Anne Boleyn. Her Life as told by Lancelot de Carle's 1536 Letter.
In 1536, two weeks after the execution of Anne Boleyn, her brother George and four others, Lancelot du Carle, wrote an extraordinary letter that described Anne's life, and her trial and execution, to which he was a witness. This book presents a new translation of that letter, with additional material from other contemporary sources such as Letters, Hall's and Wriothesley's Chronicles, the pamphlets of Wynkyn the Worde, the Memorial of George Constantyne, the Portuguese Letter and the Baga de Secrets, all of which are provided in Appendices.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
15 Sep is in September.
1189 Richard I Appoints his Bishops
1535 Sweating Sickness Outbreak
On 15th September 1054 García III King Pamplona (age 42) died in Barcelona [Map]. His son Sancho succeeded IV King Pamplona.
On 15th September 1146 Alan "Black" Penthièvre 1st Earl Richmond (age 46) died at Brittany [Map]. His son Conan (age 8) succeeded 2nd Earl Richmond.
On 15th September 1189 King Richard "Lionheart" I of England (age 32) held a Council meeting at Pipewell [Map] at which he appointed a number of Bishops:
Bishop William Longchamp was elected Bishop of Ely.
Bishop Godfrey Lucy was elected Bishop of Winchester.
Bishop Richard Fitzneal (age 59) was elected Bishop of London.
Archbishop Hubert Walter (age 29) was elected Bishop of Salisbury.
On 15th September 1231 Louis Wittelsbach I Duke Bavaria (age 57) was murdered. His son Otto (age 25) succeeded II Duke Bavaria. Agnes Welf Duchess Bavaria (age 30) by marriage Duchess Bavaria.
Chronicle of Geoffrey le Baker of Swinbroke [-1360]. In the same year, after Easter, grand tournaments were held at Lincoln by the Earl of Lancaster, who was later made Duke, with a large company of noble ladies in attendance. And envoys of the King of Spain came to arrange the betrothal of the king's daughter, Lady Joan (deceased),1 to the son (age 14) of their lord, the King of Spain. But while at Bordeaux, amid a great pestilence, of which more will be said later, she passed from this life, just as the bridegroom was arriving to meet her. She was then committed to burial with solemnity but also with tears. Such was the young lady's beauty of body and the abundance of her moral virtues that she was rendered gracious and beloved by all; and upon her death, the grief of her attendants was so profound that some followed their mistress even unto death.
Eodem anno, post Pascha, fuerunt apud Lincolniam per comitem Lancastrie, postea ducem, hastiludia solempnia celebrata, quibus interfuit plurima dominarum comitiva. Et nuncii regis Ispanie venerunt pro filia regis, domina Iohanna, filio domini sui regis desponsanda; que apud Burdegalim in magna pestilencia, de qua infra dicetur, viam universe carnis ingressa, adveniente sponso ii obviam, solempni set lacrimose committebatur sepulture. Tantam puellam pulcritudo corporalis atque abundancia virtutum moralium tam graciosam cunctis reddiderunt, quod ipsam obeuntem dolor suorum ministrorum compulit ipsos itinere! mortis sequi suam dominam,
Note 1. The princess Joan was betrothed to Pedro (afterwards known as Pedro the Cruel), now in his fourteenth year, son of Alfonso XI of Castille (age 37). Her death at Bordeaux was formally announced by Edward to the Spanish court by letter of the 15th September 1348. Rymer's Fœdera 3.171.
Rymer's Fœdera Volume 1. [15th September 1348] According to the statement of the Firstborn, concerning the aforesaid death.
Most noble child
We do not believe that it is unknown to Your Serenity how, after many negotiations between the magnificent prince, the King of Castile, your father, and our envoys and ambassadors concerning the marriage to be contracted between you and our most beloved daughter Joanna, which were held over successive periods, we, wishing at last to keep faith concerning what had thus been negotiated, sent our said daughter to Bordeaux, to be further conveyed to the regions of Spain, in accordance with the arrangement made by your said father, to be brought [to you] at the appointed time.
And subsequently, according to those things which were most recently negotiated and agreed upon between our envoys and those of your father, we decided that our said daughter, before the Feast of All Saints, should be sent to Bayonne, with an honorable retinue, as was fitting, to be there received by your representatives and immediately joined to you in marital union.
And those things which were to be paid by way of dowry or portion on that account, as well as all and everything else that was to be done by us in this matter, we caused to be amply prepared, not without serious expense and considerable depletion of our treasury.
Moreover, while we, with fatherly affection, believed that we had gained an adopted son for our mutual comfort, behold! (which we recount with tearful sighs and a bitter heart)death, that terror of all the kings of the earth,
Who devours the poor and the powerful, the young man and the nursing virgin, along with the old man, without regard for person or power, indiscriminately.
With the bond of this adoption thus torn apart by such a dreadful form of separation and a sorrowful kind of repudiation, our aforesaid daughter,
In whom all the gifts of Nature had come together, and whom, moreover, because of the elegance of her character, we sincerely loved above all others.
She has now been taken from your hoped-for embrace and from us, by the disordered course of fate.
For which reason, if we are pierced by the stings of intense grief, no mortal can wonder at it.
Yet, although such sighs and sorrows stir the depths of our paternal love, we nonetheless devoutly give thanks to God, who gave her to us and has taken her away, that He deigned to call her to Heaven, pure and undefiled, in the years of her innocence, rescuing her from the miseries of this deceitful world; where, joined to her heavenly Spouse, she shall reign forever among the choir of virgins, and may she be able to intercede unceasingly on our behalf.
We therefore earnestly entreat Your Highness that, turning over in the treasure-chest of your reflection that it cannot be imputed to us that this marriage was not completed, and that, besides the grievous loss of our daughter, we have incurred excessive expenses, you may at least be willing, with suitable counsel and assistance, to urge the magnificent King, your father, that the bonds of mutual friendship and indivisible union may be renewed between our royal houses, long united by ancient ties of blood and kinship; and that the bond of alliance, which was wisely fortified with Golden Letters between your forebears and ours, for themselves and for their descendants as well as ours, may now be confirmed anew with a fresh safeguard, as we are bound by a similar tie of kinship.
For above all other princes of the world, we are eager to comply with the wishes of your father, because of the renowned fame of his name (in the increase of which we find glory), and with yours as well"
Therefore, write back to us with confidence your wishes in these matters and in others that may, for the time being, be pleasing to you and yours.
Ad dictum Primogenitum, super præfata Morte.
Infans Præclarissime,
Serenitatem vestram latere non credimus qualiter, post multipharios Tractatus, inter, Magnificum Principem, Regem Castellæ, Progenitorem vestrum, ac Procuratores & Nuncios nostros, super Matrimonio, inter vos & Johannam Filiam nostram dilectissimam contrahendo, temporibus successivis habitos, tandem, fidem super sic Tractatis servare cupientes, præfatam Filiam nostram Burdegalis duximus transmittendam, ulteriùs ad partes Ispanniæ, statuendo per eundem Progenitorem vestrum Termino, traducendam.
Subsequenterque, juxta ea, quæ inter nostros & Genitoris vestri Procuratores & Nuncios novissime tractata & concordata fuerant, eandem Filiam nostram,citra Festum Omnium Sanctorum, apud Baionam, cum Venerabiii Comitivâ, prout decuit, ibidcm per Gentes vestras recipiendam, vestroque Maritali Consortio protinus copulandam, mittendam fore decrevimus,
Et ea, qux Dotis seu Dotalitii nomine pro eo solvi, ac omnia fllia & singula, quæ per nos in hac paite fieri debebant, non sine gravi jactura, & Ærarii nostri defalcatione mulriplici, parari fecimus habundanter.
Cæterùm, dùm nos, affectione paternâ, ad mutuum nostri Solatium, Filium habuisse putavimus Adoptivum, ecce! (quod cum singultuosis Suspiriis & amaro corde dolenter referimus) Mors, terribilis apud onines Reges Terræ,
Quæ Pauperem & Potentem, Juvenem & Virginem Lactatem, cum Homine Sene, sine personæ seu Potentiæ delectu, indifferenter absorbet,
Adoptionis hujusmodi Vinculo, diro Emancipationis modo, & mæstuoso Repudii genere, dirupto, præsatam Filiam nostram,
In quam Naturæ Dotes universæ confluxerant, quam etiam, Morum suorum Elegantiâ poscente, præ cæteris, sincere dileximus,
A vestris speratis Amplexibus & a nobis, turbato fatalitatis ordine, jam subduxit;
Quâ de causâ, si Doloris intensi pungamur aculeis, nullus mortalium poterit admirari.
Verùm,licet ad hujusmodi Gemitus & Mœrores pietatis viscera nos inducant, Deo tamen (qui ipsam nobis dedit & abstulit) gratias devotè referimus quòd Eam, puram & immaculatam, in annis Innocentiæ suæ, a Miseriis hujiis iViundi fallacis eripiens, ad Cœlos vocare dignatus est; ubi, Sponso Cœlesti conjuncta, in Choro Virginum perpetuò regnatura, pro Nobis intercedere valeat incessanter.
Vestram igitur Celsitudinem rogamus attentè quatenus, in considerationis vestræ scrinio revolventes quòd nobis impingi non poterit quominus Matrimonium hujusmodi compleretur, quodque, præter duram Amissionem Filiæ nostræ, sumptus secimus excessivos, saltem erga Magnificum Regem Progenitorem vestrum instare velitis Consiliis & Auxiliis oportunis, ut inter Domos nostras Regias, inveterato Sanguinis & Affinitatis Jure conjunctas, Amicitiæ mutuæ & Unionis individuæ Fœdera renoventur, & Alligationis Vinculum, quod inter Progenitores suos & nostros, pro se, & Posteris suis, ac nostris, Literis Aureis providè Vallatum suerat, inter nos, consimilis Generis funiculo religatos, recenti munimine confirmetur.
Desideriis enim Genitoris vestri, præ cæteris Mundi Principibus, propter celebrem sui nominis famam (in cujus augmento gloriara) annuere cupimus atque vestris.
Rescribatis igitur Nobis fiducialiter vota vestra in hiis, & aliis, quæ Vobis & vestris poterunt pro tempore complacere.
Dat. ut supra.
Rymer's Fœdera Volume 3. [15th September 1348] Concerning the tragic death of Joanna (deceased), the King's daughter, who had been sent to Bordeaux to be married to the firstborn son of the King of Castile.
To the Most Serene Prince, Lord Alfonso, by the grace of God, King of Castile, León, Toledo, Galicia, Seville, Córdoba, Murcia, Jaén, Algarve, and Algeciras, the Illustrious, and Lord of the County of Molina, his most dear kinsman: Edward, by the same grace, King of France and England, and Lord of Ireland, sends greeting and ever-glorious wishes for your continued success.
To contract our most beloved daughter in marriage, for the good of perpetual peace and the fostering of an unbreakable union between our royal houses, we at length sent our said daughter to Bordeaux, to be conveyed further to your regions in Spain.
And although, according to the matters that were most recently negotiated, agreed upon, and settled between your envoys and ours concerning this transfer and the payment of the money by way of dowry or marriage portion, we had prepared all and everything that was to be done by us within the terms set for that purpose, not without serious loss and no small diminution of our treasury,
Behold! yet (which we recount with deep bitterness of heart) cruel Death, who strikes down the young as well as the old, and spares no one until the rich and the poor alike meet together, has now, to our sorrow and to yours, taken from us our most beloved daughter (whom, above all others, we sincerely loved, as her most excellent qualities so rightly demanded);
For which reason, if we are inwardly pierced by the sting of bitter sorrow according to the flesh, no mortal can wonder at it.
But we, who have placed our trust in God and in whose hands, in many grave perils, our life has often been enclosed, give thanks to Him that He has taken one of our own, free from every stain, whom we loved so purely, and has sent her before us to Heaven, to reign among the choirs of virgins, that she may be both willing and able to intercede with Him for our sins.
Wherefore, we earnestly and unceasingly beseech Your Royal Highness that,
Since it is not through any fault of ours that the completion of so renowned a marriage and the previously arranged bond of alliance has failed, and because, beyond the grievous loss of our daughter, we have also incurred excessive expenses on that account,
To these things we direct the eyes of your just consideration,
At the very least, may the ancient bonds of friendship and true affection be renewed between our royal houses, which are joined by right of blood; and may the bond of alliance, which was wisely confirmed by Golden Letters between our forebears, for themselves and their descendants, now be strengthened with greater favor between us, who are bound by a tie of similar kind.
For among earthly princes, because of the most illustrious fame of your name, we desire to incline ourselves to your wishes, and to take delight in your successes (which may God ever increase); and we invite you to write back to us with confidence your desires in these and other matters that may please you.
Given at the King's Palace at Westminster, on the fifteenth day of September.
De Morte sunesta Johannæ, Filiæ Regis, Burdegalis transmissæ, Primogenito Regis Castellæ maritandæ.
Serenissimo Principi, Domino Alfonso, Dci gratiâ, Castellæ, Legionis, Toleti, Galiciæ, Sibiliæ,Cordubæ, Murcii, Giennii, Algarbiæ, & Algeziræ Regi Illustri, ac Comitatûs Molinæ Domino, Consanguineo suo carissimo, Edwardus, eâdem gratiæ, Rex Franciæ & Angliæ, & Dominus Hiberniæ, Salutein & votivis semper Successibus gloriari.
Magnficentiam vestram Regiam latere non credimus quòd,post multos & varios Tractatus, habitos super Matrimonio, inter Inclitum Infantem Petrum Filium vestrum Primogenitum & Johannam
Filiam nostram dilectissimam contrahendo, pro bono Pacis perpetuæ & Unionis indissolubis inter Domos nostras Regias confovendo, tandem præfatam Filiam nostram Burdegalis transmisimus, ulteriùs ad partes vestras Ispanniæ traducendam:
Et licet, juxta ea, quæ inter Procuratores & Nuncios vestros & nostros, super hujusmodi Traductione, & Pecuniæ, Dotis seu Dotalitii nomine, solutione, novissime tractata, consensa, & concordata suerant, omnia & singula, quæ per nos in Terminis, ad hoc statutis, fieri debebant, non sine jacturâ gravi, & Ærarii nostri extenuatione non modicâ, parassemus,
Ecce! tamen(quod cum intensâ cordis amaritudine dolenter referimus) Mors funesta (quæ sicut Senem, sic Juvenem intercipit, & nemini parcit, donec insimul & in unum conveniant Dives atque Pauper) carissimam Filiam nostram (quam, præ cæteris, Conditionibus suis celeberrimis id poscentibus, sinceriter dileximus) a nobis pariter & a vobis lamentabiliter jam subtraxit;
Pro quo, si pungentis Mœroris aculeo secundum carnem interiùs perfundamur, nemo mortalis poterit admirari.
Set Nos, qui in Deo posuimus fidem nostram, & inter cujus manus sæpius, in arduis periculis,concluserat Vitam nostram, gratias fibi reddimus quòd unam de nostris, ab omni maculâ liberam, quam sic pure dileximus, ad Cœlos præmisit inter Choros Virginum regnaturam, quæ pro nostris reatibus velit & valeat intercedere penes eum.
Quamobrem Celstudini vestræ Regias quæsumus incessanter ut,
Ex quo per nos non stat quo minus compleatur, ratione tam celebris Matrimonii, Alligationis vinculum prælocutum, set propterea, prætcr duram Amissionem Filiæ nostræ, Sumptus fecimus excessivos,
Ad hæc vestræ justæ considerationis oculos dirigentes,
Saltem inter Domos nostras regias, quæ jure Sanguinis conjunguntur, Amicitiæ & veræ dilectionis antiqua Fœdera renoventur; & Alligationis vinculum, quod inter Progenitores nostros, pro eis & suis Posteris Liceris Aureis prudenter suerat confirmatum, inter Nos, simili Genetis forcitudine colligatos, majori gratiâ roboretur.
Inter etenim Terrenos Principes, propter Famam vestri nominis clarissimam, vestris cupimus desideriis inclinare, & in vestris Profectibus (quos Deus semper amplificet) delectari; rescribentes nobis in hiis, & cæteris, qux vobis piacuerint, siducialiter vota vestra.
Dat. in Palatio Regis Westm. decimo quinto die Septembris.
On 15th September 1375 John Mohun 2nd Baron Mohun of Dunster (age 55) died. Since he had no male issue the title Baron Mohun of Dunster went into abeyance between his three daughters. Elizabeth Mohun Countess of Salisbury had one child who died in 1397. Philippa Mohun Duchess York (age 8) didn't have issue. Maud Mohun Baroness Strange Knockin (age 18) had one son Richard Strange 3rd Baron Dunster 7th Baron Strange Knockin who succeeded as 3rd Baron Mohun of Dunster on the death of his aunt Philippa Mohun Duchess York.
Before 15th September 1398 the future Henry IV (age 31) reported to King Richard II (age 31) that Thomas Mowbray 1st Duke of Norfolk (age 30) had made a treasonous remark regarding Richard's rule. Richard II proposed a duel of honour at Gosford Green, Caludon, Coventry [Map], near Mowbray's home Caludon Castle.
On 15th September 1398 the future Henry IV (age 31) spent the night at Baginton Castle, Warwickshire [Map], the home of his friend William Bagot. Thomas Mowbray (age 30) spent the night at his home Caludon Castle, Warwickshire [Map].
On 15th September 1408 Edmund Holland 4th Earl Kent (age 24) was killed at Île de Bréhat. He was buried in Bourne Abbey, Lincolnshire [Map]. Earl Kent extinct. Baron Holand, Baron Wake of Liddell abeyant. See Walsingham.
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.
Thomas Walsingham [~1422]. [15th September 1408] Lord Thomas (age 24), Earl of Kent, while besieging the castle of Briaut in Brittany, was struck in the head by a bolt from a crossbow. Nevertheless, he captured the castle and completely destroyed it; but not long afterwards, when his brain had become putrid, he met his death.
Dominus Thomas Comes Canciæ, dum obsidet castrum de Briaut in Britannia, spiculo balistæ vulneratus in capite, cepit tamen castrum et destruxit funditus; nec multo post, putrefacto cerebro, mortem incurrit.
On 15th September 1500 Cardinal John Morton (age 80) died at Knole House, Sevenoaks.
Chronicle of Robert Fabyan [-1512]. 15th September 1500. And this j'ere dyed doctour Morton (age 80), cardynall and chaunceler of Englande, in the moneth of October [September].
On 15th September 1505 Mary Queen Hungary was born to Philip "Handsome Fair" King Castile (age 27) and Joanna "The Mad" Trastámara Queen Castile (age 26). Coefficient of inbreeding 2.88%.
The Love Letters of Henry VIII to Anne Boleyn. Letter 16. Henry VIII (age 37) to Anne Boleyn (age 27).
The reasonable request of your last letter, with the pleasure also that I take to know them true, causeth me to send you these news. The legate which we most desire arrived at Paris on Sunday or Monday last past, so that I trust by the next Monday to hear of his arrival at Calais: and then I trust within a while after to enjoy that which I have so long longed for, to God's pleasure and our both comforts.
No more to you at this present, mine own darling, for lack of time, but that I would you were in mine arms, or I in yours, for I think it long since I kissed you.
Written after the killing of a hart, at eleven of the clock, minding, with God's grace, to-morrow, mightily timely, to kill another, by the hand which, I trust, shortly shall be yours.
Henry R.
Note. The date of this letter is presumed to be middle September 1528.
On 15th September 1533 Catherine of Austria Queen Consort Poland was born to Ferdinand I Holy Roman Emperor (age 30) and Anne Jagiellon (age 30). She married (1) 22nd October 1549 her fifth cousin Francesco Gonzaga III Duke Mantua, son of Federico Gonzaga II Duke Mantua and Margaret Palaeologina Duchess Mantua (2) 30th July 1553 Sigismund II King Poland.
Letters and Papers Foreign and Domestic Henry VIII 1535. 15th September 1535. R. O. St. P. I. 448. 370. Sir Thomas Audeley, Chancellor, to Cromwell.
Has received the King's letters, dated the 13th inst., for writs to be made to all sheriffs to notify the prorogation of Parliament to 4 Feb. Will use diligence. Audeley, the Speaker, and some others, must assemble in the Houses 3 Nov. next, to prorogue the same. Is glad of the adjournment of the term, considering the increase of sickness in the city. His advice, since the King desires it, is that Parliament be prorogued till 4 Feb., and the term till Crastino Animarum, by which time, by coldness of the weather, the plague should cease; if not, it may then be prorogued till Hilary Term. To adjourn the whole term suddenly would be prejudicial. One justice must sit in every Court on the first day of the term to receive the King's writ for the adjournment. Asks whether the Exchequer shall be adjourned with the rest, and advises that all should be adjourned together.
The new sheriffs of London have granted Audeley the nomination of under-sheriff of Middlesex. Hears Cromwell has since written to the sheriffs for the same; and reminds him that last year he (Audeley) had such a grant, but abstained from using it, when Cromwell promised not to interrupt him again. Has few advancements for his servants, Cromwell has many; begs he may enjoy the grant. Humble commendations to the King and Queen. Old Forde, 15 Sept. Signed.
Henry Machyn's Diary. 15th September 1561. The sam day the Quen('s) (age 28) grace removyd from Hatford castyll [Map] in Hatford-shyre unto Enfeld [Map] within x mylle of London.
Henry Machyn's Diary. 15th September 1561. The xv day of September tydynges cam to London [that] the kynge of Sweythland (age 27) was landyd in the North at ...., and yt be truw as the sayng was then.
On 15th September 1574 Margaret Valois Duchess Berry and Savoy (age 51) died.
Diary of Anne Clifford. 15th September 1617. Upon the 15th we rid on horseback to my Lady Selby's, all this week I being at home and was sad to see how ill things went with me. My Lord (age 28) being in the midst of his merry progress far out of Sussex where he had hunted in many gentlemen's Parks. Then he went to Woodstock to meet the King, and he stay'd up and down at many gentlemen's houses a good while. From thence he went to the Bath where he stay'd not above two days but yet returned to London till about Michaelmas.
Between 15th September 1648 and 27th November 1648 the Treaty of Newport attempted to reconcile King Charles I of England, Scotland and Ireland (age 47) (who was imprisoned at nearby Carisbrooke Castle [Map]) with Parliament. Denzil Holles 1st Baron Holles (age 48) and Henry Vane "The Younger" (age 35) represented Parliament. James Butler 1st Duke Ormonde (age 37) represented King Charles. The Treaty eventually came to nothing.
Parliament was also represented by John Crew 1st Baron Crew (age 50), John Glynne (age 46), Nathaniel Fiennes (age 40), William Pierrepont of Thoresby (age 40), Algernon Percy 10th Earl of Northumberland (age 45), William Fiennes 1st Viscount Saye and Sele (age 66), Philip Herbert 4th Earl Pembroke 1st Earl Montgomery (age 63), William Cecil 2nd Earl Salisbury (age 57), James Cranfield 2nd Earl Middlesex (age 27) and Thomas Wenman 2nd Viscount Wenman (age 52).
John Evelyn's Diary. 15th September 1651. I accompanied Sir Richard Browne (age 46), my father-in-law, to the French Court, when he had a favorable audience of the French King (age 13), and the Queen (age 49), his mother; congratulating the one on his coming to the exercise of his royal charge, and the other's prudent and happy administration during her late regency, desiring both to preserve the same amity for his master, our King, as they had hitherto done, which they both promised, with many civil expressions and words of course upon such occasions. We were accompanied both going and returning by the Introductor of Ambassadors and Aid of Ceremonies. I also saw the audience of Morosini, the Ambassador of Venice, and divers other Ministers of State from German Princes, Savoy, etc. Afterward I took a walk in the King's gardens, where I observed that the mall goes the whole square there of next the wall, and bends with an angle so made as to glance the wall; the angle is of stone. There is a basin at the end of the garden fed by a noble fountain and high jetto. There were in it two or three boats, in which the King now and then rows about. In another part is a complete fort, made with bastions, graft, half-moons, ravelins, and furnished with great guns cast on purpose to instruct the King in fortification.
On 15th September 1656 John Dethick was knighted by Oliver Cromwell (age 57).
On 15th September 1657 George Villiers 2nd Duke of Buckingham (age 29) and Mary Fairfax Duchess Buckingham (age 19) were married. She by marriage Duchess of Buckingham. He the son of George Villiers 1st Duke of Buckingham and Katherine Manners Duchess Buckingham. They were half fifth cousins.
John Evelyn's Diary. 15th September 1659. Came to see me Mr. Brereton (age 28), a very learned gentleman, son to my Lord Brereton (age 48), with his wife and divers other ladies. Also, Henry Howard of Norfolk (age 31), since Duke of Norfolk.
Adam Murimuth's Continuation and Robert of Avesbury’s 'The Wonderful Deeds of King Edward III'
This volume brings together two of the most important contemporary chronicles for the reign of Edward III and the opening phases of the Hundred Years’ War. Written in Latin by English clerical observers, these texts provide a vivid and authoritative window into the political, diplomatic, and military history of fourteenth-century England and its continental ambitions. Adam Murimuth Continuatio's Chronicarum continues an earlier chronicle into the mid-fourteenth century, offering concise but valuable notices on royal policy, foreign relations, and ecclesiastical affairs. Its annalistic structure makes it especially useful for establishing chronology and tracing the development of events year by year. Complementing it, Robert of Avesbury’s De gestis mirabilibus regis Edwardi tertii is a rich documentary chronicle preserving letters, treaties, and official records alongside narrative passages. It is an indispensable source for understanding Edward III’s claim to the French crown, the conduct of war, and the mechanisms of medieval diplomacy. Together, these works offer scholars, students, and enthusiasts a reliable and unembellished account of a transformative period in English and European history. Essential for anyone interested in medieval chronicles, the Hundred Years’ War, or the reign of Edward III.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 15th September 1660. Met very early at our office this morning to pick out the twenty-five ships which are to be first paid off: After that to Westminster and dined with Mr. Dalton at his office, where we had one great court dish, but our papers not being done we could [not] make an end of our business till Monday next. Mr. Dalton and I over the water to our landlord Vanly, with whom we agree as to Dalton becoming a tenant. Back to Westminster, where I met with Dr. Castles, who chidd me for some errors in our Privy-Seal business; among the rest, for letting the fees of the six judges pass unpaid, which I know not what to say to, till I speak to Mr. Moore. I was much troubled, for fear of being forced to pay the money myself. Called at my father's (age 59) going home, and bespoke mourning for myself, for the death of the Duke of Gloucester (deceased). I found my mother pretty well. So home and to bed.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 15th September 1662. At White Hall we hear that the Duke of York (age 28) is gone a-hunting to-day; and so we returned: they going to the Duke of Albemarle's (age 53), where I left them (after I had observed a very good picture or two there), and so home, and there did resolve to give up my endeavours for access to the leads, and to shut up my doors lest the being open might give them occasion of longing for my chamber, which I am in most fear about.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 15th September 1666. In the evening there comes to me Captain Cocke (age 49), and walked a good while in the garden. He says he hath computed that the rents of houses lost by this fire in the City comes to £600,000 per annum; that this will make the Parliament, more quiet than otherwise they would have been, and give the King (age 36) a more ready supply; that the supply must be by excise, as it is in Holland; that the Parliament will see it necessary to carry on the warr; that the late storm hindered our beating the Dutch fleete, who were gone out only to satisfy the people, having no business to do but to avoid us; that the French, as late in the yeare as it is, are coming; that the Dutch are really in bad condition, but that this unhappinesse of ours do give them heart; that there was a late difference between my Lord Arlington (age 48) and Sir W. Coventry (age 38) about neglect in the last to send away an express of the other's in time; that it come before the King, and the Duke of Yorke (age 32) concerned himself in it; but this fire hath stopped it.
On 15th September 1666 Sophia Dorothea of Celle was born illegitimately to George Wilhelm Hanover Duke Brunswick-Lüneburg (age 42) and Eleonore Esmier D'Olbreuse Duchess Brunswick-Lüneburg. She married (1) 21st November 1682 her first cousin King George I, son of Ernest Augustus Hanover Elector Brunswick-Lüneburg and Electress Sophia Palatinate Simmern, and had issue.
On 15th September 1667 Edgar Stewart 1st Duke Cambridge was born to James Duke of York (age 33) and Anne Hyde Duchess of York (age 30). He died aged three in 1671.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 15th September 1668. So took wife and Mercer and Deb. and W. Hewer (age 26) (who are all to set out this day for Cambridge, to cozen Roger Pepys's (age 51), to see Sturbridge Fayre); and I shewed them the Exchange [Map], which is very finely carried on, with good dispatch. So walked back and saw them gone, there being only one man in the coach besides them; and so home to the Office, where Mrs. Daniel come and staid talking to little purpose with me to borrow money, but I did not lend her any, having not opportunity para hater allo thing mit her. At the office all the morning, and at noon dined with my people at home, and so to the office again a while, and so by water to the King's playhouse, to see a new play, acted but yesterday, a translation out of French by Dryden (age 37), called "The Ladys a la Mode" so mean a thing as, when they come to say it would be acted again to-morrow, both he that said it, Beeson, and the pit fell a-laughing, there being this day not a quarter of the pit full.
John Evelyn's Diary. 15th September 1685. I accompanied Mr. Pepys (age 52) to Portsmouth [Map], whither his Ma* (age 51) was going the first time since his coming to the Crowne, to see in what state the fortifications were. We tooke coach and six horses, late after dinner, yet got to Bagshot that night. Whilst supper was making ready I went and made a visit to Mrs. Graham (age 34), some time maid of honour to ye Queene Dowager (age 46), now wife to James Graham, Esq (age 36) of the privy purse to the King; her house being a walke in the forest, within a little quarter of a mile from Bagshot towne. Very importunate she was that I would sup, and abide there that night, but being obliged by my companion, I return'd to our inn, after she had shew'd me her house, wch was very commodious and well furnish'd, as she was an excellent housewife, a prudent and virtuous lady. There is a parke full of red deere about it. Her eldest son was now sick there of the small-pox, but in a likely way of recovery, and other of her children run about, and among the infected, wnh she said she let them do on purpose that they might whilst young pass that fatal disease she fancied they were to undergo one time or other, and that this would be the best: the severity of this cruell disease so lately in my poore family confirming much of what she affirmed.
John Evelyn's Diary. 15th September 1692. There happened an earthquake, which, though not so great as to do any harm in England, was universal in all these parts of Europe. It shook the house at Wotton, but was not perceived by any save a servant or two, who were making my bed, and another in a garret. I and the rest being at dinner below in the parlor, were not sensible of it. The dreadful one in Jamaica this summer was profanely and ludicrously represented in a puppet play, or some such lewd pastime, in the fair of Southwark [Map], which caused the Queen (age 30) to put down that idle and vicious mock show.
On 15th September 1701 John Germain 1st Baronet (age 51) and Mary Mordaunt Duchess Norfolk (age 42) were married. She by marriage Lady Germain of Westminster. She the daughter of Henry Mordaunt 2nd Earl Peterborough and Penelope O'Brien Countess Peterborough (age 79).
On 15th September 1712 Sidney Godolphin 1st Earl Godolphin (age 67) died. His son Francis (age 34) succeeded 2nd Earl Godolphin, 2nd Viscount Rialton, 2nd Baron Godolphin of Rialton in Cornwall. Henrietta Churchill 2nd Duchess of Marlborough (age 31) by marriage Countess Godolphin.
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.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 15th September 1740 Jean-Baptiste-André Gautier-Dagoty was born.
On 15th September 1791 George Spencer-Churchill 5th Duke of Marlborough (age 25) and Susan Stewart Duchess of Marlborough (age 24) were married. She the daughter of John Stewart 7th Earl Galloway (age 55) and Anne Dashwood Countess Galloway (age 48). He the son of George Spencer 4th Duke of Marlborough (age 52) and Caroline Russell Duchess of Marlborough (age 48).
On the 15th September 1830 the Liverpool-Manchester Railway was opened by the Duke of Wellington. Several trains travelled between Liverpool and Manchester. The line had a number of stations: Liverpool Crown Street, Roby, Parkside, Eccles and Manchester Liverpool Road.
A collision took place at Parr. Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine, who was travelling in the lead train on the northern track, hauled by Phoenix: "One of our engine wheels, how I know not, contrived to bolt from the course—in plain words, it escaped from the rail, and ploughed along upon the clay, with no other inconvenience than an increase of friction, which damped our speed, and with the additional application of the break, soon brought us to an anchor. The engine, however, behind us, not being aware of our mishap, came pelting on at a smart pace, without receiving its signal for checking motion in time. Accordingly, those on the look-out hastily called on their fellow-passengers to be on their guard, and prepare for a jolt, which took place with a crash upon our rear, sufficiently loud and forcible to give an idea of what would happen, if by any strange chance it had charged us with the unrestrained impetuosity of its powers."
At Parr the Duke of Wellington's train stopped for water. Despite a request from the railway engineers for passengers to remain on the trains, around fifty men disembarked from the Duke's train to stretch their legs. The group consisted of many of the most influential figures of the day, including the Marquess of Stafford (age 72), Charles Arbuthnot (age 63), Prince Esterházy, and the Earl of Wilton (age 30).
At Parkside William Huskisson (age 60) went to shake the hand of the Duke of Wellington. As they exchanged greetings, some of the crowd saw Rocket, hauling the third of the seven trains on the northern track, approaching in the distance. They shouted "An engine is approaching, take care gentlemen" to those people—including Huskisson—standing on the tracks. Huskisson tried to clamber into the carriage, but those inside failed to reach him to pull him in. Holmes, still pressed against the carriage, shouted "For God's sake, Mr Huskisson, be firm", but Huskisson grabbed the door of the carriage. With Holmes still pressed against the side of the carriage, the door, with Huskisson hanging on to it, swung out directly into the path of Rocket. Rocket collided with the door and Huskisson fell onto the track in front of the locomotive. In the words of Harriet Arbuthnot (age 37), who was in the Duke's carriage, "[Huskisson] was caught by it, thrown down & the engine passed over his leg & thigh, crushing it in a most frightful way. It is impossible to give an idea of the scene that followed, of the horror of everyone present or of the piercing shrieks of his unfortunate wife, who was in the car. He said scarcely more than, 'It's all over with me. Bring me my wife and let me die.'"
1831 colour engraving of Parkside station:
Charles Arbuthnot: On 14th March 1767 he was born. On 28th February 1799 he and Marcia Clapcote Lisle were married at Cholmondeley House. On 31st January 1814 he and Harriet Fane were married at St Nicholas' Church, Fulbeck. The difference in their ages was 26 years. On 18th August 1850 he died at Apsley House, Hyde Park Corner.
Harriet Fane: On 10th September 1793 she was born to Henry Fane of Fulbeck and Anne Buckley Batson. In August 1834 Harriet Fane died.
On 15th September 1846 Eustace Arkwright (age 27) died of typhus at Geneva.
Ten Years' Digging. On the 15th of September we opened a barrow called Lady Low [Map], near Blore, not far from that examined on the 2nd July [Note. The barrow on the 2nd of July is described as Lady Low?]. It is twenty yards across, and has a central elevation of three feet and a half, formed of compact earth, burnt red about the middle, below which the earth was ash-coloured and plentifully mixed with charcoal down to the natural surface, where the latter was so abundant as to form a layer in some places several inches thick. A deposit of calcined bones occupied the exact centre of the mound; they were raised a few inches from the floor, and were embedded in charcoal. Amongst them were an arrow-head of white flint, a bone pin, and some fragments of very thin bronze, all much burnt Higher up we discovered, by cutting with the spade, a small oval cavity, eight inches long by four wide, surrounded by charcoal, which was quite empty, but suggested the idea of a wooden or wicker vessel that had been partly consumed and covered with earth. A few instruments of flinty and some very minute and indeterminate pieces of bronze, were found at no great depth below the turf, in the centre of the barrow.
After 15th September 1853. Monument to Richard Brownlow 2nd Baronet in St Peter and St Paul Church, Belton [Map] sculpted by Baron Pietro Carlo Marochetti (age 48).
Richard Brownlow 2nd Baronet: Before 1643 he was born to William Brownlow 1st Baronet and Elizabeth Duncombe. Before 26th June 1659 Richard Brownlow 2nd Baronet and Elizabeth Freke Lady Brownlow were married. In 1666 William Brownlow 1st Baronet died. His son Richard succeeded 2nd Baronet Brownlow of Humby in Lincolnshire. Elizabeth Freke Lady Brownlow by marriage Lady Brownlow of Humby in Lincolnshire.
On 15th September 1864 Sigismund Hohenzollern was born to Frederick III King Prussia (age 32) and Victoria Empress Germany Queen Consort Prussia (age 23). He a grandson of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom. He died aged one in 1866.
Derbyshire Archaeological Journal Volume 30 1908 Page 155. 15th September 1868. The following biographical sketch is taken from The Sheffield and Rotherham lndependent of September 15th, 1868:
The death of Samuel Mitchell (deceased), Esq., which took place at an early hour yesterday morning, will be learned with regret by a wide circle of friends. Mr. Mitchell was born on the 13th February, 1803, and was the son of Mr. Samuel Mitchell, of Sheffield and Whiteley Wood, merchant, by Elizabeth, daughter of Mr. William Brightmore and grandson of Thomas Bolsover, the inventor of the useful art of silver plating. When quite a young man he evinced a decided taste for antiquarian pursuits, and subsequently became one of our best known students of the Past.
On 15th September 1870 Frances Louisa Spencer-Churchill Lady Gresley was born to George Charles Spencer-Churchill 8th Duke of Marlborough (age 26) and Albertha Frances Anne Hamilton Duchess of Marlborough (age 23). She married 6th June 1893 Robert Gresley 11th Baronet, son of Thomas Gresley 10th Baronet and Laura Anne Williams Lady Gresley, and had issue.
On 15th September 1884 Gilbert Henry Chandos Leigh (age 33) died in a hunting accident on a shooting expedition in the Big Horn Mountains Wyoming. Monument in Church of the Virgin Mary, Stoneleigh [Map] sculpted by Edwardo Orlandini.
Gilbert Henry Chandos Leigh: On 1st September 1851 he was born to William Henry Leigh 2nd Baron Leigh and Caroline Amelia Grosvenor Baroness Leigh.
On 15th September 1890 Agatha Christie née Miller was born to Frederick Alvah Miller (age 44).
On 15th September 1891 John Steell (age 86) died.
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.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 15th September 1894 Elizabeth Jane Anson Baroness Waterpark (age 78) died. Memorial at St Cuthbert's Church, Doveridge [Map].
Elizabeth Jane Anson Baroness Waterpark: On 26th February 1816 she was born to Thomas Anson 1st Viscount Anson and Anne Margaret Coke Viscountess Anson. In 1837 Henry Cavendish 3rd Baron Waterpark and she were married. She by marriage Baroness Waterpark. The difference in their ages was 22 years.
On 15th September 1916 Charles William Reginald Duncombe 2nd Earl Feversham (age 37) was killed in action at Flers-Courcelette, Somme during the Battle of Flers-Courcelette.
Note. Charles Duncombe 3rd Earl Feversham (age 9) succeeded 3rd Earl Feversham, 5th Baron Feversham of Duncombe Park in Yorkshire.
On 15th September 1916 Lieutenant Colonel Arthur Paston Mack (age 53) was killed in action at the Battle of the Somme. Memorial at St Margaret's Church, Paston [Map].
Lieutenant Colonel Arthur Paston Mack: On 22nd January 1863 he was born to John Mack of Paston Hall.
On 15th September 1916 Raymond Herbert Asquith (age 37) was killed in action while leading the first half of 4 Company in an attack near Ginchy on 15 September 1916, at the Battle of Flers-Courcelette; he was shot in the chest.
15th September 1938. A Page from the Visitors Book, Commemorating the Royal Visit of King George VI (age 42) to St Michael's Church, Coxwold, North Yorkshire [Map] with signatures of the King, top, and Captain Victor Malcolm Wombwell (age 45), bottom.
On 15th September 1943 Norton Knatchbull 6th Baron Brabourne (age 21) was executed by the SS in Bronzolo after having attempted to escape whilst on his way to captivity. He was buried in Padua War Cemetery. His brother John (age 18) succeeded 7th Baron Bradbourne, 16th Baronet Knatchbull of Mersham Hatch in Kent.
On 15th September 1952 Very Reverend Frederic Athelwold Iremonger (age 74) died. Memorial in Winchester Cathedral [Map] sculpted by Bertram Mackennal.
Very Reverend Frederic Athelwold Iremonger: On 8th July 1878 he was born to William Henry Iremonger and Mary Sophia Iremonger.
On 15th September 1972 Archbishop Geoffrey Fisher (age 85) died.
On 15th September 1973 Gustaf Adolph VI King Sweden (age 90) died. His grandson Carl (age 27) succeeded XVI King Sweden. Silvia Sommerlath Queen Consort Sweden by marriage Queen Consort Sweden.
On 15th September 1984 Prince Harry Windsor Duke Sussex was born to King Charles III (age 35) and Diana Spencer Princess Wales (age 23). He a grandson of Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom.
On 15th September 2000 William Duke Coleridge 5th Baron Coleridge (age 63) and Rosemary Frances Scoones Viscoutess Exmouth were married. She by marriage Baroness Coleridge of Ottery St Mary in Devon. She the former wife of Murray Beauclerk 14th Duke St Albans (age 61) and Paul Pellew 10th Viscount Exmouth (age 59).
On 15th September 1317 Alan Zouche 2nd Baron Zouche Mortimer was born to William Zouche 1st Baron Zouche Mortimer (age 52) and Alice Tosny Countess Warwick (age 33) at Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leicestershire. He married Eleanor Damory Baroness Zouche Mortimer and had issue.
On 15th September 1505 Mary Queen Hungary was born to Philip "Handsome Fair" King Castile (age 27) and Joanna "The Mad" Trastámara Queen Castile (age 26). Coefficient of inbreeding 2.88%.
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.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 15th September 1533 Catherine of Austria Queen Consort Poland was born to Ferdinand I Holy Roman Emperor (age 30) and Anne Jagiellon (age 30). She married (1) 22nd October 1549 her fifth cousin Francesco Gonzaga III Duke Mantua, son of Federico Gonzaga II Duke Mantua and Margaret Palaeologina Duchess Mantua (2) 30th July 1553 Sigismund II King Poland.
On 15th September 1634 George Calvert was born to Cecil Calvert 2nd Baron Baltimore (age 29) and Ann Arundell Baroness Baltimore (age 18). He died aged one in 1636.
On 15th September 1666 Sophia Dorothea of Celle was born illegitimately to George Wilhelm Hanover Duke Brunswick-Lüneburg (age 42) and Eleonore Esmier D'Olbreuse Duchess Brunswick-Lüneburg. She married (1) 21st November 1682 her first cousin King George I, son of Ernest Augustus Hanover Elector Brunswick-Lüneburg and Electress Sophia Palatinate Simmern, and had issue.
On 15th September 1667 Edgar Stewart 1st Duke Cambridge was born to James Duke of York (age 33) and Anne Hyde Duchess of York (age 30). He died aged three in 1671.
On 15th September 1730 Admiral Samuel Barrington was born to John Shute aka Barrington 1st Viscount Barrington (age 52) and Anne Daines Viscountess Barrington (age 40).
On 15th September 1740 Jean-Baptiste-André Gautier-Dagoty was born.
On 15th September 1744 William Ponsonby 1st Baron Ponsonby of Imokilly in County Cork was born to John Ponsonby (age 31) and Elizabeth Cavendish (age 18). He married 1769 Louisa Molesworth Countess Fitzwilliam, daughter of Richard Molesworth 3rd Viscount Molesworth, and had issue.
On 15th September 1769 Walter Aston 9th Baronet was born to Walter Aston 8th Baronet (age 36).
On 15th September 1792 Mary Fortescue was born to Hugh Fortescue 1st Earl Fortescue (age 39) and Hester Granville Countess Fortescue (age 26). She married in or before 1824 James Hamlyn-Williams 3rd Baronet, son of James Hamlyn-Williams 2nd Baronet and Diana Anne Whitaker, and had issue.
On 15th September 1798 Harriet Theodora Hobhouse was born to Benjamin Hobhouse 1st Baronet (age 41) and Amelia Parry. She married 1823 Bishop George Spencer.
Adam Murimuth's Continuation and Robert of Avesbury’s 'The Wonderful Deeds of King Edward III'
This volume brings together two of the most important contemporary chronicles for the reign of Edward III and the opening phases of the Hundred Years’ War. Written in Latin by English clerical observers, these texts provide a vivid and authoritative window into the political, diplomatic, and military history of fourteenth-century England and its continental ambitions. Adam Murimuth Continuatio's Chronicarum continues an earlier chronicle into the mid-fourteenth century, offering concise but valuable notices on royal policy, foreign relations, and ecclesiastical affairs. Its annalistic structure makes it especially useful for establishing chronology and tracing the development of events year by year. Complementing it, Robert of Avesbury’s De gestis mirabilibus regis Edwardi tertii is a rich documentary chronicle preserving letters, treaties, and official records alongside narrative passages. It is an indispensable source for understanding Edward III’s claim to the French crown, the conduct of war, and the mechanisms of medieval diplomacy. Together, these works offer scholars, students, and enthusiasts a reliable and unembellished account of a transformative period in English and European history. Essential for anyone interested in medieval chronicles, the Hundred Years’ War, or the reign of Edward III.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 15th September 1819 Henry Cockayne-Cust was born to Henry Cockayne-Cust (age 38) and Anna Maria Needham (age 29). He married 1852 Sara Jane Cookson and had issue.
On 15th September 1821 Jane Delves Broughton was born to Henry Delves Broughton 8th Baronet (age 44) and Mary Pigott Lady Broughton (age 34). She married 7th October 1847 Charles Henry Mainwaring.
On 15th September 1824 Francis Leveson-Gower aka Egerton was born to Francis Leveson Gower aka Egerton 1st Earl Ellesmere (age 24) and Harriet Greville Countess Ellesmere (age 21). He married 26th September 1865 his second cousin once removed Louisa Caroline Cavendish, daughter of William Cavendish 7th Duke Devonshire and Blanche Georgiana Howard, and had issue.
On 15th September 1827 Charles Cunliffe Smith 3rd Baronet was born to Charles Joshua Smith 2nd Baronet (age 27).
On 15th September 1829 Cecilia Wyndham was born to George Thomas Wyndham of Cromer Hall Norfolk (age 24) and Maria Augusta Windham Countess Listowel (age 24). She married 1847 Alfred Paget, son of Henry William Paget 1st Marquess Anglesey and Charlotte Cadogan Marchioness Anglesey, and had issue.
On 15th September 1837 George Young 3rd Baronet was born to George Young 2nd Baronet (age 40) and Susan Praed Lady Young.
On 15th September 1841 Edith Villiers Countess Lytton was born to Edward Ernest Villiers (age 35) and Elizabeth Charlotte Liddell (age 34). She married 4th October 1864 Edward Robert Bulwer-Lytton 1st Earl, son of Edward George Bulwer-Lytton 1st Baron Lytton, and had issue.
On 15th September 1848 Frederick Hanbury-Tracy was born to Thomas Charles Hanbury-Tracy 2nd Baron Sudeley (age 47) and Emma Elizabeth Alicia Dawkins-Pennant Baroness Sudeley. He married 1870 Helena Caroline Winnington, daughter of Thomas Winnington 4th Baronet and Helen Domvile.
On 15th September 1851 Charles Beilby Stuart-Wortley 1st Baron Stuart was born to James Archibald Stuart-Wortley-Mackenzie (age 46) and Jane Lawley (age 30). He married (1) after July 1881 Alice Millais Baroness Stuart, daughter of John Everett Millais 1st Baronet and Euphemia "Effie" Gray Lady Millais (2) 16th August 1886 Beatrice Trollope and had issue.
On 15th September 1864 Sigismund Hohenzollern was born to Frederick III King Prussia (age 32) and Victoria Empress Germany Queen Consort Prussia (age 23). He a grandson of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom. He died aged one in 1866.
This is a translation of the 'Memoires of Jacques du Clercq', published in 1823 in two volumes, edited by Frederic, Baron de Reissenberg. In his introduction Reissenberg writes: 'Jacques du Clercq tells us that he was born in 1424, and that he was a licentiate in law and a counsellor to Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy, in the castellany of Douai, Lille, and Orchies. It appears that he established his residence at Arras. In 1446, he married the daughter of Baldwin de la Lacherie, a gentleman who lived in Lille. We read in the fifth book of his Memoirs that his father, also named Jacques du Clercq, had married a lady of the Le Camelin family, from Compiègne. His ancestors, always attached to the counts of Flanders, had constantly served them, whether in their councils or in their armies.' The Memoires cover a period of nineteen years beginning in in 1448, ending in in 1467. It appears that the author had intended to extend the Memoirs beyond that date; no doubt illness or death prevented him from carrying out this plan. As Reissenberg writes the 'merit of this work lies in the simplicity of its narrative, in its tone of good faith, and in a certain air of frankness which naturally wins the reader’s confidence.' Du Clercq ranges from events of national and international importance, including events of the Wars of the Roses in England, to simple, everyday local events such as marriages, robberies, murders, trials and deaths, including that of his own father in Book 5; one of his last entries.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 15th September 1870 Frances Louisa Spencer-Churchill Lady Gresley was born to George Charles Spencer-Churchill 8th Duke of Marlborough (age 26) and Albertha Frances Anne Hamilton Duchess of Marlborough (age 23). She married 6th June 1893 Robert Gresley 11th Baronet, son of Thomas Gresley 10th Baronet and Laura Anne Williams Lady Gresley, and had issue.
On 15th September 1872 Frances Garnet Wolseley 2nd Viscountess Wolseley was born to Garnet Wolseley 1st Viscount Wolseley (age 39) and Louisa Erskine Holmes Viscountess Wolseley (age 29).
On 15th September 1890 Agatha Christie née Miller was born to Frederick Alvah Miller (age 44).
On 15th September 1893 Hartley Glover Lady Paget was born. She married 22nd July 1939 Richard Arthur Surtees Paget 2nd Baronet, son of Richard Horner Paget 1st Baronet and Caroline Isabel Surtees.
On 15th September 1895 Marian Ileene Mabel Hastings was born to Warner Hastings 15th Earl Huntingdon (age 27) and Maud Margaret Wilson Countess Huntingdon (age 27).
On 15th September 1913 Thomas Percy Tuchet-Jesson was born to Thomas Touchet-Jesson (age 34). He married (1) before 1957 June Isabel Chaplin (2) 26th April 1962 Sarah Churchill Baroness Audley.
On 15th September 1913 John Richard Frederick FitzHerbert 8th Baronet was born to Henry Edward Fitzherbert (age 30) and Margaret Elinor à Court-Holmes (age 25). He married 30th August 1957 Kathleen Anne Rees Lady Fitzherbert.
On 15th September 1925 John Eden 1st Baron Eden of Winton was born to Timothy Calvert Eden 8th and 6th Baronet (age 32).
On 15th September 1929 John Julius Cooper 2nd Viscount Norwich was born to Alfred Duff Cooper 1st Viscount Norwich (age 39) and Diana Manners Viscountess Norwich (age 37). He married (1) before 1959 Anne Frances May Clifford (2) before 1st June 2018 Mary Makins, daughter of Roger Makins 1st Baron Sherfield and Alice Brooks Davis.
On 15th September 1954 Frederick William John Augustus Hervey 7th Marquess of Bristol was born to Victor Hervey 6th Marquess of Bristol (age 38) and Pauline Mary Bolton.
On 15th September 1984 Prince Harry Windsor Duke Sussex was born to King Charles III (age 35) and Diana Spencer Princess Wales (age 23). He a grandson of Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom.
On 15th September 1657 George Villiers 2nd Duke of Buckingham (age 29) and Mary Fairfax Duchess Buckingham (age 19) were married. She by marriage Duchess of Buckingham. He the son of George Villiers 1st Duke of Buckingham and Katherine Manners Duchess Buckingham. They were half fifth cousins.
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.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 15th September 1701 John Germain 1st Baronet (age 51) and Mary Mordaunt Duchess Norfolk (age 42) were married. She by marriage Lady Germain of Westminster. She the daughter of Henry Mordaunt 2nd Earl Peterborough and Penelope O'Brien Countess Peterborough (age 79).
On 15th September 1706 John Germain 1st Baronet (age 56) and Elizabeth Berkeley Lady Germain were married. She brought £6000 to the marriage. She the daughter of Charles Berkeley 2nd Earl Berkeley (age 57) and Elizabeth Noel Countess Berkeley (age 52).
On 15th September 1743 David Erskine 9th Earl Buchan (age 71) and Isabella Blackett Countess Buchan (age 52) were married. She by marriage Countess Buchan.
On 15th September 1791 George Spencer-Churchill 5th Duke of Marlborough (age 25) and Susan Stewart Duchess of Marlborough (age 24) were married. She the daughter of John Stewart 7th Earl Galloway (age 55) and Anne Dashwood Countess Galloway (age 48). He the son of George Spencer 4th Duke of Marlborough (age 52) and Caroline Russell Duchess of Marlborough (age 48).
On 15th September 1794 Thomas Anson 1st Viscount Anson (age 27) and Anne Margaret Coke Viscountess Anson (age 15) were married at St Withburga's Church, Holkham [Map]. She the daughter of Thomas Coke 1st Earl of Leicester (age 40) and Jane Dutton (age 40).
On 15th September 1904 Edward John Moreton Drax Plunkett 18th Baron Dunsany (age 26) and Beatrice Child-Villiers Baroness Dunsany (age 23) were married. She by marriage Baroness Dunsany. She the daughter of Victor Albert George Child-Villiers 7th Earl Jersey (age 59) and Margaret Elizabeth Leigh Countess Jersey (age 54).
On 15th September 1917 George Bridges Rodney 8th Baron Rodney (age 25) and Marjorie Lowther Baroness Rodney (age 22) were married. She by marriage Baroness Rodney of Rodney Stoke in Somerset. She the daughter of Lancelot Edward Lowther 6th Earl Lonsdale (age 50) and Gwendoline Sheffield (age 48).
On 15th September 1954 Peter Griffiths aka Abney-Hastings Earl Loudon (age 30) and Barbara Abney-Hastings 13th Countess of Loudoun (age 35) were married. She the daughter of Reginald Mowbray Chichester Huddleston (age 60) and Edith Maud Rawdon-Hastings 12th Countess Loudon (age 71).
On 15th September 1979 Richard Bridgeman 7th Earl of Bradford (age 31) and Joanne Elizabeth Miller Countess Bradford were married. He the son of Gerald Bridgeman 6th Earl of Bradford (age 67) and Mary Willoughby Montgomery Countess Bradford.
On 15th September 2000 William Duke Coleridge 5th Baron Coleridge (age 63) and Rosemary Frances Scoones Viscoutess Exmouth were married. She by marriage Baroness Coleridge of Ottery St Mary in Devon. She the former wife of Murray Beauclerk 14th Duke St Albans (age 61) and Paul Pellew 10th Viscount Exmouth (age 59).
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.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 15th September 1054 García III King Pamplona (age 42) died in Barcelona [Map]. His son Sancho succeeded IV King Pamplona.
On 15th September 1146 Alan "Black" Penthièvre 1st Earl Richmond (age 46) died at Brittany [Map]. His son Conan (age 8) succeeded 2nd Earl Richmond.
On 15th September 1231 Louis Wittelsbach I Duke Bavaria (age 57) was murdered. His son Otto (age 25) succeeded II Duke Bavaria. Agnes Welf Duchess Bavaria (age 30) by marriage Duchess Bavaria.
On 15th September 1343 Henry Ferrers 2nd Baron Ferrers of Groby (age 40) died. His son William (age 10) succeeded 3rd Baron Ferrers of Groby.
On 15th September 1375 John Mohun 2nd Baron Mohun of Dunster (age 55) died. Since he had no male issue the title Baron Mohun of Dunster went into abeyance between his three daughters. Elizabeth Mohun Countess of Salisbury had one child who died in 1397. Philippa Mohun Duchess York (age 8) didn't have issue. Maud Mohun Baroness Strange Knockin (age 18) had one son Richard Strange 3rd Baron Dunster 7th Baron Strange Knockin who succeeded as 3rd Baron Mohun of Dunster on the death of his aunt Philippa Mohun Duchess York.
On 15th September 1408 Edmund Holland 4th Earl Kent (age 24) was killed at Île de Bréhat. He was buried in Bourne Abbey, Lincolnshire [Map]. Earl Kent extinct. Baron Holand, Baron Wake of Liddell abeyant. See Walsingham.
On 15th September 1415 Bishop Richard Courtenay died.
On 15th September 1500 Cardinal John Morton (age 80) died at Knole House, Sevenoaks.
On 15th September 1574 Jane Cheney Countess Southampton (age 65) died.
On 15th September 1574 Margaret Valois Duchess Berry and Savoy (age 51) died.
On 15th September 1643 Richard Boyle 1st Earl Cork (age 76) died. His son Richard (age 30) succeeded 2nd Earl Cork.
On 15th September 1665 John Paulett 2nd Baron Paulett (age 50) died. His son John (age 24) succeeded 3rd Baron Poulett. Essex Popham Baroness Poulett (age 23) by marriage Baroness Poulett.
On 15th September 1691 Adam Loftus 1st Viscount Lisburne (age 44) died. Viscount Lisburne and Baron Rathfarnham extinct.
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.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 15th September 1700 John Aubrey 2nd Baronet (age 50) died. His son John (age 20) succeeded 3rd Baronet Aubrey of Llantrithyd in Glamorganshire.
On 15th September 1707 Christopher Wandesford 1st Viscount Castlecomer (age 51) died. His son Christopher (age 23) succeeded 2nd Viscount Castlecomer, 2nd Baron Wandesford, 3rd Baronet Wandesford of Kirklington.
On 15th September 1712 Sidney Godolphin 1st Earl Godolphin (age 67) died. His son Francis (age 34) succeeded 2nd Earl Godolphin, 2nd Viscount Rialton, 2nd Baron Godolphin of Rialton in Cornwall. Henrietta Churchill 2nd Duchess of Marlborough (age 31) by marriage Countess Godolphin.
On 15th September 1748 William Corbet 5th Baronet (age 46) died without issue. His brother Henry (age 45) succeeded 6th Baronet Corbet of Stoke on Tern in Shropshire.
On 15th September 1759 Edmund Allen 8th Baronet died unmarried. Baronet Allen of Hatfield in Essex extinct.
On 15th September 1781 Egerton Leigh 1st Baronet (age 47) died. His son Egerton (age 19) succeeded 2nd Baronet Leigh of South Carolina in America.
On 15th September 1797 Elizabeth Hamilton Baroness Dormer died.
On 15th September 1853 John Cust 1st Earl Brownlow (age 74) died. His grandson John (age 11) succeeded 2nd Earl Brownlow, 2nd Viscount Alford, 3rd Baron Brownlow of Belton in Lincolnshire, 6th Baronet Cust of Stamford in Lincolnshire, and inherited Belton House [Map].
On 15th September 1864 Lavinia Bingham Viscountess Hardinge (age 28) died.
On 15th September 1864 George Cadogan 3rd Earl Cadogan (age 81) died. His son Henry (age 52) succeeded 4th Earl Cadogan, 4th Viscount Chelsea, 6th Baron Cadogan. Mary Sarah Wellesley Countess Cadogan (age 55) by marriage Countess Cadogan.
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.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 15th September 1866 John Pollard Willoughby 4th Baronet (age 67) died. His son John (age 7) succeeded 5th Baronet Willoughby of Baldon House in Oxfordshire.
On 15th September 1891 John Steell (age 86) died.
On 15th September 1894 Elizabeth Jane Anson Baroness Waterpark (age 78) died. Memorial at St Cuthbert's Church, Doveridge [Map].
Elizabeth Jane Anson Baroness Waterpark: On 26th February 1816 she was born to Thomas Anson 1st Viscount Anson and Anne Margaret Coke Viscountess Anson. In 1837 Henry Cavendish 3rd Baron Waterpark and she were married. She by marriage Baroness Waterpark. The difference in their ages was 22 years.
On 15th September 1897 Helena Shaw Lefevre Lady St John-Mildmay (age 74) died.
On 15th September 1898 William Ulick O'Connor Cuffe 4th Earl of Desart (age 53) died. His brother Hamilton (age 50) succeeded 5th Earl Desart.
On 15th September 1909 Edward Marjoribanks 2nd Baron Tweedmouth (age 60) died. His son Dudley (age 35) succeeded 2nd Baron Tweedmouth of Edington in Berwickshire.
On 15th September 1916 Charles William Reginald Duncombe 2nd Earl Feversham (age 37) was killed in action at Flers-Courcelette, Somme during the Battle of Flers-Courcelette.
Note. Charles Duncombe 3rd Earl Feversham (age 9) succeeded 3rd Earl Feversham, 5th Baron Feversham of Duncombe Park in Yorkshire.
On 15th September 1927 Victoria Elizabeth Ashley-Cooper Baroness Templemore (age 89) died.
On 15th September 1932 William Craven 5th Earl Craven (age 35) died of peritonitis at Pau, France. His son William (age 15) succeeded 6th Earl Craven in Yorkshire, 6th Viscount Uffington, 12th Baron Craven of Hamstead Marshall in Berkshire.
On 15th September 1943 Norton Knatchbull 6th Baron Brabourne (age 21) was executed by the SS in Bronzolo after having attempted to escape whilst on his way to captivity. He was buried in Padua War Cemetery. His brother John (age 18) succeeded 7th Baron Bradbourne, 16th Baronet Knatchbull of Mersham Hatch in Kent.
On 15th September 1952 Very Reverend Frederic Athelwold Iremonger (age 74) died. Memorial in Winchester Cathedral [Map] sculpted by Bertram Mackennal.
Very Reverend Frederic Athelwold Iremonger: On 8th July 1878 he was born to William Henry Iremonger and Mary Sophia Iremonger.
On 15th September 1969 Joan Grimston Lady Neumann 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 15th September 1972 Pamela Kay-Shuttleworth Lady Frankland (age 56) died.
On 15th September 1972 Archbishop Geoffrey Fisher (age 85) died.
On 15th September 1973 Gustaf Adolph VI King Sweden (age 90) died. His grandson Carl (age 27) succeeded XVI King Sweden. Silvia Sommerlath Queen Consort Sweden by marriage Queen Consort Sweden.
On 15th September 1982 Charles Henry Robert Dillon 21st Viscount Dillon (age 37) died. His son Henry (age 9) succeeded 22nd Viscount Dillon of Costello Gallen in Mayo.
On 15th September 1995 John Somers Cocks 8th Baron Somers (age 88) died. His second cousin once removed Philip (age 47) succeeded 9th Baron Somers.