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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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18 Mar is in March.
978 Murder of King Edward the Martyr
1190 Massacre of the Jews at Bury St Edmunds
1445 Richard of York meets Margaret of Anjou
On 18th March 978 King Edward I of England (age 16) was murdered at Corfe Castle, Dorset [Map] when visiting his younger half-brother Æthelred (age 12) and his [Æthelred's] mother Aelfthryth (age 33). He was buried in Wareham, Dorset [Map] without ceremony. His half brother Æthelred succeeded II King of England.
Anglo-Saxon Chronicle. 978. This year was King Edward (age 16) slain, at eventide, at Corfe-gate [Map], on the fifteenth day before the calends of April. And he was buried at Wareham, Dorset [Map] without any royal honour. No worse deed than this was ever done by the English nation since they first sought the land of Britain. Men murdered him but God has magnified him. He was in life an earthly king-he is now after death a heavenly saint. Him would not his earthly relatives avenge-but his heavenly father has avenged him amply. The earthly homicides would wipe out his memory from the earth-but the avenger above has spread his memory abroad in heaven and in earth. Those, Who would not before bow to his living body, now bow on their knees to His dead bones. Now we may conclude, that the wisdom of men, and their meditations, and their counsels, are as nought against the appointment of God. In this same year succeeded Ethelred Etheling (age 12), his brother, to the government; and he was afterwards very readily, and with great joy to the counsellors of England, consecrated king at Kingston [Map]. In the same year also died Alfwold, who was Bishop of Dorsetshire, and whose body lieth in the minster at Sherborn [Map].
Chronicon ex Chronicis by Florence and John of Worcester. 18th March 978. Edward, king of England (age 16), was foully murdered at Corvesireate [Map], at the instigations of his step-mother, queen Elfthritha (age 33), and was buried at Wareham [Map] without royal pomp.
Chronicle of William of Malmesbury Book 2 Chapter 9. 18th March 978. Meanwhile king Edward (age 16) conducted himself with becoming affection to his infant brother (age 12) and his step-mother (age 33); he retained only the name of king, and gave them the power; following the footsteps of his father's piety, and giving both his attention and his heart to good council. The woman, however, with that hatred which a step-mother only can entertain, began to meditate a subtle stratagem, in order that not even the title of king might be wanting to her child, and to lay a treacherous snare for her son-in-law [step-son], which she accomplished in the following manner. He was returning home, tired with the chase and gasping with thirst from the exercise, while his companions were following the dogs in different directions as it happened, when hearing that they dwelt in a neighbouring mansion, the youth proceeded thither at full speed, unattended and unsuspecting, as he judged of others by his own feelings. On his arrival, alluring him to her with female blandishment, she made him lean forward, and after saluting him while he was eagerly drinking from the cup which had been presented, the dagger of an attendant pierced him through. Dreadfully wounded, with all his remaining strength he clapped spurs to his horse in order to join his companions; when one foot slipping, he was dragged by the other through the trackless paths and recesses of the wood, while the streaming blood gave evidence of his death to his followers. Moreover, they then commanded him to be ingloriously interred at Wareham; envying him even holy ground when dead, as they had envied him his royal dignity while living. They now publicly manifested their extreme joy as if they had buried his memory with his body; but God's all-seeing eye was there, who ennobled the innocent victim by the glory of miracles. So much is human outweighed by heavenly judgment. For there lights were shown from above; there the lame walked; there the dumb resumed his fticulty of speech; there every malady gave way to health. The fame of this pervading all England, proclaimed the merits of the martyr. The murderess excited by it, attempted a progress thither; and was already urging forward the horse slie had mounted, when she perceived the manifest anger of God; for the same creature which she had heretofore constantly ridden, and which was used to outstrip the very wind in speed, now by command of God, stood motionless. The attendants, both with whips and clamours, urged him forward that he might carry his noble mistress with his usual readiness; but their labour was in vain. They changed the horse; and the same circumstance recurred. Her obdurate heart, though late, perceived the meaning of the miracle; wherefore, what she was not herself permitted to do, she suffered to be performed by another: for that Elferius, whom I before blamed for destroying the monasteries, repenting of his rashness, and being deeply distressed in mind, took up the sacred corpse from its unworthy burial-place, and paid it just and distinguished honours at Shaftesbury [Map]. He did not escape unpunished, however, for, within a year afterwards, he was eaten of the vermin which we call lice. Moreover, since a mind unregulated is a torment to itself, and a restless spirit endures its own peculiar punishment in this life, Elfthrida declining from her regal pride, became extremely penitent; so that at Werewell [Map], for many years, she clothed her pampered body in hair-cloth, slept at night upon the ground without a pillow; and mortified her flesh with every kind of penance. She was a beautiful woman; singularly faithful to her husband; but deserving punishment from the commission of so great a crime. It is believed and commonly reported, that from her violence to Edward, the country for a long time after groaned under the yoke of barbarian servitude.
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On 18th March 1076 Ermengarde Blanche Ingelger Duchess Burgundy (age 58) died.
Chronicle of William of Malmesbury Book 4 Chapter 2. [18th March 1103] His [Robert Curthose's (age 52)] wife [Sybilla Conversano Duchess Normandy], the daughter of William de Conversano [Geoffrey Count of Conversano], whom he had married in Apulia on his return, and whose surpassing beauty, all endeavours to describe are vain, died after a few years, by disease458; misled, as it is said, by the advice of the midwife, who had ordered her breasts, when in childbed, to be bound with a tight bandage, on account of the copious flow of her milk. A great consolation, however, in this extreme distress, was a son by his consort; who, called William [William Clito Count Flanders] by presage of his grandfather's [King William "Conqueror" I of England] name, gave hope of noble talents hereafter.
Note 458. "Sibilla, duchess of Normandy, died by poison, according to Ordericus Vitalis, and the Continuator of William of Jumièges. Malmesbury's account does not appear to be supported by any contemporary testimony."—Hardy.
Note 459. "Normandy was only mortgaged for 10,000 marks, about the 100th part of its present value."—Hardy.
On 18th March 1103 Sybilla Conversano Duchess Normandy 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.
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The Ecclesiastical History of England and Normandy by Orderic Vitalis. [18th March 1103] Not long afterwards the duchess Sibylla took to her bed infected by poison, and died in the season of Lent, to general sorrow.1. William, archbishop of Rouen, celebrated her obsequies with the clergy and people, respectfully interring her in the church of St. Mary [Map], mother of God. Her grave in the nave of the church is covered with a polished slab of white marble, on which the following epitaph may be distinctly seen. |
Not birth, nor beauty, rank, or power,
Can lengthen this life's fleeting hour;
Ev'n the illustrious SIBYLLE must,
Laid in this tomb, return to dust.
Apulia mourns her daughter's fate,
And Normandy is desolate;
The duchess gone, whose conduct pure,
And all that could her hopes secure
The wisdom to promote her weal
And liberal hand her wounds to heal
She lost, when in the Golden Fleece
The bright sun shone: God give her peace.
Note 1. This duchess had, according to the continuator of Jumieges, more intelligence and 'capacity for business than her husband, who often entrusted her with the administration of affairs during his absence. Sibylla paid dearly during her short residence in Normandy for the mistake she made in quitting the delicious climate and advanced civilization of Italy to attach herself to a prince who possessed neither talent nor morals.
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On 18th March 1190 at Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk [Map] fifty-seven of the Jewish population were murdered.
On 18th March 1395 John Holland 2nd Duke Exeter was born to John Holland 1st Duke Exeter (age 43) and Elizabeth Lancaster Duchess Exeter (age 32) at Dartington, Devon. He a great grandson of King Edward III of England. He married (1) 6th March 1427 his second cousin Anne Stafford Duchess Exeter, daughter of Edmund Stafford 5th Earl Stafford and Anne of Gloucester Plantagenet Countess Eu and Stafford, and had issue (2) 20th January 1433 his half fifth cousin Beatrice Aviz Duchess Exeter (3) after 25th October 1439 his half third cousin once removed Anne Montagu Duchess Exeter, daughter of John Montagu 3rd Earl Salisbury and Maud Francis Countess of Salisbury.
On 18th March 1445 Richard Plantagenet 3rd Duke of York (age 33) met Margaret of Anjou (age 14) at Pontoise [Map] on his mission to bring her back to England for her marriage to King Henry VI of England and II of France (age 23).
Patent Rolls. 18th March 1461. Westminster Palace [Map]. Grant, during the King's pleasure, to the King's kinsman Henry, Viscount Bourchier (age 57), was appointed the office of treasurer of the Exchequer in the same manner as Walter Hungerford, knight, late treasurer.
On 18th March 1476 Bishop Oliver King (age 44) became the king's 'first and principal Secretary' for the French tongue for life.
Holinshed's Chronicle [1525-1582]. 11th March 1478. About this season, through great mishap, the sparke of priuie malice was newlie kindled betwixt the king and his brother the duke of Clarence, insomuch that where one of the dukes seruants was suddenlie accused (I can not saie whether of truth, or vntrulie suspected by the dukes enimies) of poisoning, sorcerie or inchantment, and thereof condemned, and put to execution for the same; the duke which might not suffer the wrongfull condemnation of his man (as he in his conscience iudged) nor yet forbeare but to murmur and reproue the dooing thereof, mooued the king with his dailie exclamation to take such displeasure with him, that finallie the duke was cast into the Tower, and therewith adiudged for a traitor, and priuilie drowned in a butt of malmesie, the eleuenth of March1, in the beginning of the seuententh yeare of the kings reigne.
Note 1. A number of other sources state 18th March 1478.
On 18th March 1496 Mary Tudor Queen Consort France was born to King Henry VII of England and Ireland (age 39) and Elizabeth York Queen Consort England (age 30). She married (1) 9th October 1514 her second cousin twice removed Louis XII King France, son of Charles Valois Duke Orléans and Mary La Marck Duchess Orléans (2) May 1515 her fifth cousin Charles Brandon 1st Duke of Suffolk and had issue.
On 18th March 1508 Albert Wittelsbach IV Duke Bavaria (age 60) died. His son William (age 14) succeeded IV Duke Bavaria.
Letters and Papers. 18th March 1536. Vienna Archives. 495. Chapuys (age 46) to Granvelle.
Knows not what to add to what he has written to the Emperor, except that he has been informed that of late the King said triumphantly at a full table how the Pope, fearing the Emperor's approach to Rome, had furnished the castle of St. Angelo to withdraw into, and was raising foot soldiers for the same reason. He also said that the marquis of Guasto had killed the marquis of Villa Franca, which was a very awkward thing for the Emperor. These are all French inventions, which this King has no great difficulty in believing. You will see by the letters I write to his Majesty, the gentle device of this King to extract money on pretext of charity by means of the offerings. If it succeed, as no doubt it will, he will gain an immense sum of money, for he will impose a tax according to his will which everyone will have to offer, and not engage to do so for once but for all the other innumerable inventions that this King daily puts forward in order to get money, at which the people is terribly grieved and almost desperate, but no man dare complain. The new amours of this King with the young lady [Jane Seymour (age 27)] of whom I have before written still go on, to the intense rage of the concubine (age 35); and the King fifteen days ago put into his chamber1 the young lady's brother (age 36).
London, 18 March 1535 Fr., from a modern copy, pp. 2.
Note 1. See Letter of 1st of April, 1536: "the King has caused Cromwell to remove from a chamber to which the King can go by certain galleries without being perceived".
On 10th March 1538 Philip Hoby (age 33) arrived in Brussels [Map] with Hans Holbein The Younger (age 41) having been sent by Thomas Cromwell 1st Earl Essex (age 53) to procure a portrait of Christina Oldenburg Duchess Lorraine (age 16). King Henry VIII of England and Ireland (age 46) received the portrait on 18th March 1538 and was reported to have been pleased.
Chronicle of Abbot Ralph of Coggeshall
The Chronicle of Abbot Ralph of Coggeshall (Chronicon Anglicanum) is an indispensable medieval history that brings to life centuries of English and European affairs through the eyes of a learned Cistercian monk. Ralph of Coggeshall, abbot of the Abbey of Coggeshall in Essex in the early 13th century, continued and expanded his community’s chronicle, documenting events from the Norman Conquest of 1066 into the tumultuous reign of King Henry III. Blending eyewitness testimony, careful compilation, and the monastic commitment to record-keeping, this chronicle offers a rare narrative of political intrigue, royal power struggles, and social upheaval in England and beyond. Ralph’s work captures the reigns of pivotal figures such as Richard I and King John, providing invaluable insights into their characters, decisions, and the forces that shaped medieval rule. More than a simple annal, Chronicon Anglicanum conveys the texture of medieval life and governance, making it a rich source for scholars and readers fascinated by English history, monastic authorship, and the shaping of the medieval world.
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Diary of Edward VI. 18th March 1551. The lady Mary (age 35) my sister came to me to Whestmuster1, wheare after salutacions she was called with my counsel into a chambre, where was declared how long I had suffered her masse against my will2 in hope of her reconciliation, and how now, being no hope, wich I perceived by her lettres, except I saw some short amendement, I could not beare it. She answerid that her soul was God('s), and her faith she wold not chaung, nor dissemble hir opinion with contrary doinges. It was said I constrained not her faith, but willed her (not as a king to rule, but3) as a subject to obey. And that her esaumple might breed to much inconvenience.
Note 1. "The XV. day of March the lady Mary rode through London unto Saynt John's [at Clerkenwell], her place, with fifty knights and gentlemen in velvet coats and chains of gold afore her, and after her fourscore gentlemen and ladies, every one having a pair of beads of black. She rode through Chepeside and through Smithfield. The xvij. day [not 18 as in the King's Journal] my lady Mary rode from Saynt John's through Fleet-street unto the court at Westminster, with many noblemen, of lords and knights and gentlemen, and ladies and gentlewomen; and at the court-gate she alighted, and was received by mr. Wingtield, the comptroller of the King's house, and many lords and knights, and so she was brought through the hall into the chamber of presence, and so she tarried there, and had a goodly banquet, two hom-s. And soon after she took her horse and rode unto Saynt John's; and there she lay all night; and on the morrow her Grace rode to New hall in Essex; and there bided in grace, with honour, thanked be God and the King her brother." — Machyn's Diary, p. 5.
Note 2. These words are struck through with the King's pen.
Note 3. These words are inserted above the line.
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Wriothesley's Chronicle [1508-1562]. 18th March 1554. The xviii of Marche, beinge Palme Sunday, the Ladie Elizabeth (age 20) was had to the Tower from Westminster by water privelie, after the Queene (age 38) had gone a procession, which was about x of the clock in the forenoone.
The same Palme Sunday the old service after the use of Sarum in Latyn was begone agayne and kept in Paules and other parishes, within the Cittie of London, with allso bearinge of Palmes, and creepinge to the Crosse on Good Fridaye, with the Sepulcher lights and the Resurrection on Easter daye.
Allso the Scriptures written on Rood-lofts and about the churches in London, with the armes of England, was washed out againste the feast of Easter in moste parte of all the parishe churches of the diocesse of London. And Dr. Feknama was made Deane of Paules, and Dr. May putt owt, and the sacrament of the aulter hanged or sett on the aulter in everie parishe churche.
Note a. John Feckenham.
Chronicle of Greyfriars. 18th March 1554. And the xviij. day of the same monyth was commyttyd also unto the tower lady Elzabeth (age 20) that was the quenes (age 38) syster, and that was Palme sonday.
Henry Machyn's Diary. 18th March 1554. The xviij day of Marche was kared to the Towre of London [Map] my lade Elsabeth('s) (age 20) grace, the quen('s) (age 38) syster, a-for none.
On 18th March 1555 Francis Valois Duke Anjou was born to King Henry II of France (age 35) and Catherine Medici Queen Consort France (age 35).
On 18th March 1556 Henry Peckham (age 30) was imprisoned at the Tower of London [Map].
Henry Machyn's Diary. 18th March 1557. The xviij day of Marche was the monyth myn of the yerle of Sussex (deceased), and the hersse bornyng and standyng tyll durge, and masse done on the morow after yt was taken downe; and master Garter was ther to se ys standard and ys elmet, targat, cott, and banars sett up over hym, with alle thyng longyng therto.... man shuld where no ...
On 18th March 1558 Bishop Richard Howand (age 17) was admitted pensioner at Christ's College, Cambridge University [Map], but he migrated to St John's College, Cambridge University [Map], where he graduated B.A. in 1561.
On 18th March 1601 Charles Danvers (age 33) and Christopher Blount (age 36) was beheaded for their part in the 1601 Essex Rebellion.
Annales of England by John Stow. The 18 of March [1601], sir Charles Dawvers (age 33), and sir Christopher Blunt (age 36) knights, were upon a new Scaffold set up for that purpose, on the Tower hill, beheaded.
On 18th March 1609 Frederick III King of Denmark was born to Christian IV King of Denmark (age 31). He married 1643 his sixth cousin Sophie Amalie Hanover Queen Consort Denmark, daughter of George Hanover Duke Brunswick-Lüneburg and Anne Eleonore Hesse Darmstadt Duchess Brunswick-Lüneburg, and had issue.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th March 1661. Home and called at my Lady Batten's, and supped there, and so home. This day an ambassador from Florence was brought into the town in state. Good hopes given me to-day that Mrs. Davis is going away from us, her husband going shortly to Ireland. Yesterday it was said was to be the day that the Princess Henrietta (age 16) was to marry the Duke d'Anjou' in France. This day I found in the newes-booke that Roger Pepys (age 43) is chosen at Cambridge for the town, the first place that we hear of to have made their choice yet. To bed with my head and mind full of business, which do a little put me out of order, and I do find myself to become more and more thoughtful about getting of money than ever heretofore.
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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Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th March 1667. A little before noon comes my old good friend, Mr. Richard Cumberland (age 35), to see me, being newly come to town, whom I have not seen almost, if not quite, these seven years. In his plain country-parson's dress. I could not spend much time with him, but prayed him come with his brother, who was with him, to dine with me to-day; which he did do and I had a great deal of his good company; and a most excellent person he is as any I know, and one that I am sorry should be lost and buried in a little country town, and would be glad to remove him thence; and the truth is, if he would accept of my sister's fortune, I should give £100 more with him than to a man able to settle her four times as much as, I fear, he is able to do; and I will think of it, and a way how to move it, he having in discourse said he was not against marrying, nor yet engaged. I shewed him my closet, and did give him some very good musique, Mr. Caesar being here upon his lute.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th March 1667. They gone I to the office, where all the afternoon very busy, and among other things comes Captain Jenifer to me, a great servant of my Lord Sandwich's (age 41), who tells me that he do hear for certain, though I do not yet believe it, that Sir W. Coventry (age 39) is to be Secretary of State, and my Lord Arlington (age 49) Lord Treasurer. I only wish that the latter were as fit for the latter office as the former is for the former, and more fit than my Lord Arlington. Anon Sir W. Pen (age 45) come and talked with me in the garden, and tells me that for certain the Duke of Richmond (age 28) is to marry Mrs. Stewart (age 19), he having this day brought in an account of his estate and debts to the King (age 36) on that account.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th March 1669. Thence to visit Ned Pickering (age 51) and his lady (age 36), and Creed and his wife, but the former abroad, and the latter out of town, gone to my Lady Pickering's (age 43) in Northamptonshire, upon occasion of the late death of their brother, Oliver Pickering, a youth, that is dead of the smallpox. So my wife and I to Dancre's (age 44) to see the pictures; and thence to Hyde Park, the first time we were there this year, or ever in our own coach, where with mighty pride rode up and down, and many coaches there; and I thought our horses and coach as pretty as any there, and observed so to be by others. Here staid till night, and so home, and to the office, where busy late, and so home to supper and to bed, with great content, but much business in my head of the office, which troubles me.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th March 1669. Up, and to see Sir W. Coventry (age 41), and walked with him a good while in the Stone Walk: and brave discourse about my Chancellor (age 60), and his ill managements and mistakes, and several things of the Navy, and thence to the office, where we sat all the morning, and so home to dinner, where my wife mighty finely dressed, by a maid that she hath taken, and is to come to her when Jane goes; and the same she the other day told me of, to be so handsome. I therefore longed to see her, but did not till after dinner, that my wife and I going by coach, she went with us to Holborne, where we set her down. She is a mighty proper maid, and pretty comely, but so so; but hath a most pleasing tone of voice, and speaks handsomely, but hath most great hands, and I believe ugly; but very well dressed, and good clothes, and the maid I believe will please me well enough.
On 18th March 1686 John Sheffield 1st Duke of Buckingham and Normanby (age 37) and Ursula Stawell Countess Mulgrave and Conway were married at the chapel of Littlecote House. She by marriage Countess Mulgrave. He the son of Edmund Sheffield 2nd Earl Mulgrave and Elizabeth Cranfield Countess Mulgrave (age 78).
On 18th March 1696 Robert Charnock (age 33) was hanged for his involvement in the 1696 Plot to Assassinate King William III.
John Evelyn's Diary. 18th March 1701. I let Sayes Court, Deptford [Map] to Lord Carmarthen (age 42), son to the Duke of Leeds (age 69). 28th. I went to the funeral of my sister Draper, who was buried at Edmonton in great state. Dr. Davenant displeased the clergy now met in Convocation by a passage in his book, p. 40.
Minutes of the Society of Antiquaries. 18th March 1719. Mr Vertue according to order having been at Kensington to view the copy of Holbein's picture of Henry the Eighth on the wall at Whitehall reports that the picture is about 4 foot long 3 foot broad wherein are the effigies of the King and his Queen, Henry VII and his Queen but the faces are so small that if it be reduced to a size fit for engraving he thinks it will not answer the intentions of the Society.
On 18th March 1735 John Montagu 1st Baron Montagu was born to George Brudenell aka Montagu 1st Duke Montagu (age 22) and Mary Montagu Duchess of Montagu (age 24).
Abbot John Whethamstede’s Chronicle of the Abbey of St Albans
Abbot John Whethamstede's Register aka Chronicle of his second term at the Abbey of St Albans, 1451-1461, is a remarkable text that describes his first-hand experience of the beginning of the Wars of the Roses including the First and Second Battles of St Albans, 1455 and 1461, respectively, their cause, and their consequences, not least on the Abbey itself. His text also includes Loveday, Blore Heath, Northampton, the Act of Accord, Wakefield, and Towton, and ends with the Coronation of King Edward IV. In addition to the events of the Wars of the Roses, Abbot John, or his scribes who wrote the Chronicle, include details in the life of the Abbey such as charters, letters, land exchanges, visits by legates, and disputes, which provide a rich insight into the day-to-day life of the Abbey, and the challenges faced by its Abbot.
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On 18th March 1751 Robert Hay-Drummond 10th Earl Kinnoul was born to Archbishop Robert Hay-Drummond (age 39) and Henrietta d'Auriol (age 24). He married 3rd June 1781 his half third cousin Sarah Harley Countess Kinnoul and had issue.
On 18th March 1792 Dorothy Boultby (age 52) died. Memorial at the Cathedral Church St Nicholas, Newcastle upon Tyne [Map]. She was buried at St John the Baptist's Church, Newcastle upon Tyne [Map].
Dorothy Boultby: Around 1740 she was born to Adam Boultyby of Whitby. Before 18th March 1792 Henry Askew of Redheugh and she were married.
On 18th March 1809 Major-General Robert Wrey (age 88) was buried at St Peter's Church, Tawstock [Map]. Inscription: In Memory of ROBERT WREY Esqre Major General in the Portuguese Service, and Governor of CHAVES, departed this Life 18th Day of March 1809, aged 88 Years, Sincerely regretted by numerous Friends, and most by those who knew him best. Also of ANNE (age 84) his Wife, who was the Daughter of Dean MEAD of CORK, She died the 3rd Day of Novr 1813, at the advanced Age of Eighty Years, much beloved and respected.
Major-General Robert Wrey: On or before 13th March 1721 he was born to Bourchier Wrey 5th Baronet and Diana Rolle. He was baptised at St Peter's Church, Tawstock [Map] on 13th March 1730. Coefficient of inbreeding 6.37%. In 1750 Major-General Robert Wrey and Anne Meade were married. Before 18th March 1809 Major-General Robert Wrey died. This date may be wrong since it is the day of his burial?
Anne Meade: Around 1725 she was born to William Meade. On 3rd November 1813 she died.
On 18th March 1813 William Calder Marshall was born to William Marshall and Annie Calder, probably at Gilmour Place, Edinburgh [Map]. His father was a Goldsmith who had a shop at 1 South Bridge, Edinburgh [Map]. He attended the Edinburgh Royal High School and Edinburgh University before enrolling at the Edinburgh Trustees Academy in 1830. He married (1) 14th February 1842 Marianne Lawrie (2) 10th June 1845 Margaret Calder and had issue.
On 18th March 1843 William Montagu 5th Duke Manchester (age 71) died. His son George (age 43) succeeded 6th Duke Manchester, 9th Earl Manchester, 9th Viscount Mandeville, 9th Baron Montagu of Kimbolton. Millicent Sparrow Duchess Manchester (age 45) by marriage Duchess Manchester.
On 18th March 1848 Princess Louise Caroline Alberta Windsor Duchess Argyll was born to Prince Albert Saxe Coburg Gotha (age 28) and Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom (age 28). Coefficient of inbreeding 7.25%. She married 21st May 1871 John Campbell 9th Duke Argyll, son of George Douglas Campbell 8th Duke Argyll and Elizabeth Georgiana Leveson-Gower Duchess Argyll.
After 18th March 1853. St Peter and St Paul's Church, Rock [Map]. Memorial slab of Henry Lingen and his family.
On 18th March 1876 Richard Cavendish (age 81) died. Memorial window at St Cuthbert's Church, Doveridge [Map].
Richard Cavendish: On 23rd December 1794 he was born to Richard Cavendish 2nd Baron Waterpark and Juliana Cooper Baroness Waterpark.
On 18th March 1883 Violet Catherine Beckett-Denison (age 22) died. She was buried at St Andrew's Church, Radbourne [Map] where she has a window inher memory.
Violet Catherine Beckett-Denison: On 25th July 1860 she was born to William Beckett-Denison and Helen Duncombe. On 7th March 1882 Reginald Walkeline Chandos-Pole and she were married.
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.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 18th March 1895 Charlotte Anne Thynne Duchess Buccleuch Duchess Queensbury (age 83) died.
On 18th March 1900 General William Lockhart (age 58) died of malaria. His funeral occurred the following day and the service was taken by James Welldon the Bishop of Calcutta, and former headmaster of Harrow School. Lockhart's good friend and Viceroy Lord Curzon (age 41) attended.
On 18th March 1913 George I King Greece (age 67) died. His son Constantine (age 44) succeeded I King Greece. Sophia Hohenzollern Queen Consort Greece (age 42) by marriage Queen Consort Greece.
On 18th March 1914 Ernest Augustus Hanover was born to Ernest Augustus Hanover Duke Brunswick (age 26) and Viktoria Luise Hohenzollern Duchess Brunswick (age 21). He a great x 2 grandson of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom. He married (1) 1951 Ortrud Schleswig Holstein Sonderburg Glücksburg (2) 1981 Monika Solms Laubach.
On 18th March 1918 Catherine Sarah Cecil Baroness Barnard (age 56) died at Raby Castle, County Durham [Map]. She has a memorial at St Mary's Church, Staindrop [Map].
Catherine Sarah Cecil Baroness Barnard: On 8th April 1861 she was born to William Alleyne Cecil 3rd Marquess Exeter and and Georgina Sophia Pakenham Marchioness Exeter. On 28th June 1881 Henry de Vere Vane 9th Baron Barnard and she were married at St Thomas Church Marylebone. She the daughter of William Alleyne Cecil 3rd Marquess Exeter.
On 18th March 1948 Brigadier-General Claude Berners Westmacott (deceased) was buried with full military honours at Church of St John Wall, Staffordshire [Map]. The Colonel of the Regiment, Brigadier B. C. S. Clarke, D.S.O., who was his Adjutant 1912-1914, together with Lieut.-Colonel L. G. H. Bryant, Commanding at Norton, represented the Regiment at the funeral. A bugler of the Regiment sounded the "Last Post" and "Reveille," and a beautiful wreath was sent by the Regiment.
On 18th March 1958 Thomas William Anson (age 45) died. He was buried at St Stephen's Church, Great Heywood [Map].
Thomas William Anson: In 1913 he was born to Thomas Edward Anson 4th Earl Lichfield and Evelyn Maud Keppel Countess Lichfield. Before 25th April 1939 Thomas William Anson and Anne Ferelith Bowes-Lyon were married at St Margaret's Church, Westminster [Map]. The wedding was attended by the King and Queen, Princesses Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom and Princess Margaret - see Pathe. He the son of Thomas Edward Anson 4th Earl Lichfield and Evelyn Maud Keppel Countess Lichfield. In 25th April 1939 Thomas William Anson and Anne Ferelith Bowes-Lyon were divorced.
After 18th March 1963. All Saints Church, Sudbury [Map]. Monument to Francis William Lawrance Venables-Vernon 9th Baron Vernon (deceased) and his wife Violet Miriam Nightingale Clay Baroness Vernon (age 68).
Francis William Lawrance Venables-Vernon 9th Baron Vernon: In 1889 he was born to George William Henry Venables-Vernon 7th Baron Vernon and Frances Margaret Lawrance Baroness Vernon. On 9th February 1915 Francis William Lawrance Venables-Vernon 9th Baron Vernon and Violet Miriam Nightingale Clay Baroness Vernon were married. On 11th November 1916 George Francis Augustus Venables-Vernon 8th Baron Vernon died at Malta. His brother Francis succeeded 9th Baron Vernon of Kinderton in Cheshire. Violet Miriam Nightingale Clay Baroness Vernon by marriage Baroness Vernon of Kinderton in Cheshire. On 18th March 1963 Francis William Lawrance Venables-Vernon 9th Baron Vernon died. His son John succeeded 10th Baron Vernon of Kinderton in Cheshire.
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 18th March 1395 John Holland 2nd Duke Exeter was born to John Holland 1st Duke Exeter (age 43) and Elizabeth Lancaster Duchess Exeter (age 32) at Dartington, Devon. He a great grandson of King Edward III of England. He married (1) 6th March 1427 his second cousin Anne Stafford Duchess Exeter, daughter of Edmund Stafford 5th Earl Stafford and Anne of Gloucester Plantagenet Countess Eu and Stafford, and had issue (2) 20th January 1433 his half fifth cousin Beatrice Aviz Duchess Exeter (3) after 25th October 1439 his half third cousin once removed Anne Montagu Duchess Exeter, daughter of John Montagu 3rd Earl Salisbury and Maud Francis Countess of Salisbury.
On 18th March 1496 Mary Tudor Queen Consort France was born to King Henry VII of England and Ireland (age 39) and Elizabeth York Queen Consort England (age 30). She married (1) 9th October 1514 her second cousin twice removed Louis XII King France, son of Charles Valois Duke Orléans and Mary La Marck Duchess Orléans (2) May 1515 her fifth cousin Charles Brandon 1st Duke of Suffolk and had issue.
On 18th March 1523 Anne Talbot Countess Pembroke was born to George Talbot 4th Earl of Shrewsbury (age 55) and Elizabeth Walden (age 32). She married (1) in or before 1544 Peter Compton and had issue (2) after 20th February 1552 William Herbert 1st Earl Pembroke.
On 18th March 1555 Francis Valois Duke Anjou was born to King Henry II of France (age 35) and Catherine Medici Queen Consort France (age 35).
On 18th March 1589 Richard Sackville 3rd Earl Dorset was born to Robert Sackville 2nd Earl Dorset (age 28) and Margaret Howard (age 27) at Charterhouse [Map]. He married 27th February 1609 his fourth cousin once removed Anne Clifford Countess Dorset and Pembroke, daughter of George Clifford 3rd Earl of Cumberland and Margaret Russell Countess Cumberland, and had issue.
On 18th March 1609 Frederick III King of Denmark was born to Christian IV King of Denmark (age 31). He married 1643 his sixth cousin Sophie Amalie Hanover Queen Consort Denmark, daughter of George Hanover Duke Brunswick-Lüneburg and Anne Eleonore Hesse Darmstadt Duchess Brunswick-Lüneburg, and had issue.
On 18th March 1639 George Willoughby 7th Baron Willoughby of Parham was born to William Willoughby 6th Baron Willoughby of Parham (age 23) and Anne Carey Baroness Willoughby of Parham (age 24) at Belvoir Castle [Map]. He married 9th October 1666 Elizabeth Clinton Baroness De La Warr and had issue.
On 18th March 1683 Ralph Verney 1st Earl Verney was born to John Verney 1st Viscount Fermanagh (age 42) and Elizabeth Palmer.
On 18th March 1735 John Montagu 1st Baron Montagu was born to George Brudenell aka Montagu 1st Duke Montagu (age 22) and Mary Montagu Duchess of Montagu (age 24).
On 18th March 1746 General George Harris 1st Baron Harris was born to Reverend George Harris. He married 1780 Anne Carteret Dickson and had issue.
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 18th March 1751 Robert Hay-Drummond 10th Earl Kinnoul was born to Archbishop Robert Hay-Drummond (age 39) and Henrietta d'Auriol (age 24). He married 3rd June 1781 his half third cousin Sarah Harley Countess Kinnoul and had issue.
On 18th March 1780 Henry Manvers Pierrepont was born to Charles Medows aka Pierrepont 1st Earl Manvers (age 42) and Anne Mills Countess Manvers (age 33). He married 1818 Sophia Cecil, daughter of Henry Cecil 1st Marquess Exeter and Sarah Hoggins Countess Exeter, and had issue.
On 18th March 1791 John Talbot 16th Earl of Shrewsbury was born to John Joseph Talbot (age 25) and Catherine Clifton (age 18). He married before 3rd December 1817 Maria Theresa Talbot Countess Shrewsbury and Waterford and had issue.
On 18th March 1791 Edward John Walhouse aka Littleton 1st Baron Hatherton was born to Moreton Walhouse. He married (1) October 1812 Hyacinthe Mary Wellesley Baroness Hatherton, daughter of Richard Wellesley 1st Marquess Wellesley and Hyacinthe Gabrielle Roland Marchioness Wellesley, and had issue (2) 1852 Caroline Hurt Baroness Hatherton.
On 18th March 1808 John Villiers Shelley 7th Baronet was born to John Shelley 6th Baronet (age 36) and Frances Wickley Lady Shelley (age 11).
On 18th March 1808 Thomas James Agar aka Agar-Robartes 1st Baron Robartes was born to Charles Bagenal Agar (age 38) and Anna Maria Hunt. He married 8th January 1839 Juliana Pole-Carew Baroness Robartes and had issue.
On 18th March 1813 William Calder Marshall was born to William Marshall and Annie Calder, probably at Gilmour Place, Edinburgh [Map]. His father was a Goldsmith who had a shop at 1 South Bridge, Edinburgh [Map]. He attended the Edinburgh Royal High School and Edinburgh University before enrolling at the Edinburgh Trustees Academy in 1830. He married (1) 14th February 1842 Marianne Lawrie (2) 10th June 1845 Margaret Calder and had issue.
On 18th March 1819 Evelyn Boscawen 6th Viscount Falmouth was born to Reverend Hon John Evelyn Boscawen (age 29) and Catherine Elizabeth Annesley. He married 29th July 1845 Mary Stapleton Viscountess Falmouth 13th Baroness Despencer and had issue.
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 18th March 1821 Henry Strickland was born to George Strickland 7th Baronet (age 38) and Mary Constable.
On 18th March 1828 Son Wentworth-Fitzwilliam was born to Charles Wentworth-Fitzwilliam 5th and 3rd Earl Fitzwilliam (age 41) and Mary Dundas (age 40). He died the same day. Coefficient of inbreeding 6.25%.
On 18th March 1845 Robert Garnet Head 3rd Baronet was born to Francis Somerville Head 2nd Baronet (age 27).
On 18th March 1848 Princess Louise Caroline Alberta Windsor Duchess Argyll was born to Prince Albert Saxe Coburg Gotha (age 28) and Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom (age 28). Coefficient of inbreeding 7.25%. She married 21st May 1871 John Campbell 9th Duke Argyll, son of George Douglas Campbell 8th Duke Argyll and Elizabeth Georgiana Leveson-Gower Duchess Argyll.
On 18th March 1857 Thomas Wodehouse Leigh 2nd Baron Newton was born to William John Legh 1st Baron Newton (age 28) and Emily Jane Wodehouse (age 30). He married 1880 Evelyn Caroline Davenport Baroness Newton and had issue.
On 18th March 1869 George Charles Augustus Rowley 4th Baronet was born to George Charles Erskine Rowley 3rd Baronet (age 24).
On 18th March 1890 Robert Walker 4th Baronet was born to James Heron Walker 3rd Baronet (age 24). He married (1) 5th June 1913 Synolda Emily Thursby-Pelham Lady Walker and Jaffray and had issue (2) 23rd January 1923 Esme Ethel Alice d'Beaumont Lady Walker.
On 18th March 1903 Edmund Castell Bacon 14th and 13th Baronet was born to Nicholas Henry Bacon 13th and 12th Baronet (age 45). He married 15th January 1936 Priscilla Dora Ponsonby, daughter of Charles Edward Ponsonby 1st Baronet and Winifred Gibbs, and had issue.
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 18th March 1907 Captain David Reginald Rhys was born to Walter FitzUryan Rice 7th Baron Dynevor (age 33) and Margaret Child-Villiers Baroness Dynevor (age 32). He married 23rd March 1933 Anne Wellesley, daughter of Arthur Charles Wellesley 5th Duke Wellington and Lillian Maud Glen Coats Duchess Wellington.
On 18th March 1913 Margaret Geddes was born to Auckland Geddes 1st Baron Geddes (age 33). She married Louis Hesse Darmstadt Prince Hesse and by Rhine, son of Ernest Louis Hesse Darmstadt Grand Duke and Eleonore Solms Hohensolms Lich Grand Duchess.
On 18th March 1914 Ernest Augustus Hanover was born to Ernest Augustus Hanover Duke Brunswick (age 26) and Viktoria Luise Hohenzollern Duchess Brunswick (age 21). He a great x 2 grandson of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom. He married (1) 1951 Ortrud Schleswig Holstein Sonderburg Glücksburg (2) 1981 Monika Solms Laubach.
On 18th March 1918 Charles North was born to Frederick George North 8th Earl Guildford (age 41).
On 18th March 1918 Timothy Patrick Bowes-Lyon 16th Earl Strathmore and Kinghorne was born to Patrick Bowes-Lyon 15th Earl Strathmore and Kinghorne (age 33) and Dorothy Beatrix Godolphin Osborne (age 29).
On 18th March 1918 Nancy Moira Bowes-Lyon was born to Patrick Bowes-Lyon 15th Earl Strathmore and Kinghorne (age 33) and Dorothy Beatrix Godolphin Osborne (age 29).
On 18th March 1927 Walter Felope Grove 4th Baronet was born to Walter Peel Grove (age 22).
On 18th March 1947 John Hamilton Spencer-Smith 7th Baronet was born to Thomas Cospatric Hamilton-Spencer-Smith 6th Baronet (age 29).
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 18th March 1951 Dudley Adrian Conroy Ryder 8th Earl of Harrowby was born to Dudley Ryder 7th Earl of Harrowby (age 28).
On 18th March 1686 John Sheffield 1st Duke of Buckingham and Normanby (age 37) and Ursula Stawell Countess Mulgrave and Conway were married at the chapel of Littlecote House. She by marriage Countess Mulgrave. He the son of Edmund Sheffield 2nd Earl Mulgrave and Elizabeth Cranfield Countess Mulgrave (age 78).
On 18th March 1728 Henry Bromley 1st Baron Montfort (age 22) and Frances Wyndham (age 23) were married.
On 18th March 1771 John Thorold 9th Baronet (age 36) and Jane Hayford Lady Thorold were married.
On 18th March 1816 George Byron 7th Baron Byron (age 27) and Elizabeth Chandos-Pole (age 22) were married at St George's Church, Hanover Square.
On 18th March 1828 George Prévost 2nd Baronet (age 24) and Jane Williams Lady Prevost were married. She by marriage Lady Prevost of Belmont in Hampshire.
On 18th March 1948 Michael Culme-Seymour 5th Baronet (age 38) and Faith Montagu Lady Culme-Seymour (age 36) were married. She by marriage Lady Seymour of High Mount in Cork and Friery Park in Devon. She the daughter of George Charles Montagu 9th Earl Sandwich (age 73) and Alberta Sturges Countess Sandwich (age 70).
On 18th March 978 King Edward I of England (age 16) was murdered at Corfe Castle, Dorset [Map] when visiting his younger half-brother Æthelred (age 12) and his [Æthelred's] mother Aelfthryth (age 33). He was buried in Wareham, Dorset [Map] without ceremony. His half brother Æthelred succeeded II King of England.
On 18th March 1076 Ermengarde Blanche Ingelger Duchess Burgundy (age 58) died.
On 18th March 1103 Sybilla Conversano Duchess Normandy 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.
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On 18th March 1222 Yolande Coucy Countess Dreux (age 58) died.
On 18th March 1272 John Fitzalan 7th Earl of Arundel (age 25) died. His son Richard (age 5) succeeded 1st or 8th Earl Arundel. Some consider this to be a new creation.
On 18th March 1496 Thomas Burgh 1st Baron Burgh of Gainsborough (age 65) died. He was buried at Holy Trinity Church Gainsborough. His son Edward Burgh (age 33) was deemed insane so not summoned to Parliament; Baron Burgh extinct.
On 18th March 1508 Albert Wittelsbach IV Duke Bavaria (age 60) died. His son William (age 14) succeeded IV Duke Bavaria.
On 18th March 1638 Mary Cecil Countess Norwich died.
On 18th March 1654 Mary Beaumont Countess of Northampton (age 50) died.
On 18th March 1658 Thomas Wodehouse 2nd Baronet (age 73) died. His son Philip (age 49) succeeded 3rd Baronet Woodhouse of Wilberhall.
On 18th March 1670 John Anderson 2nd Baronet (age 41) died. His son Edmund (age 9) succeeded 3rd Baronet Anderson of Broughton in Lincolnshire.
On 18th March 1675 Arthur Chichester 1st Earl Donegal (age 68) died. He was buried at St Nicholas' Church, Carrickfergus, County Antrim. His nephew Arthur succeeded 2nd Earl Donegal, 3rd Viscount Chichester of Carrickfergus, 4th Baron Chichester of Belfast. Jane Ichyngham Countess Donegall by marriage Countess Donegal.
On 18th March 1688 Oliver St John 2nd Earl Bolingbroke (age 55) died. His brother Paulet (age 53) succeeded 3rd Earl Bolingbroke, 7th Baron St John of Bletso.
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 18th March 1690 William Portman 6th Baronet (age 46) died without issue. Baronet Portman of Orchard Portman in Somerset extinct. His estate was inherited by his aunt Anne's (age 77) son Henry Seymour. He also died without issue so the estate was inherited by his aunt Joan's great-grandson William Berkeley aka Portman (age 9).
On 18th March 1696 Anne St John Countess Rochester (age 81) died.
On 18th March 1717 Basil Feilding 3rd Earl Desmond 4th Earl Denbigh (age 49) died. His son William (age 20) succeeded 4th Earl Desmond, 5th Earl Denbigh, 5th Viscount Feilding, 5th Baron Feilding of Newnham Paddocks in Warwickshire, 4th Viscount Callan of Callan in Kilkenny, 4th Baron Feilding of Lecagh in Tipperary, 4th Baron St Liz.
On 18th March 1745 Robert Walpole 1st Earl Orford (age 68) died. His son Robert (age 44) succeeded 2nd Earl Orford. Margaret Rolle Countess Orford (age 36) by marriage Countess Orford.
On 18th March 1749 Matthew Decker 1st Baronet (age 70) died. Baronet Decker of London extinct.
On 18th March 1751 William Coventry 5th Earl Coventry (age 75) died. His son George (age 28) succeeded 6th Earl Coventry.
On 18th March 1773 Ludovic Grant 7th Baronet (age 66) died. His son James (age 34) succeeded 8th Baronet Grant of Colquhoun.
On 18th March 1773 Thomas Hales 4th Baronet (age 47) died. His brother Philip (age 38) succeeded 5th Baronet Hales of Beakesbourne in Kent.
On 18th March 1776 Mary Assheton Baroness Curzon (age 82) died.
On 18th March 1780 Susanna Kennedy Countess Winton (age 90) died at Auchans Castle, Auchans.
On 18th March 1793 Thomas Woods Knollys 7th Earl Banbury (age 65) died. He was buried at Winchester Cathedral [Map]. His son William (age 30) de jure 8th Earl Banbury, 7th Viscount Wallingford, 7th Baron Knollys.
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 18th March 1814 Margaret Georgiana Poyntz Countess Spencer (age 76) died.
On 18th March 1835 Henry Johnson 1st Baronet (age 87) died. His son Henry (age 49) succeeded 2nd Baronet Johnson of Bath in Somerset.
On 18th March 1843 William Montagu 5th Duke Manchester (age 71) died. His son George (age 43) succeeded 6th Duke Manchester, 9th Earl Manchester, 9th Viscount Mandeville, 9th Baron Montagu of Kimbolton. Millicent Sparrow Duchess Manchester (age 45) by marriage Duchess Manchester.
On 18th March 1844 Maria Forbes Countess Clarendon (age 83) died.
On 18th March 1848 John Crichton-Stuart 2nd Marquis of the Isle of Bute (age 54) died at Cardiff. His son John succeeded 3rd Marquis of the Isle of Bute, 6th Earl Bute, 3rd Earl of Windsor, 3rd Viscount Mountjoy of the Isle of Wight.
On 18th March 1854 Thomas William Anson 1st Earl Lichfield (age 58) died. His son Thomas (age 28) succeeded 2nd Earl Lichfield, 3rd Viscount Anson of Shugborough and Orgrave in Staffordshire and 3rd Baron Soberton of Soberton in Hampshire
On 18th March 1856 Henry Pottinger 1st Baronet (age 66) died. His son Frederick (age 25) succeeded 2nd Baronet Pottinger of Richmond.
On 18th March 1869 George Wyndham 1st Baron Leconfield (age 81) died. His son Henry (age 38) succeeded 2nd Baron Leconfield of Leconfield in the East Riding of Yorkshire.
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.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 18th March 1884 Arthur Douglas Bateman Scott 5th and 4th Baronet (age 23) died. His uncle Edward (age 58) succeeded 6th Baronet Scott of Great Barr in Staffordshire, 5th Baronet Bateman of Hartington Hall in Derbyshire.
On 18th March 1895 Charlotte Anne Thynne Duchess Buccleuch Duchess Queensbury (age 83) died.
On 18th March 1900 General William Lockhart (age 58) died of malaria. His funeral occurred the following day and the service was taken by James Welldon the Bishop of Calcutta, and former headmaster of Harrow School. Lockhart's good friend and Viceroy Lord Curzon (age 41) attended.
On 18th March 1913 George I King Greece (age 67) died. His son Constantine (age 44) succeeded I King Greece. Sophia Hohenzollern Queen Consort Greece (age 42) by marriage Queen Consort Greece.
On 18th March 1914 Florence Maude Baroness Braybrooke died.
On 18th March 1918 Catherine Sarah Cecil Baroness Barnard (age 56) died at Raby Castle, County Durham [Map]. She has a memorial at St Mary's Church, Staindrop [Map].
Catherine Sarah Cecil Baroness Barnard: On 8th April 1861 she was born to William Alleyne Cecil 3rd Marquess Exeter and and Georgina Sophia Pakenham Marchioness Exeter. On 28th June 1881 Henry de Vere Vane 9th Baron Barnard and she were married at St Thomas Church Marylebone. She the daughter of William Alleyne Cecil 3rd Marquess Exeter.
On 18th March 1925 Edward Lyulph Stanley 4th Baron Stanley 3rd Baron Eddisbury (age 85) died. His son Arthur (age 49) succeeded 5th Baron Stanley Alderley, 5th Baron Sheffield of Roscommon in Roscommon, 4th Baron Eddisbury of Winnington in Cheshire, 11th Baronet Stanley of Alderley in Cheshire.
On 18th March 1929 William Pery 4th Earl of Limerick (age 65) died. His half brother Edmund (age 40) succeeded 5th Earl Limerick. Angela Olivia Trotter Countess of Limerick (age 32) by marriage Countess Limerick.
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 18th March 1951 Caroline May Clifford Baroness Dormer died.
On 18th March 1963 Francis William Lawrance Venables-Vernon 9th Baron Vernon (age 74) died. His son John (age 40) succeeded 10th Baron Vernon of Kinderton in Cheshire.
On 18th March 1966 Kathleen Pelham Burn Countess Drogheda (age 79) died.
On 18th March 1994 Alvilde Bridges Viscountess Chaplin (age 84) died.
On 18th March 1999 Derek Winn 5th Baron St Oswald (age 79) died. His son Charles (age 40) succeeded 6th Baron St Oswald of Nostell in the West Riding of Yorkshire.
On 18th March 2010 June Mary Ponsonby Baroness Grimston (age 86) died.
On 18th March 2023 Robert Lindsay 29th Earl of Crawford 12th Earl Balcarres (age 96) died.