicle of a Bourgeois of Valenciennes is a vivid 14th-century vernacular chronicle written by an anonymous urban chronicler from Valenciennes in the County of Hainaut. It survives in a manuscript that describes local and regional history from about 1253 to 1366, blending chronology, narrative episodes, and eyewitness-style accounts of political, military, and social events in medieval France, Flanders, and the Low Countries. The work begins with a chronological framework of events affecting Valenciennes and its region under rulers such as King Philip VI of France and the shifting allegiances of local nobility. It includes accounts of conflicts, sieges, diplomatic manoeuvres, and the impact of broader struggles like the Hundred Years’ War on urban life in Hainaut. Written from the perspective of a burgher (bourgeois) rather than a monastery or royal court, the chronicle offers a rare lay viewpoint on high politics and warfare, reflecting how merchants, townspeople, and civic institutions experienced the turbulence of the 13th and 14th centuries. Its narrative style combines straightforward reporting of events with moral and civic observations, making it a valuable source for readers interested in medieval urban society, regional politics, and the lived experience of war and governance in pre-modern Europe.
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Samuel Pepys' Diary. 12th March 1665. Lord's Day. Up, and borrowing Sir J. Minnes's (age 66) coach, to my Lord Sandwich's (age 39), but he was gone abroad. I sent the coach back for my wife, my Lord a second time dining at home on purpose to meet me, he having not dined once at home but those times since his coming from sea. I sat down and read over the Bishop of Chichester's (age 73) sermon upon the anniversary of the King's death, much cried up, but, methinks, but a mean sermon.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 12th March 1668. Up, and to the office, where all the morning, at noon home, and after dinner with wife and Deb., carried them to Unthanke's, and I to Westminster Hall [Map] expecting our being with the Committee this afternoon about Victualling business, but once more waited in vain. So after a turn or two with Lord Brouncker (age 48), I took my wife up and left her at the 'Change [Map] while I to Gresham College, there to shew myself; and was there greeted by Dr. Wilkins (age 54), Whistler, and others, as the patron of the Navy Office, and one that got great fame by my late speech to the Parliament. Here I saw a great trial of the goodness of a burning glass, made of a new figure, not spherical (by one Smithys, I think, they call him), that did burn a glove of my Lord Brouncker's from the heat of a very little fire, which a burning glass of the old form, or much bigger, could not do, which was mighty pretty. Here I heard Sir Robert Southwell (age 32) give an account of some things committed to him by the Society at his going to Portugall, which he did deliver in a mighty handsome manner1. Thence went away home, and there at my office as long as my eyes would endure, and then home to supper, and to talk with Mr. Pelling, who tells me what a fame I have in the City for my late performance; and upon the whole I bless God for it. I think I have, if I can keep it, done myself a great deal of repute. So by and by to bed.
Note 1. At the meeting of the Royal Society on March 12th, 1668, "Mr. Smethwick's glasses were tried again; and his telescope being compared with another longer telescope, and the object-glasses exchanged, was still found to exceed the other in goodness; and his burning concave being compared with a spherical burning-glass of almost twice the diameter, and held to the fire, it burnt gloves, whereas the other spherical ones would not burn at all".-"Sir Robert Southwell being lately returned from Portugal, where he had been ambassador from the King (age 37), and being desired to acquaint the society with what he had done with respect to the instructions, which he had received from them before his departure from England, related, that he had lodged the astronomical quadrant, which the society had sent to Portugal to make observations with there, with a body of men at Lisbon, who had applied themselves among other kinds of literature to mathematics" (Birch's "History of the Royal Society", vol. ii., p. 256).
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Samuel Pepys' Diary. 12th March 1669. Up, and abroad, with my own coach, to Auditor Beale's house, and thence with W. Hewer (age 27) to his Office, and there with great content spent all the morning looking over the Navy accounts of several years, and the several patents of the Treasurers, which was more than I did hope to have found there. About noon I ended there, to my great content, and giving the clerks there 20s. for their trouble, and having sent for W. Howe to me to discourse with him about the Patent Office records, wherein I remembered his brother to be concerned, I took him in my coach with W. Hewer and myself towards Westminster; and there he carried me to Nott's, the famous bookbinder, that bound for my Chancellor's (age 60) library; and here I did take occasion for curiosity to bespeak a book to be bound, only that I might have one of his binding.
John Evelyn's Diary. 12th March 1672. To this succeeded the King's (age 41) declaration for an universal toleration; Papists and swarms of Sectaries, now boldly showing themselves in their public meetings.!This was imputed to the same council, Clifford (age 41) warping to Rome as was believed, nor was Lord Arlington (age 54) clear of suspicion, to gratify that party, but as since it has proved, and was then evidently foreseen, to the extreme weakening of the Church of England and its Episcopal Government, as it was projected. I speak not this as my own sense, but what was the discourse and thoughts of others, who were lookers-on; for I think there might be some relaxations without the least prejudice to the present establishment, discreetly limited, but to let go the reins in this manner, and then to imagine they could take them up again as easily, was a false policy, and greatly destructive. The truth is, our Bishops slipped the occasion; for, had they held a steady hand upon his Majesty's restoration, as they might easily have done, the Church of England had emerged and flourished, without interruption; but they were then remiss, and covetous after advantages of another kind while his Majesty suffered them to come into a harvest, with which, without any injustice he might have remunerated innumerable gallant gentlemen for their services who had ruined themselves in the late rebellion.
On 12th March 1672 Admiral John Holmes (age 32), commanding The Gloucester, and Thomas Butler 6th Earl Ossory (age 37) attacked the Dutch Smyrna Fleet on its return from the Mediterranean beginning the Third Anglo-Dutch War.
John Evelyn's Diary. 12th March 1672. Now was the first blow given by us to the Dutch convoy of the Smyrna fleet, by Sir Robert Holmes (age 32) and Lord Ossory (age 37), in which we received little save blows, and a worthy reproach for attacking our neighbours ere any war was proclaimed, and then pretending the occasion to be, that some time before, the Merlin yacht chancing to sail through the whole Dutch fleet, their Admiral did not strike to that trifling vessel. Surely, this was a quarrel slenderly grounded, and not becoming Christian neighbours. We are likely to thrive, accordingly. Lord Ossory several times deplored to me his being engaged in it; he had more justice and honor than in the least to approve of it, though he had been over-persuaded to the expedition. There is no doubt but we should have surprised this exceeding rich fleet, had not the avarice and ambition of Holmes and Spragge (age 52) separated themselves, and willfully divided our fleet, on presumption that either of them was strong enough to deal with the Dutch convoy without joining and mutual help; but they so warmly plied our divided fleets, that while in conflict the merchants sailed away, and got safe into Holland.
On 12th March 1673 Margaret Theresa Habsburg Holy Roman Empress (age 21) died.
On 12th March 1678 Archibald Campbell 1st Duke Argyll (age 19) and Elizabeth Tollemache Duchess Argyll (age 18) were married. She the daughter of Lionel Tollemache 3rd Baronet and Elizabeth Murray Duchess Lauderdale (age 51). He the son of Archibald Campbell 9th Earl Argyll (age 49) and Mary Stewart Countess Argyll. They were sixth cousins.
John Evelyn's Diary. 12th March 1686. A docquet was to be seal' d importing a lease of 21 yeares to one Hall, who styl'd himselfe his Ma*'s (age 52) printer (he lately turn'd Papist) for the printing Missalls, Offices, Lives of Saints, Portals, Primers, &c. books expressly forbidden to be printed or sold, by divers Acts of Parliament; I refus'd to put the seale to it, making my exceptions, so it was laied by.
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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On 12th March 1699 John Sheffield 1st Duke of Buckingham and Normanby (age 50) and Catherine Greville Duchess Buckingham and Normandby were married at St Clement Danes Church, Westminster [Map]. She by marriage Countess Mulgrave. He the son of Edmund Sheffield 2nd Earl Mulgrave and Elizabeth Cranfield Countess Mulgrave (age 91). They were sixth cousins.
On 12th March 1701 Wilhelm Saxe Coburg Altenburg was born to Frederick Saxe Coburg Altenburg II Duke Saxe Gotha Altenburg (age 24) and Magdalena Augusta Anhalt-Zerbst Duchess Saxe Gotha Altenburg at Gotha. He married 8th November 1742 his third cousin Anna Holstein Gottorp.
On 12th March 1724 Francis Scott 2nd Duke Buccleuch (age 29) was appointed Fellow of the Royal Society.
On 12th March 1731 Mary Carew (age 15) died.
Mary Carew: Around April 1715 she was born to William Carew 5th Baronet and Anne Coventry Lady Carew.
On 12th March 1742 Elizabeth Somerset was born to Charles Noel Somerset 4th Duke Beaufort (age 32) and Elizabeth Berekeley Duchess Beaufort (age 29).
On 12th March 1749 or 13th March 1749 William Robert Fitzgerald 2nd Duke Leinster was born to James Fitzgerald 1st Duke Leinster (age 27) and Emilia Mary Lennox Duchess Leinster (age 17) at Arlington Place. He a great x 2 grandson of King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland. He married 4th November 1775 his sixth cousin Emilia St George Duchess Leinster, daughter of St George Ussher aka St George 1st Baron Saint George, and had issue.
On 12th March 1753 Mary Meynell (age 32) died. Memorial at St Mary's Church, Tissington [Map].
Mary Meynell: Around 1721 she was born to Littleton Pointz Meynell. On 23rd June 1744 William Fitzherbert and she were married at Somersal Herbert, Derbyshire.
Archaeologia Volume 3 Section XXX. Extract of a Letter from the Reverend Mr. George Low, to Mr. Paton, of Edinburgh. Communicated by Mr. Gough. Read at the Society of Antiquaries, March 12, 19, 1773.
On 12th March 1779 George Legge 3rd Earl Dartmouth (age 23) was appointed Lieutenant-Colonel of the Staffordshire Militia. He became Colonel in 1781. He resigned the command in 1783 when the regiment was disembodied at the end of the American War of Independence.
Jean de Waurin's Chronicle of England Volume 6 Books 3-6: The Wars of the Roses
Jean de Waurin was a French Chronicler, from the Artois region, who was born around 1400, and died around 1474. Waurin’s Chronicle of England, Volume 6, covering the period 1450 to 1471, from which we have selected and translated Chapters relating to the Wars of the Roses, provides a vivid, original, contemporary description of key events some of which he witnessed first-hand, some of which he was told by the key people involved with whom Waurin had a personal relationship.
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On 12th March 1781 Queen Fredrika Dorotea Vilhelmina was born to Prince Charles Louis of Baden (age 26) and Princess Amalie of Hesse-Darmstadt (age 26). Coefficient of inbreeding 3.12%. She married (1) 1797 her fifth cousin once removed King Gustav IV of Sweden, son of Gustav III King Sweden and Queen Sophia of Sweden.
Greville Memoirs. 12th March 1832. Durham made another exhibition of temper at the Cabinet dinner last Wednesday. While Lord Grey was saying something he rudely interrupted him, as his custom is. Lord Grey said, 'But, my dear Lambton, only hear what I was going to say,' when the other jumped up and said, 'Oh, if I am not to be allowed to speak I may as well go away,' rang the bell, ordered his carriage, and marched off. Wharncliffe (age 55) came to me yesterday morning to propose writing a pamphlet in answer to the 'Quarterly Review,' which has got an article against his party. I suggested instead that an attempt should be made by Sandon (who has been in some communication with the editor about this matter) to induce the 'Morning Herald' to support us, and make that paper the vehicle of our articles. This he agreed to, and was to propose it to Sandon last night. We have no advocate in the press; the Whig and Tory papers are equally violent against us. Yesterday I saw a letter which has been circulated among the Tories, written by young Lord Redesdale to Lord Bathurst (age 69), a sort of counter-argument to Lord Harrowby's letter, although not an answer, as it was written before he had seen that document; there is very little in it.
On 12th March 1845 William Douglas Hamilton 12th Duke Hamilton 9th Duke Brandon was born to William Alexander Archibald Hamilton 11th Duke Hamilton 8th Duke Brandon (age 34) at Connaught Place, Bayswater. He married 10th December 1873 his fourth cousin once removed Mary Louisa Elizabeth Montagu Duchess Hamilton Duchess Brandon, daughter of William Drogo Montagu 7th Duke Manchester and Louisa Vonalten Duchess Devonshire and Manchester, and had issue.
On 12th March 1854 Edith Katherine Manners was born to John Manners (age 35) and Catherine Louise Georgina Marlay (age 23). Her mother died three weeks later. On 24th March 1854 Edith Katherine Manners died.
On 12th March 1868 General Mildmay Fane (age 73) died from a fall from a horse whilst hunting. He was unmarried.
Monument to General Mildmay Fane at St Nicholas' Church, Fulbeck. Inscription ... In memory of General Mildmay Fane 7th son of the Honble H. Fane of Fulbeck who served in the Peninsula at the Battle of Vittoria, Assault & Capture of San Sebastian and the Battle of the Nile, also in the Campaign of 1815 including the Battle of Quatre Bras in which he was wounded. Died March 12th 1868, aged 73. This tablet was erected by officers of the 54th Regiment who served under him as their commanding officer between 1828 and 1851 in token of their great esteem for his memory and of honour, respect and love with which they regarded him.
On 12th March 1874 Caroline Paget Duchess Richmond (age 77) died.
The London Gazette 27357. 12th March 1901. Lord Chamberlain's Office, St. James's Palace, March 12, 1901.
The King has been pleased to appoint the Right Reverend Father in God Randall, Bishop of Winchester (age 52), to be Clerk of the Closet in Ordinary to His Majesty.
On 12th March 1901 John Francis Godolphin Osborne 11th Duke Leeds was born to George Godolphin Osborne 10th Duke Leeds (age 38) and Katherine Frances Lambton Duchess Leeds (age 38).
On 12th March 1917 George Wellesley (age 27) and Louise FitzGerald (age 28) were married in New York. She was the widow of his older brother Richard Wellesley who had been killed in 1914; Married to Two Siblings. He the son of Arthur Charles Wellesley 4th Duke Wellington (age 67) and Kathleen Emily Bulkeley Williams Duchess Wellington (age 68).
Louise FitzGerald: On 8th January 1889 she was born. On 30th April 1901 Richard Wellesley and she were married. They had two daughters. He the son of Arthur Charles Wellesley 4th Duke Wellington and Kathleen Emily Bulkeley Williams Duchess Wellington. On 21st February 1946 she died.
On 12th March 1096 Canute Lavard was born to Eric I King of Denmark (age 36).
On 12th March 1270 Charles Valois I Count Valois was born to King Philip III of France (age 24) and Isabella Barcelona Queen Consort France (age 22). He a great x 3 grandson of King Henry "Curtmantle" II of England. He married (1) 16th August 1290 his second cousin Margaret Capet Countess Valois and had issue (2) 1302 his third cousin once removed Catherine Courtenay Countess Valois and had issue (3) 1308 his second cousin once removed Mahaut Chatillon Countess Valois, daughter of Guy Chatillon IV Count Saint Pol and Marie Capet, and had issue.
Chronicle of Geoffrey le Baker of Swinbroke
Baker was a secular clerk from Swinbroke, now Swinbrook, an Oxfordshire village two miles east of Burford. His Chronicle describes the events of the period 1303-1356: Gaveston, Bannockburn, Boroughbridge, the murder of King Edward II, the Scottish Wars, Sluys, Crécy, the Black Death, Winchelsea and Poitiers. To quote Herbert Bruce 'it possesses a vigorous and characteristic style, and its value for particular events between 1303 and 1356 has been recognised by its editor and by subsequent writers'. The book provides remarkable detail about the events it describes. Baker's text has been augmented with hundreds of notes, including extracts from other contemporary chronicles, such as the Annales Londonienses, Annales Paulini, Murimuth, Lanercost, Avesbury, Guisborough and Froissart to enrich the reader's understanding. The translation takes as its source the 'Chronicon Galfridi le Baker de Swynebroke' published in 1889, edited by Edward Maunde Thompson.
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On 12th March 1281 John Nesle V Count Soissons was born to John Nesle IV Count Soissons and Marguerite Rumigny Countess Soissons.
On 12th March 1336 Edward Duke Guelders was born to Reginald "Black" I Duke Guelders (age 41) and Eleanor of Woodstock Plantagenet (age 17). He a grandson of King Edward II of England.
On 12th March 1367 Mary Percy Baroness Ros of Helmsley was born to Henry Percy 11th and 3rd Baron Percy (age 46) and Joan Orreby Baroness Percy (age 18). She married 22nd June 1382 her third cousin John Ros 5th Baron Ros Helmsley, son of Thomas Ros 4th Baron Ros Helmsley and Beatrice Stafford Countess Desmond.
On 12th March 1385 Isabel Plantagenet was born to Thomas of Woodstock 1st Duke of Gloucester (age 30) and Eleanor Bohun Duchess Gloucester (age 19). She a granddaughter of King Edward III of England. Coefficient of inbreeding 1.67%.
On 12th March 1479 Giuliano Medici Duke Nemours was born to Lorenzo de Medici (age 30) and Clarice Orsini (age 29) at Florence, Tuscany. He married 22nd February 1515 Philiberta of Savoy, daughter of Philip "Landless" Savoy II Duke Savoy and Claudine Brosse.
On 12th March 1500 Cardinal Reginald Pole was born to Richard Pole (age 38) and Margaret York aka Pole Countess of Salisbury (age 26) at Stourton Castle, Staffordshire. He a great x 4 grandson of King Edward III of England.
On 12th March 1626 John Aubrey was born to Richard Aubrey.
On 12th March 1633 John Evelyn 1st Baronet was born to John Evelyn (age 42).
Henrici Quinti, Angliæ Regis, Gesta, is a first-hand account of the Agincourt Campaign, and subsequent events to his death in 1422. The author of the first part was a Chaplain in King Henry's retinue who was present from King Henry's departure at Southampton in 1415, at the siege of Harfleur, the battle of Agincourt, and the celebrations on King Henry's return to London. The second part, by another writer, relates the events that took place including the negotiations at Troye, Henry's marriage and his death in 1422.
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On 12th March 1634 Francis Ferdinand Habsburg Spain was born to Philip IV King Spain (age 28) and Elisabeth Bourbon Queen Consort Spain (age 31). Coefficient of inbreeding 4.39%. He died aged less than one years old.
On 12th March 1637 Anne Hyde Duchess of York was born to Edward Hyde 1st Earl Clarendon (age 28) and Frances Aylesbury Countess Clarendon (age 19). She married 3rd September 1660 King James II of England Scotland and Ireland, son of King Charles I of England, Scotland and Ireland and Henrietta Maria Bourbon Queen Consort England, and had issue.
On 12th March 1654 Charles Egerton of Newborough was born to John Egerton 2nd Earl Bridgewater (age 30) and Elizabeth Cavendish Countess Bridgewater (age 27). He married before 11th December 1717 Elizabeth Murray, daughter of Henry Murray of Berkhampstead and Anne Bayning Viscountess Bayning, and had issue.
On 12th March 1690 George Henry Lee 2nd Earl Lichfield was born to Edward Lee 1st Earl Lichfield (age 27) and Charlotte Fitzroy Countess Lichfield (age 25). He a grandson of King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland. He married before 21st May 1718 Frances Hales Countess Lichfield, daughter of John Hales 4th Baronet and Mary Catherine Bellings-Arundell Baroness Arundel Wardour, and had issue.
On 12th March 1701 Wilhelm Saxe Coburg Altenburg was born to Frederick Saxe Coburg Altenburg II Duke Saxe Gotha Altenburg (age 24) and Magdalena Augusta Anhalt-Zerbst Duchess Saxe Gotha Altenburg at Gotha. He married 8th November 1742 his third cousin Anna Holstein Gottorp.
On 12th March 1708 Brook Bridges 2nd Baronet was born to Brook Bridges 1st Baronet (age 28). He married before 23rd May 1733 Ann Palmer, daughter of Thomas Palmer 4th Baronet, and had issue.
On 12th March 1712 John Shirley was born to Robert Shirley 1st Earl Ferrers (age 61) and Selina Finch Countess Ferrers (age 30).
On 12th March 1716 Georgiana Caroline Carteret was born to John Carteret 2nd Earl Granville (age 25) and Frances Worsley Countess Granville (age 23) at Lansdown, Somerset. She married 14th February 1733 her fifth cousin once removed John Spencer, son of Charles Spencer 3rd Earl of Sunderland and Anne Churchill Countess Sunderland, and had issue.
On 12th March 1718 Joseph Damer 1st Earl Dorchester was born to Joseph Damer (age 42). He married 27th July 1742 Caroline Sackville Lady Milton, daughter of Lionel Cranfield Sackville 1st Duke Dorset and Elizabeth Colyear Duchess Dorset, and had issue.
Chronicle of a Bourgeois of Valenciennes
Récits d’un bourgeois de Valenciennes aka The Chronicle of a Bourgeois of Valenciennes is a vivid 14th-century vernacular chronicle written by an anonymous urban chronicler from Valenciennes in the County of Hainaut. It survives in a manuscript that describes local and regional history from about 1253 to 1366, blending chronology, narrative episodes, and eyewitness-style accounts of political, military, and social events in medieval France, Flanders, and the Low Countries. The work begins with a chronological framework of events affecting Valenciennes and its region under rulers such as King Philip VI of France and the shifting allegiances of local nobility. It includes accounts of conflicts, sieges, diplomatic manoeuvres, and the impact of broader struggles like the Hundred Years’ War on urban life in Hainaut. Written from the perspective of a burgher (bourgeois) rather than a monastery or royal court, the chronicle offers a rare lay viewpoint on high politics and warfare, reflecting how merchants, townspeople, and civic institutions experienced the turbulence of the 13th and 14th centuries. Its narrative style combines straightforward reporting of events with moral and civic observations, making it a valuable source for readers interested in medieval urban society, regional politics, and the lived experience of war and governance in pre-modern Europe.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 12th March 1729 John Molesworth 5th Baronet was born to John Molesworth 4th Baronet (age 24) and Barbara Morice Lady Molesworth. He was baptised at Egloshayle Church [Map]. He married (1) 28th September 1755 Frances Smyth and had issue (2) 22nd July 1762 his first cousin Barbara St Aubyn Lady Molesworth, daughter of John St Aubyn 3rd Baronet and Catherine Morice Lady St Aubyn, and had issue.
On 12th March 1742 Elizabeth Somerset was born to Charles Noel Somerset 4th Duke Beaufort (age 32) and Elizabeth Berekeley Duchess Beaufort (age 29).
On 12th March 1749 or 13th March 1749 William Robert Fitzgerald 2nd Duke Leinster was born to James Fitzgerald 1st Duke Leinster (age 27) and Emilia Mary Lennox Duchess Leinster (age 17) at Arlington Place. He a great x 2 grandson of King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland. He married 4th November 1775 his sixth cousin Emilia St George Duchess Leinster, daughter of St George Ussher aka St George 1st Baron Saint George, and had issue.
On 12th March 1752 Charles Hastings 1st Baronet was born illegitimately to Francis Hastings 10th Earl Huntingdon (age 22) at Paris [Map]. His mother was a famous French courtesan, la demoiselle Lany, "danseuse de l'Opéra".
On 12th March 1753 William Strickland 6th Baronet was born to George Strickland 5th Baronet (age 24). He married 15th April 1778 his sixth cousin Henrietta Cholmley Lady Strickland and had issue.
On 12th March 1753 Hugh Fortescue 1st Earl Fortescue was born to Matthew Fortescue 2nd Baron Fortescue (age 34) and Anne Campbell Baroness Fortescue (age 25). He married 10th May 1782 Hester Granville Countess Fortescue and had issue.
On 12th March 1772 William Hay 17th Earl Erroll was born to James Hay 15th Earl Erroll (age 45) and Isabella Carr Countess Erroll. He married (1) 1792 Jane Bell Countess Erroll and had issue (2) 1796 Alicia Eliot Countess Erroll and had issue (3) 1816 Harriet Somerville Countess Erroll and had issue.
On 12th March 1776 Hester Lucy Stanhope was born to Charles Stanhope 3rd Earl Stanhope (age 22) and Hester Pitt (age 20) at Chevening, Sevenoaks.
Chronicle of a Bourgeois of Valenciennes
Récits d’un bourgeois de Valenciennes aka The Chronicle of a Bourgeois of Valenciennes is a vivid 14th-century vernacular chronicle written by an anonymous urban chronicler from Valenciennes in the County of Hainaut. It survives in a manuscript that describes local and regional history from about 1253 to 1366, blending chronology, narrative episodes, and eyewitness-style accounts of political, military, and social events in medieval France, Flanders, and the Low Countries. The work begins with a chronological framework of events affecting Valenciennes and its region under rulers such as King Philip VI of France and the shifting allegiances of local nobility. It includes accounts of conflicts, sieges, diplomatic manoeuvres, and the impact of broader struggles like the Hundred Years’ War on urban life in Hainaut. Written from the perspective of a burgher (bourgeois) rather than a monastery or royal court, the chronicle offers a rare lay viewpoint on high politics and warfare, reflecting how merchants, townspeople, and civic institutions experienced the turbulence of the 13th and 14th centuries. Its narrative style combines straightforward reporting of events with moral and civic observations, making it a valuable source for readers interested in medieval urban society, regional politics, and the lived experience of war and governance in pre-modern Europe.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 12th March 1781 Queen Fredrika Dorotea Vilhelmina was born to Prince Charles Louis of Baden (age 26) and Princess Amalie of Hesse-Darmstadt (age 26). Coefficient of inbreeding 3.12%. She married (1) 1797 her fifth cousin once removed King Gustav IV of Sweden, son of Gustav III King Sweden and Queen Sophia of Sweden.
On 12th March 1795 Archibald Edmonstone 3rd Baronet was born to Charles Edmonstone 2nd Baronet (age 31) and Emma Wilbraham-Bootle.
On 12th March 1798 Charles Abbot 2nd Baron Colchester was born to Charles Abbot 1st Baron Colchester (age 40).
On 12th March 1828 Trevor Wheler 11th Baronet was born to Francis Wheler 10th Baronet (age 26) and Caroline Palmer at Muttra, India. He married 21st June 1852 Cordelia Mary Jane Scott Lady Wheler and had issue.
On 12th March 1839 Edmund Charles Nugent 3rd Baronet was born to George Nugent 2nd Baronet (age 36) and Maria Charlotte Ridley-Colborne Lady Nugent. He married 30th April 1863 Evelyn Henrietta Gascoigne Lady Nugent and had issue.
On 12th March 1845 William Douglas Hamilton 12th Duke Hamilton 9th Duke Brandon was born to William Alexander Archibald Hamilton 11th Duke Hamilton 8th Duke Brandon (age 34) at Connaught Place, Bayswater. He married 10th December 1873 his fourth cousin once removed Mary Louisa Elizabeth Montagu Duchess Hamilton Duchess Brandon, daughter of William Drogo Montagu 7th Duke Manchester and Louisa Vonalten Duchess Devonshire and Manchester, and had issue.
On 12th March 1853 Esmé Stuart Gordon was born to Charles Gordon 10th Marquess Huntly (age 61) and Maria Antoinetta Pegus Marchioness Huntly (age 32).
On 12th March 1854 Edith Katherine Manners was born to John Manners (age 35) and Catherine Louise Georgina Marlay (age 23). Her mother died three weeks later. On 24th March 1854 Edith Katherine Manners 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.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 12th March 1860 Colonel Alfred Nathaniel Curzon was born to Alfred Nathaniel Holden Curzon 4th Baron Scarsdale (age 28) and Blanche Pocklington Senhouse Baroness Scarsdale (age 22). He married 29th April 1891 Henrietta Mary Montagu and had issue.
On 12th March 1882 Harry Martin Grey 5th Baronet was born to Captain Harry George Grey (age 29).
On 12th March 1895 Elizabeth Constance Mary Bertie was born to Montagu Arthur Bertie 7th Earl of Abingdon (age 58) and Gwendoline Mary Dormer (age 30). She married 12th April 1914 Sigismund William Joseph Trafford.
On 12th March 1901 John Francis Godolphin Osborne 11th Duke Leeds was born to George Godolphin Osborne 10th Duke Leeds (age 38) and Katherine Frances Lambton Duchess Leeds (age 38).
On 12th March 1917 Betty Marjorie Anson was born to Thomas Edward Anson 4th Earl Lichfield (age 33) and Evelyn Maud Keppel Countess Lichfield (age 29). She married 20th May 1944 her sixth cousin Colonel Thomas Foley Churchill Winnington and had issue.
On 12th March 1951 Hugh Trenchard 3rd Viscount Trenchard was born to Thomas Trenchard 2nd Viscount Trenchard (age 27). He married 9th April 1975 Fiona Morrison Viscountess Trenchard, daughter of James Morrison 2nd Baron Margadale.
On 12th March 1237 William Jülich IV Count Jülich (age 27) and Margaret Guelders Countess Jülich were married. She by marriage Countess Jülich. He would, thirteen years later, marry her sister Richardis Guelders Countess Jülich (age 22); an example of Married to Two Siblings. She the daughter of Gerard III Count Guelders and Margaret Reginar Countess Guelders. He the son of William Jülich III Count Jülich and Matilda Luxemburg Countess Jülich. They were third cousins. She a great x 2 granddaughter of King Stephen I England.
On 12th March 1558 George Gordon 5th Earl Huntley and Anne Hamilton Countess Huntley (age 23) were married. She the daughter of James Hamilton 2nd Earl Arran (age 42) and Margaret Douglas Duchess Châtellerault. He the son of George Gordon 4th Earl Huntley (age 44). They were second cousins.
On 12th March 1678 Archibald Campbell 1st Duke Argyll (age 19) and Elizabeth Tollemache Duchess Argyll (age 18) were married. She the daughter of Lionel Tollemache 3rd Baronet and Elizabeth Murray Duchess Lauderdale (age 51). He the son of Archibald Campbell 9th Earl Argyll (age 49) and Mary Stewart Countess Argyll. They were sixth cousins.
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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On 12th March 1699 John Sheffield 1st Duke of Buckingham and Normanby (age 50) and Catherine Greville Duchess Buckingham and Normandby were married at St Clement Danes Church, Westminster [Map]. She by marriage Countess Mulgrave. He the son of Edmund Sheffield 2nd Earl Mulgrave and Elizabeth Cranfield Countess Mulgrave (age 91). They were sixth cousins.
On 12th March 1703 Philip Sherard 2nd Earl Harborough (age 23) and Anne Pedley Countess Harborough (age 28) were married.
On 12th March 1713 Richard Mill 5th Baronet (age 23) and Mary Knollys were married.
On 12th March 1751 Charles Wyndham 2nd Earl Egremont (age 40) and Alicia Carpenter Countess Egremont (age 25) were married. She by marriage Countess Egremont.
On 12th March 1768 Topham Beauclerk (age 28) and Diana Spencer Viscountess St John and Bolingbroke (age 33) were married. She the daughter of Charles Spencer 3rd Duke of Marlborough and Elizabeth Trevor Duchess of Marlborough.
On 12th March 1901 William Horsley-Beresford 4th Baron Decies (age 36) and Maria Gertrude Willoughby were married.
On 12th March 604 Pope Gregory I (age 64) died.
On 12th March 951 Bishop Ælfheah "The Bald" died. He was buried at Winchester Old Minster.
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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On 12th March 996 Odo Blois I Count Blois (age 46) died. His son Theobald (age 11) succeeded II Count Blois.
On 12th March 1204 Bishop Seffrid died.
On 12th March 1310 William Leybourne 1st Baron Leybourne (age 68) died at Criccieth Castle [Map]. Baron Leybourne extinct or abeyant. His son had predeceased him without issue.
On 12th March 1336 Guy Dampierre II Count Namur (age 24) was killed in a tournament. His brother Philip (age 17) succeeded III Marquis Namur.
On 12th March 1445 John Jacob Marquis of Montferrat (age 49) died. His son John (age 31) succeeded IV Marquis Montferrat.
On 12th March 1463 George Douglas 4th Earl Angus (age 36) died. His son Archibald (age 14) succeeded 5th Earl Angus.
On 12th March 1470 King Edward IV of England (age 27) commanded at the Battle of Losecoat Field (Empingham).
Thomas Dymoke (age 42) and Richard Welles 7th Baron Welles, Baron Willoughby (age 42) were beheaded at Queen's Cross, Stamford before the battle1. His son Robert succeeded 8th Baron Welles.
The name 'Losecoat' not contemporary, and its meaning of men "losing their coats" may have been invented in the 19th Century. The name Losecoat appears to be first used in the 16th Century Hall's and Holinshed's Chronicles.
The 1475 attainder of Richard and Robert Welles refers to the battle having taken place "in a field called 'Hornefeld' in Empyngham",
Note 1. Some sources say on battlefield immediately prior to the battle, some after the batte
On 12th March 1539 Thomas Boleyn 1st Earl Wiltshire and Ormonde (age 62) died. He was buried at St Peter's Church, Hever. His monument has a brass. He is depicted dressed in full robes wearing the insignia of a Knight of the Garter, with the Badge on his left breast and the Garter around his left knee. His head rests on a helm surmounted by a crest of a falcon displayed (his daughter's heraldic badge) and his feet rest on a griffin. The inscription reads: Here lieth Sir Thomas Bullen, Knight of the Order of the Garter, Erle of Wilscher and Erle or Ormunde, which decessed the 12th dai of Marche in the iere of our Lorde 1538. Earl Wiltshire, Earl Ormonde and Viscount Rochford extinct. His brother James Boleyn (age 46) inherited Hever Castle, Kent [Map] who sold it a year later to the Crown [or possibly exchanged it for manors in Norfolk].
On 12th March 1634 Francis Ferdinand Habsburg Spain died.
On 12th March 1673 Margaret Theresa Habsburg Holy Roman Empress (age 21) died.
Chronicle of a Bourgeois of Valenciennes
Récits d’un bourgeois de Valenciennes aka The Chronicle of a Bourgeois of Valenciennes is a vivid 14th-century vernacular chronicle written by an anonymous urban chronicler from Valenciennes in the County of Hainaut. It survives in a manuscript that describes local and regional history from about 1253 to 1366, blending chronology, narrative episodes, and eyewitness-style accounts of political, military, and social events in medieval France, Flanders, and the Low Countries. The work begins with a chronological framework of events affecting Valenciennes and its region under rulers such as King Philip VI of France and the shifting allegiances of local nobility. It includes accounts of conflicts, sieges, diplomatic manoeuvres, and the impact of broader struggles like the Hundred Years’ War on urban life in Hainaut. Written from the perspective of a burgher (bourgeois) rather than a monastery or royal court, the chronicle offers a rare lay viewpoint on high politics and warfare, reflecting how merchants, townspeople, and civic institutions experienced the turbulence of the 13th and 14th centuries. Its narrative style combines straightforward reporting of events with moral and civic observations, making it a valuable source for readers interested in medieval urban society, regional politics, and the lived experience of war and governance in pre-modern Europe.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 12th March 1703 Aubrey de Vere 20th Earl of Oxford (age 76) died. Earl of Oxford extinct.
On 12th March 1727 Nicholas Garrard 3rd Baronet (age 72) died. Baronet Garrard of Langford in Norfolk extinct.
On 12th March 1751 Henry Lowther 3rd Viscount Lonsdale (age 57) died unmarried. Viscount Lonsdale in Westmoreland extinct.
On 12th March 1764 Charles Townshend 3rd Viscount Townsend (age 63) died. His son George (age 40) succeeded 4th George Townshend 1st Marquess Townshend, 4th Baron Townshend of Lynn Regis in Norfolk, 6th Baronet Townshend. His son George succeeded 4th Viscount Townsend.
On 12th March 1782 Mary Edwards Baroness Middleton died.
On 12th March 1786 Barbara Herbert Countess Powis (age 50) died.
On 12th March 1820 Charlotte Affleck Lady Dolben died.
On 12th March 1833 Francis Mathew 2nd Earl Landaff (age 65) died without issue. Earl Llandaff of Thomastown in Tipperary extinct.
On 12th March 1856 George Irby 3rd Baron Boston (age 78) died. His son George (age 53) succeeded 4th Baron Boston, 5th Baronet Irby of Whaplode and Boston. Fanny Elizabeth Hopkins-Northey Baroness Boston (age 47) by marriage Baroness Boston.
On 12th March 1874 Caroline Paget Duchess Richmond (age 77) 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.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 12th March 1884 Lucius Cary 10th Viscount Falkland (age 80) died. His brother Plantagenet (age 77) succeeded 11th Viscount Falkland, 2nd Baron Hunsdon of Scutterskelfe in the County of York.
On 12th March 1898 Orlando Bridgeman 3rd Earl Bradford (age 78) died at Weston Park, Staffordshire. His son George (age 53) succeeded 4th Earl Bradford, 4th Viscount Newport of Shropshire, 5th Baron Bradford in Shropshire, 9th Baronet Bridgeman of Great Lever in Lancashire. Ida Frances Annabella Lumley Countess Bradford (age 49) by marriage Countess Bradford.
On 12th March 1915 Frederica Cockerell Baroness North died.
On 12th March 1922 Ellen Gallwey Countess of Wharncliffe (age 58) died.
On 12th March 1944 Beatrix Louisa Lambton Countess Pembroke and Montgomery (age 85) died.
On 12th March 1948 Gertrude Stansfeld Foster Marchioness Normanby died.
On 12th March 1997 William Hare 5th Earl of Listowel (age 90) died. His son Francis (age 32) succeeded 6th Earl Listowel in County Kerry.
On 12th March 2004 Francis Henry Coventry 12th Earl Coventry (age 91) died. His fourth cousin George (age 64) succeeded 13th Earl Coventry.