Chronicle of Geoffrey le Baker of Swinbroke
Baker was a secular clerk from Swinbroke, now Swinbrook, an Oxfordshire village two miles east of Burford. His Chronicle describes the events of the period 1303-1356: Gaveston, Bannockburn, Boroughbridge, the murder of King Edward II, the Scottish Wars, Sluys, Crécy, the Black Death, Winchelsea and Poitiers. To quote Herbert Bruce 'it possesses a vigorous and characteristic style, and its value for particular events between 1303 and 1356 has been recognised by its editor and by subsequent writers'. The book provides remarkable detail about the events it describes. Baker's text has been augmented with hundreds of notes, including extracts from other contemporary chronicles, such as the Annales Londonienses, Annales Paulini, Murimuth, Lanercost, Avesbury, Guisborough and Froissart to enrich the reader's understanding. The translation takes as its source the 'Chronicon Galfridi le Baker de Swynebroke' published in 1889, edited by Edward Maunde Thompson.
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21 Oct is in October.
On 21st October 1268 Bishop Ainan II was consecrated at Southwark Cathedral [Map] by Archbishop Boniface Savoy (age 61) and Bishop Walter Branscombe (age 48).
Sempringham Continuation. In the month of October next following, sir Robert Bruce, king of Scotland, pursued the king of England as far as to Blackmoor, and on 21st October 1322 the army of the king of England was defeated by the Scots near the town of Coxwold, and the earl of Richmond (age 56) was taken prisoner by the Scotch, and sir John Darcy, and many other knights and esquires, and others of the ranks, fled to York, and the Scotch burnt all the country and laid it waste as far as York, and came over the Wolds to Malton and all round, and they plundered all the country.
On 21st October 1345 Henry of Grosmont 1st Duke Lancaster (age 35) commanded an English army including Walter Manny 1st Baron Manny (age 35) at Auberoche, Perigueux during the Battle of Auberoche. The battle was a significant victory for the English with the French forces being heavily defeated. The ransoms alone made a fortune for many of the soldiers in Derby's army, as well as Derby himself, who was said to have made at least £50,000 from the day's captives, and sealed his reputation as 'one of the best warriors in the world'.
Froissart Book 3: 1342-1346. 220. [21st October 1345] And behold, the English came striking into that host, well prepared and foreseeing what they had to do, crying out: "Derby! Derby for the count!" and "Manny! Manny for the lord!" Then they began to cut down and hew apart the tents, chests, and pavilions, overturning one upon another, striking down, killing, and maiming men, throwing all into great confusion; and the French knew not to whom to turn, they were so bewildered and taken by surprise. And when they tried to draw up in the fields to rally and assemble, they found archers all ready, who shot at them, struck them, and killed them without mercy or pity. Then there fell suddenly upon those knights of Gascony a great misfortune; for they had no leisure to arm themselves nor to form ranks. The Count of Lille was taken in his pavilion and grievously wounded; the Count of Périgord likewise was captured in his own, and Sir Roger, his uncle; and were slain the Lord of Duras and Sir Aymar de Poitiers, while his brother the Count of Valentinois was taken. In short, never was so great a number of good men, knights and squires who were there, lost in so short a time; for each fled as best he might. It is true that the Count of Comminges, the Viscount of Carmain, the Lord of Villemur, the Lord of Brunquiel, the Lord of La Barde, and the Lord of Taride, who were encamped on the other side of the castle, rallied together, raised their banners, and advanced valiantly into the fields. But the English, who had already defeated the greater part of the host, came up shouting their cries that way, and fell in upon them in full career, like men wholly encouraged and who saw well that, unless fortune turned too much against them, the day was theirs. There were performed many fine feats of arms, many captures and rescues. When Sir Frank de Halle, Sir Alain de Finefroide, and Sir John de Lindehalle, who were inside the castle of Auberoche, heard the noise and shouting, and recognized the banners and pennons of their own men, they armed themselves and made all those who were with them arm likewise. Then they mounted their horses, issued out of the fortress of Auberoche, and charged straight into the thickest of the battle. This greatly refreshed and reinvigorated the English.
220. Evous les Englès venant frapant en celle host, pourveus et avisés de ce qu'il devoient faire, en escriant: «[D]erbi, [D]erbi au conte!» et «Mauni, Mauni au signeur!» Puis commencièrent à coper et à decoper tentes, trés et pavillons, et reverser l'un sus l'autre, et abatre et occire et mehagnier gens, et mettre en grant meschief; ne [les François] ne savoient auquel entendre, tant estoient il quoitiet et fort hastet. Et quant il se traioient sus les camps pour yaus recueillier et assambler, il trouvoient arciers tous appareilliés qui les traioient et bersoient et occioient sans merci et sans pité. Là avint soudainnement sus ces chevaliers de Gascongne uns grans meschiés, car il n'eurent nul loisir d'yaus armer ne traire sus les camps. Mais fu li contes de [Lille] pris en son pavillon et moult durement navrés, et li contes de Pieregorch ossi dedens le sien, et messires Rogiers, ses oncles, et occis li sires de Duras et messires Aymars de Poitiers, et pris li contes de Valentinois ses frères. Briefment, on ne vit onques tant de bonnes gens, chevaliers et escuiers qui là estoient, perdu à si peu de fait, car cescuns fuioit que mieulz mieulz. Bien est verité que li contes de Commignes et li viscontes de Quarmaing et cil de Villemur et cils de Brunikiel et li sires de la Barde et li sires de Taride, qui estoient logiet d'autre part le chastiel, se recueillièrent et misent leurs banières hors, et se traisent vassaument sus les camps. Mais li Englès, qui avoient jà desconfis le plus grant partie de l'ost, s'en vinrent en escriant leurs cris celle part, et se boutèrent e[n]s de plains eslais, ensi que gens tous reconfortés et qui veoient bien, se fortune ne leur estoit trop contraire, que li journée estoit pour yaus. Là eut fait mainte belle apertise d'armes, mainte prise et mainte rescousse. Quant messires Franke de Halle et messires Alains de Finefroide [et messires Jehans de Lindehalle], qui estoient ens ou chastiel [de Auberoche], entendirent le noise et le hue, et recogneurent les banières et les pennons de leurs gens, si s'armèrent et fisent armer tous chiaus qui avoecques euls estoient. Et puis montèrent à cheval, et issirent de le forterèce d'Auberoce, et s'en vinrent sus les camps et se boutèrent ou plus fort de le bataille: ce rafresci et resvigura grandement les Englès.
Adam Murimuth Continuation. And about the feast of Saint Andrew (November 30), good news came from Gascony: namely, that the Earl of Derby and his aforesaid companions had fought a battle near Auberoche (Alba Roca) against the forces of the King of France. There, at first, more than a thousand foot soldiers, called bidowers [crossbowmen or light infantry], were slain by the English archers, and afterward seven hundred men-at-arms were likewise killed by the same archers. Three counts were taken prisoner, namely, the Count of L'Isle, the Count of Valentinois, called Louis Peytavin, and the Count of Pontaigu, together with seven viscounts, three barons, and fourteen baronets, among whom were the Seneschal of Clermont and the Seneschal of Toulouse, who was related to the Pope, and many others whose names are unknown. Afterward they went on to the fair of the town of Mussidan [Moslak], seized all the horses they found there and took the merchants captive, and burned the entire town down to the ground.
Et circa festum sancti Andreæ venerunt de Vasconia bona videlicet quod comes Derbiæ et complices sui supradicti, apud Albam Rockam habuerunt conflictum cum potentia regis Franciæ, ubi primo per sagittarios Anglicos plus quam mille pedites, bidowers nuncupati, et postmodum septingenti armati per sagittarios interfecti; et fuerunt capti tres comites, videlicet de Lyle, de Valentyns qui vocatur L[udovicus] Peyters, et de Ponte acuto, septem vicecomites, barones tres, et baronetti quatuordecim, inter quos erant seneschallus Clarmonteyn et seneschallus Tholosanus, affinis papæ, et alii multi quorum nomina ignorantur. Postea vero transierunt ad nundinas villæ de Moslak, et omnes equos repertos ibidem abduxerunt et mercatores ceperunt, et totam villam usque ad aream combusserunt.
Petite Chronique de Guyenne. 38. 1345. The battle took place before Auberoche44 in Périgord, on the day of Saint Seurin45, led by the Earl of Derby, who won the field46.
38. 1345. L'an MCCCXLV fo la batalha dabant Albarocha44 en Peyregore lo jorn de Sent Seurin per lo conte Darvi qui gasanhet lo camp46.
Note 44. Auberoche, to the northeast of Périgueux, not far from the road from Périgueux to Limoges. (Department of the Dordogne, arrondissement of Périgueux, canton of Savignac-les-Églises, commune of Le Change.)
44. Auberoche, au N.-E. de Périgueux, non loin de la route de Périgueux à Limoges. (Dordogne, arr. de Périgueux, cant. de Savignac-les-Eglises, comm. du Change.)
Note 45. On October 21, 1346, according to the interpretation proposed by M. Siméon Luce. (Froissart, ed. Luce, vol. III, p. xvi, note 3.)
45. Le 21 octobre 1346, selon l'interprétation proposée par M. Siméon Luce. (Froissart, éd. Luce, t. Ilf, p. xvi, n. 3.)
Note 46. The passage from the Livre velu, to which reference has been made above, reads: "In the year 1345, Henry of Lancaster, Earl of Derby, fought a pitched battle with the army of the King of France on the day of Saint Seurin, before the place of Auberoche, which the said French had besieged." (Quoted in Guinodie, Histoire de Libourne, vol. I, p. 39, note 4.) Dom Vaissette was the first to point out, as has been mentioned above, the importance of the Petite Chronique de Guyenne for the events of 1345. (See above, p. 53, note 1.)
46. Le passage du Livre velu, auquel il a été fait allusion plus haut, porte: "En l'an mil .ccc. quaranta et sincq, Henri de Lancastre, compte Derbi, se combata en batalha restada am l'agent deu rey deffransa lo jorn de sent Seurin, devant lo loc d'Aubarrocha que los ditz franses linen agsitiat." (Cité dans Guinodie, Histoire de Libourne, t. I, p. 39, n. 4.) D. Vaissete a le premier signalé, comme il a été dit ci-dessus, l'importance de la Pelite chronique au point de vue des événements de 1345. (Voir ci-dessus p. 53, n. 1.)
. Of the Battle of Auberoche, where the French were defeated by the English.
[21st October 1345] Then, after many nobles of the kingdom of France had assembled with a great army at Auberoche to oppose the said earl, the Earl of Derby, advancing to meet them, engaged in a very fierce battle with them. Many of the French were slain, and the Counts of L'Isle, Valentinois, and Pontaigu, together with seven viscounts, three barons, fourteen bannerets, and many knights and others, were taken captive there. Thus he gained a complete victory over them, and afterward, throughout the whole following winter, he conducted himself there with great energy and success.
De bello de Albaroche, ubi Gallici vincuntur per Anglicos.
Deinde multis nobilibus de regno Franciæ cum ingenti exercitu apud Albaroche, ad resistendum dicto comiti, congregatis, dictus comes Derbiæ, veniens in occursum, conflictu habito inter ipsos valde forti et multis admodum Francigenis interfectis, ac de Lyle, Valentinoys, et de Pontacu comitibus, septemque vicecomitibus, iij baronibus, xiiij banerettis, et multis militibus et aliis ibidem captis, victoriose devicit eosdem; subsequenterque per totam hiemem subsequentem ibidem se strenue gessit.
On 21st October 1422 Charles "Beloved Mad" VI King France (age 53) died at Hôtel Saint Pol, Paris [Map]. The succession of the French throne was disputed between:
King Henry VI succeeded II King France: Lancaster
Charles "Victorious" VII King France (age 19) succeeded VII King France: Capet Valois. Marie Valois Anjou Queen Consort France (age 18) by marriage Queen Consort France.
On 21st October 1425 Ralph Neville 1st Earl of Westmoreland (age 61) died. He was buried at St Mary's Church, Staindrop [Map]. His grandson Ralph (age 19) succeeded 2nd Earl of Westmoreland. Elizabeth Percy Countess of Westmoreland (age 30) by marriage Countess of Westmoreland.
Monument to Ralph Neville 1st Earl of Westmoreland and his wives Margaret Stafford Baroness Neville Raby and Joan Beaufort Countess of Westmoreland (age 46). Early Plate Bascinet Period. Orle. Man with Two Wives.
Elizabeth Percy Countess of Westmoreland: Around 1395 she was born to Henry "Hotspur" Percy and Elizabeth Mortimer Baroness Camoys at Alnwick Castle, Northumberland [Map]. She a great x 2 granddaughter of King Edward III of England. Around 1404 John Clifford 7th Baron Clifford and she were married. She by marriage Baroness de Clifford. They were third cousin once removed. He a great x 4 grandson of King Edward I of England. She a great x 2 granddaughter of King Edward III of England. In 1426 Ralph Neville 2nd Earl of Westmoreland and she were married. They were second cousin once removed. He a great x 3 grandson of King Edward I of England. She a great x 2 granddaughter of King Edward III of England. On 26th October 1436 Elizabeth Percy Countess of Westmoreland died.
On 21st October 1449 George York 1st Duke of Clarence was born to Richard Plantagenet 3rd Duke of York (age 38) and Cecily "Rose of Raby" Neville Duchess York (age 34) at Dublin Castle, Dublin. He a great x 2 grandson of King Edward III of England. Coefficient of inbreeding 2.42%. He married 11th July 1469 his first cousin once removed Isabel Neville Duchess Clarence, daughter of Richard "Kingmaker" Neville Earl Warwick, 6th Earl Salisbury and Anne Beauchamp 16th Countess Warwick, and had issue.
On 21st October 1494 Gian Galeazzo Sforza 6th Duke Milan (age 25) died. His uncle Ludovico (age 42) succeeded Duke Milan.
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.
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Chronicles of London Vitellius A XVI. 21st October 1497 ... and from thens to Shene, where to her Grace was brought, the Saterday before Saynt Symon and Jude, the wif of Perkyn [Catherine Gordon] aforsaid; which said wif was a Scottissh woman and doughter vnto the Erie of Huntley (age 42) of Scotland.
Calais in the Hands of the English. [21st October 1532]. The xxj. of Octobar kynge Henry rode from his towne of Calleys to Boleyne with all his trayne, and the xxx. of the same monethe returnyd agayne to Callais and the Frenche kynge with him, and the kynge of Naverne, and the cardinall of Loren, and many othar duks, bysshops, and great lords of Fraunce, Gascoigne, Bretaigne and Normandy; and the xxviij. of Octobar kynge Henry made the kynge of Naverne knight of the gartar,a and the next day the Frenche kynge with the kynge of Naverne and all the greate lords of Fraunce rode agayne to Boleyne, and kynge Henry of England rode with them to Sandyngfilde, where the kynge of England had made a costly banqwete, and there the iij. kyngs departyd lyke lovynge bretherne in greate amytie. The Frenche kynge payde for all the costes of the kynge of England, and them that cam with hym to Boleyne; and the kynge of England payde for the Frenche men's coste, and all that cam with them to Calleys, and gave the ij. kyngs ryche gyftes.
Note a. This is a mistake, The king of Navarre was not elected of the Garter; but two Frenchmen were elected on this occasion, namely, Anne de Montmorency count de Beaumont (afterwards duke de Montmorency), grand master, and Philip de Chabot count de Neublanche, admiral of France. This honour was conferred upon those illustrious subjects of Francis I. in return for the investiture of the dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk with the order of St. Michael at Boulogne three days previously." —Beltz's Memorials of the Order of the Garter, p. xcii; Anstis, Register of the Garter, vol, ii. p. 391.
The Maner of the Triumphe at Caleys and Bulleyn. 21st October 1532. And on the mondaye the. xxj. daye of October the Kyng of Englande toke his waye to mete with the frensshe kyng at the place before appoynted with seven score [140] all in veluet cotes afore hym lordes and Knyghtes and forty of his garde and other to the nombre (as we thynke) of six hondred horses and as well horsed as euer was seen. And the Kyng our mayster mette with the frensshe Kyng at Sandyngfelde within the englysshe pale thre myles. There the frensshe kynge taryed for our mayster the space of an houre or two the frensshe kynge beyngc accompanyed with the kynge of Nauerne the cardinal of Loreyn the duke of Vandome and1 with dyuerse other noblemen well and rychely appoynted beynge of lyke nombre as our kyng was of that is to saye six hondred psones2. There was the louyngest metyng that euer was seen for the one embraced the other five or six tymes on horsbacke and so dyd the lordes on eyther party eche to other and so dyd ryde hande in hande with greate loue the space of a myle3 and than they dyd lyght of theyr horses and dranke eche to other the frensshe kyng dranke fyrst to our kyng and whan they had dronke they embraced eche other agayne with great loue and so rode towards Bulleyn our kynge on the ryght hande. And whan they came within a myle of Bulleyn there mette with the kynges the Dolphyn (age 14) beynge accompanyed with his two bretherne the duke of Orliaunce (age 13) and the count or erle of Angolame (age 10) very goodly chyldren and attendyng vpon them four cardynalles with a thousand horses very well beseen. And whan they came nere to the towne the frensshe kynge caused our mayster to tary whyles the gonshot was shotte whiche was herd fro Bulleyn twenty englysshe myles of. And so entered the towne where stode the captayn with the sowdyours in good ordre and aboue them stode a hondred swytsheners of the frensh kynges garde in theyr dublettes and theyr hosen of yelowe veluct cutte goodly persons4 and aboue them stode two hundred of the frensshe kynges garde more scottes and frensshmen in cotes of yelow blewe and crymsyn veluet beryng halberdes in theyr handes and aboue them stode two hundred gentylmen beyng in theyr gownes well and rychely beseen euery man hauyng an ax5 in theyr handes and theyr captaines standyng by them. And so they taryed in Bulleyn mondaye tuysdaye Wednesday and thursday all daye.6 And for the greate chere that was there no man can expresse it. For the kynges grace was there enterteyned all at the frensshe kynges costes and charges. And euery daye noble men of Fraunce desyred our nobles and gentylmen home to theyr lodgynges where as they founde theyr houses rychely hanged greate cupbordes of plate sumptuous fare with syngyng and playenge of all kyndes of musyke. And also there was sent vnto our lodgynges great fare with all maner of wynes for our seruantes and our horsmeet payd for and al at theyr charges. And euery day the frensshe kyng had at dyncr and souper with hym certayne noble men of Englande. And the kynges grace had in lykewyse certeyn of theyr nobles at dyner and souper during the tyme of theyr beyng at Bulleyn. And this contynued with as great chere and familiarite as myght be.
Note 1. The Second Edition omits: "and."
Note 2. persons.
Note 3. The Second Edition inserts: At the metyng of these two noble kynges there were sacres and sacrettes cast of and at dyuerse flyghtes two kytes were beten downe which were sooryng in the ayre wh such lyke pastyme whiche greatly pleased al the nobles on bothe partyes.
Note 4. The Second Edition reads "persons" thus "psones."
Note 5. The Second Edition has "a batayle ax."
Note 6. The Second Edition inserts: "The tuysday beynge the seconde day of hys there beyng the frenssh king gaue our kyng ryche apparayle wrought with nedle werke pyrled [fringed] with golde in the whiche lyke apparayle bothe the kynges went to our lady chyrche in Bulleyn. And at that time our kyng optayned release and lyberte of the frenssh kyng for all prysoners at that tyme beynge prisoners in Bulleyn. And in lykewyse dyd the frenssh kyng in Caleys of our kyng and mayster at his there beynge and optayned grace for all banysshed men whiche wolde make sute for theyr pardon. And to esteme the rich trauerses [low curtains] that were in Bulleyn at our lady chyrche and in Caleys in our lady chyrche in lykewyse for bothe the kynges the riche ordynaunces and prouysyon for the same it is to moche for to wryte. And as for the greate chere " &c.
Henry Machyn's Diary. 21st October 1551. The xxj day of October was cared [to the Tower] my lord Pagett (age 45) by the gard-the v yer K. [E. vjt.]
Henry Machyn's Diary. 21st October 1554. The xxj day of October ded the yerle of Warwyke (age 27), the eldest sune of the duke of Northumberland that was heddyd, at ser [Henry] Sydnay (age 25) plasse at Penthurst [Map] at mydnyght he ded.
Note. P. 72. Ibid. Death of the earl of Warwick. John Dudley earl of Warwick, the eldest son of the duke of Northumberland, was one of the knights of the Bath at the coronation of Edward VI. On the 29th April 1552, he was made master of the horse to the king (Pat. 6 Edw. VI. p. 5); but Collins, (Memoirs of the Sidneys, p. 31,) is wrong in saying he was afterwards chosen a Knight of the Garter. Strype, Mem. ii. 500, erroneously inserts the christian name of Ambrose to the patent of master of the horse. On receiving that office the earl of Warwick resigned that of master of the buck-hounds to his brother lord Robert Dudley. (Ibid. 501.)
Henry Machyn's Diary. 21st October 1557. The xxj day of October ded my lade the contes of Arundell at Bathe plase in sant Clement parryche with-owt Tempylle-bare.
Henry Machyn's Diary. 21st October 1559. The xxj day of October was cared from Halewell [Map] unto Sordyche chyrche my lade the contes of Rutland, with xxx [30] clarkes and prestes syngyng, and mony pore men and powre women in blake gownes a lx [60] and mo, morners to the nomber of a C [100] and ij [2] haroldes of armes, master Garter (age 49) and master Yorke; then cam the corsse; a-for a grett baner of armes, and a-bowt her iiij [4] goodly banerrolles of dyvers armes; and master Beycon mad the sermon; and after a grett dolle of money, ij d [2 pence] a-pesse; and so to dener, and yt was wryten a-bowt the valans Sic transit gloria mundi, and ther was vj [6] dosen penselles and vj [6] dosen skochyons.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 21st October 1661. Early with Mr. Moore by coach to Chelsy, to my Lord Privy Seal's (age 55), but have missed of coming time enough; and having taken up Mr. Pargiter, the goldsmith (who is the man of the world that I do most know and believe to be a cheating rogue), we drank our morning draft there together of cake and ale, and did make good sport of his losing so much by the King's (age 31) coming in, he having bought much of Crown lands, of which, God forgive me! I am very glad.
John Evelyn's Diary. 21st October 1662. To the Queen-Mother's (age 52) Court, where her Majesty (age 32) related to us divers passages of her escapes during the Rebellion and wars in England.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 21st October 1663. Thence, having my belly full, away on foot to my brother's, all along Thames Streete, and my belly being full of small beer, I did all alone, for health's sake, drink half a pint of Rhenish wine at the Still-yard [Map], mixed with beer. From my brother's with my wife to the Exchange [Map], to buy things for her and myself, I being in a humour of laying out money, but not prodigally, but only in clothes, which I every day see that I suffer for want of, I so home, and after a little at my office, home to supper and to bed. Memorandum: This morning one Mr. Commander, a scrivener, came to me from Mr. Moore with a deed of which. Mr. Moore had told me, that my Lord had made use of my name, and that I was desired by my Lord to sign it. Remembering this very well, though understanding little of the particulars, I read it over, and found it concern Sir Robt. Bernard and Duckinford, their interest in the manor of Brampton. So I did sign it, declaring to Mr. Commander that I am only concerned in having my name at my Lord Sandwich's (age 38) desire used therein, and so I sealed it up after I had signed and sealed the deed, and desired him to give it so sealed to Mr. Moore. I did also call at the Wardrobe this afternoon to have told Mr. Moore of it, but he was not within, but knowing Mr. Commander to have the esteem of a good and honest man with my Lord Crew, I did not doubt to intrust him with the deed after I had signed it. This evening after I came home I begun to enter my wife in arithmetique, in order to her studying of the globes, and she takes it very well, and, I hope, with great pleasure, I shall bring her to understand many fine things.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 21st October 1666. Lord's Day. Up, and with my wife to church, and her new woman Barker with her the first time. The girle will, I think, do very well. Here a lazy sermon, and so home to dinner, and took in my Lady Pen (age 42) and Peg (age 15) (Sir William being below with the fleete), and mighty merry we were, and then after dinner presently (it being a mighty cool day) I by coach to White Hall, and there attended the Cabinet, and was called in before the King (age 36) and them to give an account of our want of money for Tangier [Map], which troubles me that it should be my place so often and so soon after one another to come to speak there of their wants-the thing of the world that they love least to hear of, and that which is no welcome thing to be the solicitor for-and to see how like an image the King sat and could not speak one word when I had delivered myself was very strange; only my Chancellor (age 57) did ask me, whether I thought it was in nature at this time to help us to anything. So I was referred to another meeting of the Lords Commissioners for Tangier and my Lord Treasurer (age 59), and so went away, and by coach home, where I spent the evening in reading Stillingfleet's (age 31) defence of the Archbishopp, the part about Purgatory, a point I had never considered before, what was said for it or against it, and though I do believe we are in the right, yet I do not see any great matter in this book.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 21st October 1666. This afternoon walking with Sir H. Cholmly (age 34) long in the gallery, he told me, among many other things, how Harry Killigrew (age 29) is banished the Court lately, for saying that my Baroness Castlemayne (age 25) was a little lecherous girle when she was young.... This she complained to the King (age 36) of, and he sent to the Duke of York (age 33), whose servant he is, to turn him away. The Duke of York hath done it, but takes it ill of my Lady that he was not complained to first. She attended him to excute it, but ill blood is made by it. He told me how Mr. Williamson (age 33) stood in a little place to have come into the House of Commons, and they would not choose him; they said, "No courtier". And which is worse, Bab May (age 38) went down in great state to Winchelsea [Map] with the Duke of York's letters, not doubting to be chosen; and there the people chose a private gentleman in spite of him, and cried out they would have no Court pimp to be their burgesse; which are things that bode very ill. This afternoon I went to see and sat a good while with Mrs. Martin, and there was her sister Doll, with whom, contrary to all expectation, I did what I would, and might have done anything else.
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.
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Samuel Pepys' Diary. 21st October 1667. Thus this business ended to-day, having kept them till almost two o'clock; and then I by coach with Sir W. Pen (age 46) as far as St. Clement's, talking of this matter, and there set down; and I walked to Sir G. Carteret's (age 57), and there dined with him and several Parliament-men, who, I perceive, do all look upon it as a thing certain that the Parliament will enquire into every thing, and will be very severe where they can find any fault. Sir W. Coventry (age 39), I hear, did this day make a speech, in apology for his reading the letter of the Duke of Albemarle (age 58), concerning the good condition which Chatham, Kent [Map] was in before the enemy come thither: declaring his simple intention therein, without prejudice to my Lord. And I am told that he was also with the Duke of Albemarle yesterday to excuse it; but this day I do hear, by some of Sir W. Coventry's friends, that they think he hath done himself much injury by making this man, and his interest, so much his enemy.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 21st October 1667. This day I did get a list of the fourteen particular miscarriages which are already before the Committee to be examined; wherein, besides two or three that will concern this Office much, there are those of the prizes, and that of Bergen, and not following the Dutch ships, against my Lord Sandwich (age 42); that, I fear, will ruine him, unless he hath very good luck, or they may be in better temper before he can come to be charged: but my heart is full of fear for him and his family. I hear that they do prosecute the business against my Lord Chief Justice Keeling (age 60) with great severity.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 21st October 1668. At noon to dinner to Mr. Batelier's, his mother coming this day a-housewarming to him, and several friends of his, to which he invited us. Here mighty merry, and his mother the same; I heretofore took her for a gentlewoman, and understanding. I rose from table before the rest, because under an obligation to go to my Lord Brouncker's (age 48), where to meet several gentlemen of the Royal Society, to go and make a visit to the French Embassador Colbert (age 43), at Leicester House, he having endeavoured to make one or two to my Lord Brouncker, as our President, but he was not within, but I come too late, they being gone before: but I followed to Leicester House; but they are gore in and up before me; and so I away to the New Exchange, and there staid for my wife, and she come, we to Cow Lane [Map], and there I shewed her the coach which I pitch on, and she is out of herself for joy almost. But the man not within, so did nothing more towards an agreement, but to Crow's (age 51) about a bed, to have his advice, and so home, and there had my wife to read to me, and so to supper and to bed. Memorandum: that from Crow's, we went back to Charing Cross [Map], and there left my people at their tailor's, while I to my Lord Sandwich's (age 43) lodgings, who come to town the last night, and is come thither to lye: and met with him within: and among others my new cozen Creed, who looks mighty soberly; and he and I saluted one another with mighty gravity, till we come to a little more freedom of talk about it. But here I hear that Sir Gilbert Pickering is lately dead, about three days since, which makes some sorrow there, though not much, because of his being long expected to die, having been in a lethargy long. So waited on my Lord to Court, and there staid and saw the ladies awhile: and thence to my wife, and took them up; and so home, and to supper and bed.
On 21st October 1670 Hugh Smithson 1st Baronet (age 72) died at his home in Tottenham High Cross. His son Jerome (age 38) succeeded 2nd Baronet Smithson of Stanwick in Yorkshire. He was buried in the Church of St John the Baptist, Stanwick, North Yorkshire [Map].
Monument to Hugh Smithson 1st Baronet and Dorothy Royston sculpted by William Stanton (age 31). Note the effigies appears to have been sourced differently since hers has no mottling.
Hugh Smithson 1st Baronet: Around 1598 he was born to Antony Smithson.
Jerome Smithson 2nd Baronet: In 1632 he was born to Hugh Smithson 1st Baronet. In 1684 Jerome Smithson 2nd Baronet died. His son Hugh succeeded 3rd Baronet Smithson of Stanwick in Yorkshire.
John Evelyn's Diary. 21st October 1671. Quitting Euston, I lodged this night at Newmarket, Suffolk, where I found the jolly blades racing, dancing, feasting, and reveling; more resembling a luxurious and abandoned rout, than a Christian Court. The Duke of Buckingham (age 43) was now in mighty favor, and had with him that impudent woman, the Countess of Shrewsbury (age 29), with his band of fiddlers, etc.
On 21st October 1690 Infanta Isabel Luísa of Portugal (age 21) died of smallpox.
On 21st October 1696 John Manners 3rd Duke Rutland was born to John Manners 2nd Duke Rutland (age 20) and Catherine Russell Duchess Rutland (age 20). He married before 1718 Bridget Sutton Duchess Rutland, daughter of Robert Sutton 2nd Baron Lexinton and Margaret Hungerford Baroness Lexington, and had issue.
On 21st October 1696 James Fitz James 2nd Duke Berwick was born to James Fitzjames 1st Duke Berwick (age 26) and Honora Burke Duchess Berwick (age 22) at Saint-Germain-en-Laye, Yvelines. He a grandson of King James II of England Scotland and Ireland. He married 31st December 1716 Catalina Ventura Colón Duchess Berwick 9th Duchess Veragua, daughter of Pedro Manuel Colón 7th Duke Veragua, and had issue.
On 21st October 1700 Elisabeth Charlotte Lorraine was born to Leopold Duke of Lorraine (age 21) and Élisabeth Charlotte Bourbon Duchess Lorraine (age 24). She a great x 3 granddaughter of King James I of England and Ireland and VI of Scotland. She died aged ten in 1711.
On 21st October 1739 William Montagu 2nd Duke Manchester (age 39) died. His brother Robert (age 29) succeeded 3rd Duke Manchester, 6th Earl Manchester, 6th Viscount Mandeville, 6th Baron Montagu of Kimbolton. Harriet Dunch Duchess Manchester by marriage Duchess Manchester.
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.
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On 21st October 1747 Archbishop Thomas Herring (age 54) was elected Archbishop of Canterbury.
On 21st October 1771 Charles Murray aka Aynesley-Murray was born to John Murray 3rd Duke Atholl (age 42) and Charlotte Murray Duchess Atholl (age 40). Coefficient of inbreeding 6.29%. He married 18th June 1793 Alicia Miford aka Mitford-Aynsley.
On 21st October 1771 William Montagu 5th Duke Manchester was born to George Montagu 4th Duke Manchester (age 34) and Elizabeth Dashwood Duchess Manchester (age 31). He married 7th October 1793 Susan Gordon Duchess Manchester, daughter of Alexander Gordon 4th Duke Gordon and Jane Maxwell Duchess Gordon, and had issue.
On 21st October 1772 Samuel Taylor Coleridge was born to Reverend John Coleridge (age 53) and Anne Bowden (age 46). The youngest of ten children by his father's second wife.
On 21st October 1775 François-Hubert Drouais (age 47) died.
On 21st October 1777 Ludwig Saxe Coburg Altenburg was born to Duke Ernest of Saxe Coburg Altenburg (age 32) and Charlotte Saxe Meiningen Duchess Saxe Gotha Altenburg (age 26) at Gotha. He died aged less than one years old.
On 21st October 1781 Vere Beauclerk 1st Baron de Vere (age 82) died. His son Aubrey (age 41) succeeded 2nd Baron Vere of Hanworth in Middlesex.
On 21st October 1797 Duke Augustus of Saxe Coburg Altenburg (age 24) and Louise Charlotte Mecklenburg-Schwerin (age 17) were married. He the son of Duke Ernest of Saxe Coburg Altenburg (age 52) and Charlotte Saxe Meiningen Duchess Saxe Gotha Altenburg (age 46). They were second cousins.
On 21st October 1797 Adam Duncan 1st Viscount Duncan (age 66) was created 1st Viscount Duncan of Camperdowne in recognition of his victory at the Battle of Camperdown.
On 21st October 1800 John Hayter was born to Charles Hayter (age 39).
On 21st October 1805 Admiral Henry Digby (age 35) commanded Africa at Cape Trafalgar during the Battle of Trafalgar.
Richard King 2nd Baronet (age 30) captained HMS Achille, the seventh ship in Collingwood's division. Achille was heavily engaged, chasing off the Spanish Montanez and the battling alongside HMS Belleisle with the Argonauta. Whilst chasing this ship through the melee, Achille was cut off by her namesake, the French Achille, with whom she began a savage cannonade until joined by the French ship Berwick, whom Achille turned her attention on.
George Alexander Barker (age 20) served on The Swiftsure.
On 21st October 1805 Frank Abney-Hastings (age 11) fought aboard HMS Neptune at the Battle of Trafalgar.
The True Chronicles of Jean le Bel Volume 1 Chapters 1-60 1307-1342
The True Chronicles of Jean le Bel offer one of the most vivid and immediate accounts of 14th-century Europe, written by a knight who lived through the events he describes, and experienced some of them first hand. Covering the early decades of the Hundred Years’ War, this remarkable chronicle follows the campaigns of Edward III of England, the politics of France and the Low Countries, and the shifting alliances that shaped medieval warfare. Unlike later historians, Jean le Bel writes with a strong sense of eyewitness authenticity, drawing on personal experience and the testimony of fellow soldiers. His narrative captures not only battles and sieges, but also the realities of military life, diplomacy, and the ideals of chivalry that governed noble society. A key source for Jean Froissart, Le Bel’s chronicle stands on its own as a compelling and insightful work, at once historical record and literary achievement. This translation builds on the 1905 edition published in French by Jules Viard, adding extensive translations from other sources Rymer's Fœdera, the Chronicles of Adam Murimuth, William Nangis, Walter of Guisborough, a Bourgeois of Valenciennes, Geoffrey le Baker of Swinbroke and Richard Lescot to enrich the original text and Viard's notes.
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On 21st October 1805 Horatio Nelson 1st Viscount Nelson (age 47) was killed in action at the Battle of Trafalgar. Viscount Nelson of the Nile and Burnham Thorpe in Norfolk extinct. His brother William (age 48) succeeded 2nd Baron Nelson of the Nile and Hillborough in Norfolk.
On 21st October 1811 Frances Campart (age 39) died. She was buried at St Wilfrid's Church, Kirkharle [Map].
Frances Campart: Around 1772 she was born. In 1799 William Loraine 4th Baronet and she were married. The difference in their ages was 22 years.
On 21st October 1823 John William Egerton 7th Earl Bridgewater (age 70) died. He was buried in the Bridgewater Chapel, St Peter and St Paul Church, Little Gaddesden where he has a monumment sculpted by Richard Westmacott (age 48). His brother Francis (age 66) succeeded 8th Earl Bridgewater, 9th Viscount Brackley, 9th Baron Ellesmere.
John William Egerton 7th Earl Bridgewater: On 14th April 1753 he was born to Bishop John Egerton and Anne Sophia Grey. Coefficient of inbreeding 6.25%.
Francis Henry Egerton 8th Earl Bridgewater: On 11th November 1756 he was born to Bishop John Egerton and Anne Sophia Grey. Coefficient of inbreeding 6.25%. On 8th November 1781 Francis Henry Egerton 8th Earl Bridgewater was elected Fellow of the Royal Society. On 31st March 1791 Francis Henry Egerton 8th Earl Bridgewater was elected Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London.
On 21st October 1824 George Godolphin Osborne 8th Duke Leeds (age 22) and Harriet Emma Arundel Stewart (age 24) were married at the British Embassy, Paris. She the illegitmate daughter of Granville Leveson-Gower 1st Earl Granville (age 51) and Henrietta Frances Spencer Countess Bessborough. They were fourth cousins.
On 21st October 1830 Algernon Percy 1st Earl Beverley (age 80) died. His son George (age 52) succeeded 2nd Earl Beverley.
On 21st October 1843 Henry Richard Graves (age 25) and Henrietta Wellesley (age 27) were married.
Ten Years' Digging. 21st of October, we made another attempt to find an interment in this barrow [Hurst Low Barrow [Map]], which was unsuccessfully opened on the 3rd of July. Having previously examined the middle by a trench from one side, we made a cutting through the opposite and hitherto undisturbed side, and on approaching the termination of the former diggings, found two large sandstones, foreign to the soil, one of which was about three feet square by one foot thick; the other was of a round form. Our section exhibited strata of variously coloured clay, whicli underneath the stones was greenish blue, unlike any other part. An arrow-head, and a rude instrument of yellow flint were picked up, but no interment was found, although we observed charcoal mingled with the clay.
On 21st October 1855 Henry Pierce Bone (age 75) died at 22 Percy Street, Bedford Square.
On 21st October 1860 Charles Gordon-Lennox 5th Duke Richmond (age 69) died. His son Charles (age 42) succeeded 6th Duke Richmond, 6th Earl March, 6th Baron Settrington. Frances Harriett Greville Duchess Richmond (age 36) by marriage Duchess Richmond.
On 21st October 1861 Philip Burne-Jones 2nd Baronet was born to Edward Coley Burne-Jones 1st Baronet (age 28) and Georgiana Macdonald Lady Burne-Jones (age 21). He was baptised at Manchester Cathedral [Map] with his godfathers, by proxy, being John Ruskin (age 42) and Dante Gabriel Rossetti (age 33). See Memorials of Edward Burne-Jones.
After 21st October 1887. Memorial at St Andrew's Church, Kimbolton [Map] to Mary Agnes Welstead (deceased).
Mary Agnes Welstead: On 13th December 1834 he was born to Benjamin Welstead and Mary Rowley. On 21st October 1887 Mary Agnes Welstead died. She was buried at St Andrew's Church, Kimbolton [Map].
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 21st October 1905 William Henry Leigh 2nd Baron Leigh (age 81) died. His son Francis (age 50) succeeded 3rd Baron Leigh of Stoneleigh in Warwickshire. Frances Beckwith Baroness Leigh by marriage Baroness Leigh of Stoneleigh in Warwickshire.
Memorial at Church of the Virgin Mary, Stoneleigh [Map]. A particularly fine early twentieth century memorial. In Loving Memory of William Henry, 2nd Baron Leigh, for Forty-Nine Years Lord Lieutenant of Wancickshire born 17 January 1824, died 21 October 1905 and of Caroline Amelia (age 77) his wife, daughter of 2nd Marquess of Westminster born 14 June 1828 and died 24 March 1906.
The monument carries the heraldic arms of the family their motto Tout Vient de Dieu (Everything Comes from God) and in an especially lovely design of white and gold lilies around the Cross, are the words: LOVELY AND PLEASANT IN THEIR LIVES IN DEATH THEY WERE NOT DIVIDED
William Henry Leigh 2nd Baron Leigh: On 17th January 1824 he was born to Chandos Leigh 1st Baron Leigh and Margarette Willes Baroness Leigh. He was baptised at St Mary Magdalene's Church, Adlestrop, and for a second time, at Church of the Virgin Mary, Stoneleigh [Map] on 10th September 1824. He was educated at Harrow School then Trinity College, Cambridge University [Map]. On 22nd August 1848 William Henry Leigh 2nd Baron Leigh and Caroline Grosvenor were married. They had eight children. She the daughter of Richard Grosvenor 2nd Marquess Westminster and Elizabeth Mary Leveson-Gower Marchioness Westminster.
Frances Beckwith Baroness Leigh: On 29th November 1890 and she were married. On 28th April 1909 she died.
Caroline Amelia Grosvenor Baroness Leigh: On 14th June 1828 she was born to Richard Grosvenor 2nd Marquess Westminster and Elizabeth Mary Leveson-Gower Marchioness Westminster. She was baptised at St Mary's Church, Eccleston [Map] on 28th July 1828.
On 21st October 1907 George Frederick Bodley (age 80) died at Water Eaton, Oxfordshire. He was buried in the churchyard of St James' Church, Kinnersley [Map].
On 16th October 1909 Susan Harriet Innes-Kerr (age 71) died. Her funeral was held on 21st October 1909 at Prestonpans Parish Church. All Prestonpans shops and businesses were closed from midday as a mark of respect, with residents of the town lining the streets as her funeral cortege passed by. Her body was then conveyed on a special train service to Dunbar [Map] where she was buried. The pallbearers at Dunbar included her sons-in-law, Sir Neil Menzies (age 54), Bart-the second husband of her daughter Susan (age 50) and George Smith, her grandson Viscount Dalrymple (age 30), her nephew the Duke of Roxburghe (age 33), plus Lord Charles Innes Ker (age 66), Mr Robert Grant Suttie (age 67), Lord Montgomerie and Mr John Russel carried her coffin from the station to the churchyard. In 1911 a plaque to her memory was unveiled at Prestonpans Parish Church.
After 21st October 1917. All Saints Church, Old Rode. In Memory of 2nd Lieutenant Sydney Bowler killed in action aged twenty-seven
Extract From Sexey's School Magazine. Oct. 21st. 1917. – Lieut. S. Bowler, R.G.A. (a former member of the staff), killed by shell-fire. Aged 27. Literary and Debating Society. 4th December – Lecture by Mr Bowler. On the above date the School received a most excellent and instructive lecture on the "Geographical and historical Causes of the Present War." Mr Bowler made a rather difficult subject into one full of absorbing interest and gave everyone a very pleasant evening. He outlined the circumstances that plunged Europe into this titanic struggle in a way which showed that he had made a deep and scientific study of the whole affair. He concluded his lecture by a splendid description of Russia peasant life which being illustrated by lantern slides proved an even greater success, as very few knew anything of the social life of our great ally.
On 21st October 1947 David Allan Bethell 5th Baron Westbury (age 25) and Ursula James (age 23) were married at St Martin in the Fields Church [Map]. Princesses Elizabeth (age 21) and Margaret (age 17) attended the wedding, as did the Duke (age 47) and Duchess (age 45) of Gloucester.
On 21st October 1950 David Lascelles 8th Earl of Harewood was born to George Henry Hubert Lascelles 7th Earl Harewood (age 27) and Marion Stein Countess Harewood (age 24) at 2 Orme Square, Bayswater. He was baptised at All Saints Church Harewood [Map]. His godparents included Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom (age 24), Victoria Mary Teck Queen Consort England (age 83), Margaret Selina Lascelles Viscountess Boyne (age 67) and his uncle Gerald David Lascelles (age 26). He a great grandson of King George V of the United Kingdom.
After 21st October 2011. Hasting's Chapel, St Helen's Church, Ashby-de-la-Zouch [Map]. Monument to Moorea Hastings (deceased).
Moorea Hastings: On 4th March 1928 she was born to Francis Hastings 16th Earl Huntingdon and Cristina Casati Stampa di Soncino Countess Huntingdon. On 22nd June 1957 Woodrow Lyle Wyatt Baron Wyatt of Weeford and she were married They were divorced in 1966. She married again on 11th January 1967. She the daughter of Francis Hastings 16th Earl Huntingdon and Cristina Casati Stampa di Soncino Countess Huntingdon. On 11th January 1967 Brinsley Graham Black and she were married. She the daughter of Francis Hastings 16th Earl Huntingdon and Cristina Casati Stampa di Soncino Countess Huntingdon. On 21st October 2011 Moorea Hastings died.
On 21st October 1349 William Bardolf 4th Baron Bardolf was born to John Bardolf 3rd Baron Bardolf (age 35) and Elizabeth Damory Baroness Bardolf (age 31). He a great x 2 grandson of King Edward I of England. He married his half second cousin once removed Agnes Poynings Baroness Bardolf, daughter of Michael Poynings 1st Baron Poynings and Joan Rokesley Baroness Poynings, and had issue.
On 21st October 1449 George York 1st Duke of Clarence was born to Richard Plantagenet 3rd Duke of York (age 38) and Cecily "Rose of Raby" Neville Duchess York (age 34) at Dublin Castle, Dublin. He a great x 2 grandson of King Edward III of England. Coefficient of inbreeding 2.42%. He married 11th July 1469 his first cousin once removed Isabel Neville Duchess Clarence, daughter of Richard "Kingmaker" Neville Earl Warwick, 6th Earl Salisbury and Anne Beauchamp 16th Countess Warwick, and had issue.
On 21st October 1559 Catherine Knollys Baroness Offaly was born to Francis Knollys (age 47) and Catherine Carey (age 35). She married (1) October 1578 her sixth cousin Gerald Fitzgerald Baron Offaly, son of Gerald "Wizard Earl" Fitzgerald 11th Earl of Kildare and Mabel Browne Countess Kildare, and had issue (2) after June 1580 Philip Boteler and had issue.
On 21st October 1686 George Shirley was born to Robert Shirley 1st Earl Ferrers (age 36) and Elizabeth Washington Baroness Ferrers Chartley. He died aged seven in 1694.
On 21st October 1696 John Manners 3rd Duke Rutland was born to John Manners 2nd Duke Rutland (age 20) and Catherine Russell Duchess Rutland (age 20). He married before 1718 Bridget Sutton Duchess Rutland, daughter of Robert Sutton 2nd Baron Lexinton and Margaret Hungerford Baroness Lexington, and had issue.
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.
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On 21st October 1696 James Fitz James 2nd Duke Berwick was born to James Fitzjames 1st Duke Berwick (age 26) and Honora Burke Duchess Berwick (age 22) at Saint-Germain-en-Laye, Yvelines. He a grandson of King James II of England Scotland and Ireland. He married 31st December 1716 Catalina Ventura Colón Duchess Berwick 9th Duchess Veragua, daughter of Pedro Manuel Colón 7th Duke Veragua, and had issue.
On 21st October 1700 Elisabeth Charlotte Lorraine was born to Leopold Duke of Lorraine (age 21) and Élisabeth Charlotte Bourbon Duchess Lorraine (age 24). She a great x 3 granddaughter of King James I of England and Ireland and VI of Scotland. She died aged ten in 1711.
On 21st October 1712 Robert Sherard 4th Earl Harborough was born to Philip Sherard 2nd Earl Harborough (age 32) and Anne Pedley Countess Harborough (age 37). Some sources report his birth in 1719. He married 10th January 1797 Jane Reeve Countess Harborough.
On 21st October 1723 Francis Charteris de jure 7th Earl of Wemyss was born to James Wemyss 5th Earl of Wemyss (age 24) and Janet Charteris at Wemyss Castle. He married 12th September 1745 his fourth cousin Catherine Gordon Countess Wemyss, daughter of Alexander Gordon 2nd Duke Gordon and Henrietta Mordaunt Duchess Gordon, and had issue.
On 21st October 1726 William Knollys 6th Earl Banbury was born to Charles Knollys 5th Earl Banbury (age 23) and Martha Hughes (age 22).
On 21st October 1730 Peter Ludlow 1st Earl Ludlow was born to Peter Ludlow. He married Frances Lumley-Saunderson Countess Ludlow, daughter of Thomas Lumley-Saunderson 3rd Earl Scarborough and Frances Hamilton Countess Scarborough, and had issue.
On 21st October 1739 Wilbrahim Tollemache 6th Earl Dysart was born to Lionel Tollemache 4th Earl Dysart (age 31) and Grace Carteret Countess Dysart (age 26).
On 21st October 1744 Elizabeth Heathcote was born to Thomas Heathcote 2nd Baronet (age 23) and Elizabeth Hinton (age 20). She married 3rd December 1767 William Wyndham and had issue.
On 21st October 1765 Thomas Twysden was born to William Twysden 6th Baronet (age 35).
On 21st October 1767 Edmund Boyle 8th Earl Cork was born to Edmund Boyle 7th Earl Cork (age 24). He married 9th October 1795 Isabella Henrietta Poyntz Countess Cork and had issue.
On 21st October 1770 Henry Barry 8th Earl Barrymore was born to Richard Barry 6th Earl Barrymore (age 25) and Amelia Stanhope Countess Barrymore (age 21). He a great x 3 grandson of King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland.
On 21st October 1771 William Montagu 5th Duke Manchester was born to George Montagu 4th Duke Manchester (age 34) and Elizabeth Dashwood Duchess Manchester (age 31). He married 7th October 1793 Susan Gordon Duchess Manchester, daughter of Alexander Gordon 4th Duke Gordon and Jane Maxwell Duchess Gordon, and had issue.
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.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 21st October 1771 Charles Murray aka Aynesley-Murray was born to John Murray 3rd Duke Atholl (age 42) and Charlotte Murray Duchess Atholl (age 40). Coefficient of inbreeding 6.29%. He married 18th June 1793 Alicia Miford aka Mitford-Aynsley.
On 21st October 1771 Julia Judith Twisleton was born to Major-General Thomas Twisleton 7th or 13th Baron Saye and Sele (age 36) and Elizabeth Turner Baroness Saye and Sele. She married before 27th June 1791 her half first cousin once removed James Henry Leigh of Adlestrop and had issue.
On 21st October 1772 Samuel Taylor Coleridge was born to Reverend John Coleridge (age 53) and Anne Bowden (age 46). The youngest of ten children by his father's second wife.
On 21st October 1773 William Noel-Hill 3rd Baron Berwick was born to Noel Hill 1st Baron Berwick (age 28) and Anna Vernon (age 25).
On 21st October 1777 Ludwig Saxe Coburg Altenburg was born to Duke Ernest of Saxe Coburg Altenburg (age 32) and Charlotte Saxe Meiningen Duchess Saxe Gotha Altenburg (age 26) at Gotha. He died aged less than one years old.
On 21st October 1779 Mary Beauchamp-Proctor was born to Thomas Beauchamp-Proctor 2nd Baronet (age 23) and Mary Palmer Lady Beauchamp-Proctor (age 19). She married 5th May 1800 Reverend Henry Charles Hobart.
On 21st October 1785 Harriet Rochfort D'Oyly was born to John Hadley D'Oyly 6th Baronet (age 31) and Diana Rochfort Lady D'Oyly (age 30) at Calcutta, India. She married 6th March 1806 George Baring, son of Francis Baring 1st Baronet and Harriet Herring Lady Baring, and had issue.
On 21st October 1788 Philip Pleydell-Bouverie was born to Jacob Pleydell-Bouverie 2nd Earl Radnor (age 38) and Anne Duncombe Countess Radnor (age 30). He married 1811 Maria à Court, daughter of William Pierce Ashe à Court 1st Baronet and Laetitia Wyndham Lady à Court, and had issue.
On 21st October 1800 John Hayter was born to Charles Hayter (age 39).
On 21st October 1805 Albert Conygham aka Denison 1st Baron Londesborough was born to Henry Conyngham 1st Marquess Conyngham (age 38) and Elizabeth Denison Marchioness Conyngham (age 36). He married (1) 6th July 1833 Henrietta Maria Weld-Forester, daughter of Cecil Weld-Forester 1st Baron Forester and Katherine Mary Manners Baroness Forester, and had issue (2) 21st December 1847 Ursula Lucy Grace Bridgeman and had issue.
The True Chronicles of Jean le Bel Volume 1 Chapters 1-60 1307-1342
The True Chronicles of Jean le Bel offer one of the most vivid and immediate accounts of 14th-century Europe, written by a knight who lived through the events he describes, and experienced some of them first hand. Covering the early decades of the Hundred Years’ War, this remarkable chronicle follows the campaigns of Edward III of England, the politics of France and the Low Countries, and the shifting alliances that shaped medieval warfare. Unlike later historians, Jean le Bel writes with a strong sense of eyewitness authenticity, drawing on personal experience and the testimony of fellow soldiers. His narrative captures not only battles and sieges, but also the realities of military life, diplomacy, and the ideals of chivalry that governed noble society. A key source for Jean Froissart, Le Bel’s chronicle stands on its own as a compelling and insightful work, at once historical record and literary achievement. This translation builds on the 1905 edition published in French by Jules Viard, adding extensive translations from other sources Rymer's Fœdera, the Chronicles of Adam Murimuth, William Nangis, Walter of Guisborough, a Bourgeois of Valenciennes, Geoffrey le Baker of Swinbroke and Richard Lescot to enrich the original text and Viard's notes.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 21st October 1808 Charles Trollope was born to John Trollope 6th Baronet (age 42) and Anne Thorold.
On 21st October 1810 Charlotte Anderson-Pelham Lady Copley was born to Charles Anderson-Pelham 1st Earl Yarborough (age 29). She married 19th November 1831 Joseph William Copley 4th Baronet, son of Joseph Copley 3rd Baronet and Cecil Hamilton Marchioness Abercorn.
On 21st October 1821 Richard Sutton 4th Baronet was born to Richard Sutton 2nd Baronet (age 21).
On 21st October 1822 Mildred Arabella Charlotte Gascoyne-Cecil was born to James Brownlow William Gascoyne-Cecil 2nd Marquess Salisbury (age 31) and Frances Mary Gascoyne Marchioness Salisbury (age 16). She married 7th July 1842 Alexander James Beresford-Hope and had issue.
On 21st October 1834 Edward Crofton 3rd Baron Crofton was born to Edward Crofton 2nd Baron Crofton (age 28) and Georgina Paget Lady Crofton (age 34).
On 21st October 1834 Caroline Susan Augusta Barrington Countess Normanton was born to William Keppel Barrington 6th Viscount Barrington (age 41) and Jane Elizabeth Liddell Viscountess Barrington (age 30). She married 1868 her half fifth cousin James Charles Agar 3rd Earl Normanton, son of Welbore Ellis Agar 2nd Earl Normanton and Diana Herbert Countess Normanton, and had issue.
On 21st October 1835 Alan Stewart 10th Earl Galloway was born to Randolph Stewart 9th Earl Galloway (age 35) and Harriet Blanche Somerset Countess Galloway (age 24). Coefficient of inbreeding 1.58%. He married 1872 his third cousin once removed Mary Arabella Arthur Gascoyne-Cecil Countess Galloway, daughter of James Brownlow William Gascoyne-Cecil 2nd Marquess Salisbury and Mary Catherine Sackville-West Marchioness Salisbury.
On 21st October 1836 Ismay Louisa Ursula Bellew was born to Patrick Bellew 1st Baron Bellew (age 38) and Anna Fermina de Mendoza Baroness bellew.
On 21st October 1845 William Frederick Pitt-Rivers was born to George Pitt-Rivers 4th Baron Rivers (age 35) and Susan Georgiana Leveson-Gower Baroness Rivers (age 35).
On 21st October 1846 Edward Henry Trafalgar Digby 10th and 4th Baron Digby was born to Edward St Vincent Digby 9th and 3rd Baron Digby (age 40) and Theresa Anna Maria Fox-Strangways Baroness Digby (age 32). He was given the name Trafalgar to celebrate his paternal grand-father Admiral Henry Digby who fought at the Battle of Battle of Trafalgar.
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 21st October 1856 Major Paulyn Abney-Hastings was born to Charles Frederick Abney-Hastings 1st Baron Donington (age 34) and Edith Maud Rawdon-Hastings 10th Countess Loudon (age 22). He married 4th February 1880 Maud Grimston, daughter of James Walter Grimston 2nd Earl Verulam and Elizabeth Joanna Weyland Countess Verulam, and had issue.
On 21st October 1857 Clement Tyrwhitt was born to Henry Thomas Tyrwhitt-Jones 3rd Baronet (age 33) and Emma Harriet Wilson 12th Baroness Berners (age 21).
On 21st October 1861 Philip Burne-Jones 2nd Baronet was born to Edward Coley Burne-Jones 1st Baronet (age 28) and Georgiana Macdonald Lady Burne-Jones (age 21). He was baptised at Manchester Cathedral [Map] with his godfathers, by proxy, being John Ruskin (age 42) and Dante Gabriel Rossetti (age 33). See Memorials of Edward Burne-Jones.
On 21st October 1862 Wilfrid Lawson 3rd Baronet was born to Wilfrid Lawson 2nd Baronet (age 33) and Mary Pocklington Senhouse (age 22) at Brayton Hall, Aspatria. He married 28th April 1891 Mary Camilla Macan Lady Lawson.
On 21st October 1864 John Michael Fleetwood Fuller 1st Baronet was born to George Pargiter Fuller (age 31) and Emily Georgina Jane Hicks-Beach (age 18). He married 5th July 1898 Norah Jacintha Phipps Lady Fuller and had issue.
On 21st October 1887 Michael Guy Percival Willoughby 11th Baron Middleton was born to Godfrey Ernest Percival Willoughby 10th Baron Middleton (age 40).
On 21st October 1914 Marion Hester Cameron Lady Orr-Ewing was born to Donald Walter Cameron (age 37) and Hermione Emily Graham (age 32). She married 6th April 1938 Ronald Orr-Ewing 5th Baronet, son of Norman Archibald Orr-Ewing 4th Baronet and Laura Louisa Robarts, and had issue.
On 21st October 1930 Roger Ricardo Poore 7th Baronet was born to Nasionceno Poore (age 30).
On 21st October 1944 Frederic Strickland-Constable 12th Baronet was born to Robert Frederick-Strickland-Constable 11th Baronet (age 40).
On 21st October 1950 David Lascelles 8th Earl of Harewood was born to George Henry Hubert Lascelles 7th Earl Harewood (age 27) and Marion Stein Countess Harewood (age 24) at 2 Orme Square, Bayswater. He was baptised at All Saints Church Harewood [Map]. His godparents included Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom (age 24), Victoria Mary Teck Queen Consort England (age 83), Margaret Selina Lascelles Viscountess Boyne (age 67) and his uncle Gerald David Lascelles (age 26). He a great grandson of King George V of the United Kingdom.
On 21st October 1614 Francis Foljambe 1st Baronet (age 24) and Elizabeth Wray Lady Walton were married.
The True Chronicles of Jean le Bel Volume 1 Chapters 1-60 1307-1342
The True Chronicles of Jean le Bel offer one of the most vivid and immediate accounts of 14th-century Europe, written by a knight who lived through the events he describes, and experienced some of them first hand. Covering the early decades of the Hundred Years’ War, this remarkable chronicle follows the campaigns of Edward III of England, the politics of France and the Low Countries, and the shifting alliances that shaped medieval warfare. Unlike later historians, Jean le Bel writes with a strong sense of eyewitness authenticity, drawing on personal experience and the testimony of fellow soldiers. His narrative captures not only battles and sieges, but also the realities of military life, diplomacy, and the ideals of chivalry that governed noble society. A key source for Jean Froissart, Le Bel’s chronicle stands on its own as a compelling and insightful work, at once historical record and literary achievement. This translation builds on the 1905 edition published in French by Jules Viard, adding extensive translations from other sources Rymer's Fœdera, the Chronicles of Adam Murimuth, William Nangis, Walter of Guisborough, a Bourgeois of Valenciennes, Geoffrey le Baker of Swinbroke and Richard Lescot to enrich the original text and Viard's notes.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 21st October 1658 William Brereton 3rd Baron Brereton (age 27) and Frances Willoughby Baroness Brereton (age 33) were married at St Margaret Pattens. They were fourth cousins.
On 21st October 1674 Coplestone Bamfylde 2nd Baronet (age 36) and Jane Pole Lady Coplestone (age 20) were married at Houghton, Devon. She by marriage Lady Bampfylde of Poltimore in Devon.
On 21st October 1710 John Ashburnham 1st Earl Ashburnham (age 23) and Mary Butler Baroness Ashburnham were married. She by marriage Baroness Ashburnham of Ashburnham in Sussex. She the daughter of James Butler 2nd Duke Ormonde (age 45) and Mary Somerset Duchess Ormonde (age 46).
On 21st October 1729 Jermyn Davers 4th Baronet (age 43) and Margaretta Green were married.
On 21st October 1752 Charles Hotham-Thompson 8th Baronet (age 17) and Dorothy Hobart (age 27) were married. She the daughter of John Hobart 1st Earl Buckinghamshire (age 59) and Judith Britiffe.
On 21st October 1791 John Williams 1st Baronet (age 29) and Margaret Williams Lady Williams (age 23) were married.
On 21st October 1797 Duke Augustus of Saxe Coburg Altenburg (age 24) and Louise Charlotte Mecklenburg-Schwerin (age 17) were married. He the son of Duke Ernest of Saxe Coburg Altenburg (age 52) and Charlotte Saxe Meiningen Duchess Saxe Gotha Altenburg (age 46). They were second cousins.
On 21st October 1824 George Godolphin Osborne 8th Duke Leeds (age 22) and Harriet Emma Arundel Stewart (age 24) were married at the British Embassy, Paris. She the illegitmate daughter of Granville Leveson-Gower 1st Earl Granville (age 51) and Henrietta Frances Spencer Countess Bessborough. They were fourth cousins.
On 21st October 1843 Henry Richard Graves (age 25) and Henrietta Wellesley (age 27) were married.
On 21st October 1947 David Allan Bethell 5th Baron Westbury (age 25) and Ursula James (age 23) were married at St Martin in the Fields Church [Map]. Princesses Elizabeth (age 21) and Margaret (age 17) attended the wedding, as did the Duke (age 47) and Duchess (age 45) of Gloucester.
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 21st October 1964 Sheriden Frederick Terence Hamilton-Temple-Blackwood 5th Marquess of Dufferin and Ava (age 26) and Serena Belinda Rosemary Guinness Marchioness of Dufferin and Ava (age 23) were married at Westminster Abbey [Map]. She by marriage Marchioness of Dufferin and Ava. He the son of Basil Sheridan Hamilton-Temple-Blackwood 4th Marquess of Dufferin and Ava and Maureen Constance Guinness Marchioness of Dufferin and Ava (age 57). They were half fourth cousins.
On 21st October 1977 Alexander McDonnell 9th Earl of Antrim (age 42) and Elizabeth Hannah Sacher Countess of Antrim were married. She by marriage Countess Antrim 2C. He the son of Randal McDonnell 8th Earl of Antrim (deceased) and Angela Christina Sykes Countess of Antrim (age 66).
On 21st October 1994 Colin Campbell 7th Earl Cawdor (age 32) and Isabella Rachel Stanhope Countess Cawdor (age 28) were married at St Nicholas' Church, Adare. She by marriage Countess Cawdor of Castlemartin in Pembrokeshire. She the daughter of William Stanhope 11th Earl of Harrington (age 72) and Priscilla Margaret Cubitt Countess Harrington (age 53). He the son of Hugh Campbell 6th Earl Cawdor.
On 21st October 1995 Hugh Stanley 19th Earl of Derby (age 33) and Caroline Neville Countess of Derby (age 31) were married. She by marriage Countess Derby. They were sixth cousins.
On 21st October 1314 Geoffrey Geneville 1st Baron Geneville (age 88) died at Trim, County Meath. He was buried at Black Friary, Trim, County Meath. His granddaughter Joan (age 28) succeeded 2nd Baroness Geneville. She and her husband Roger Mortimer 1st Earl March (age 27) inherited the vast legacy of the de Lacy dynasty, including Ludlow Castle [Map].
On 21st October 1422 Charles "Beloved Mad" VI King France (age 53) died at Hôtel Saint Pol, Paris [Map]. The succession of the French throne was disputed between:
King Henry VI succeeded II King France: Lancaster
Charles "Victorious" VII King France (age 19) succeeded VII King France: Capet Valois. Marie Valois Anjou Queen Consort France (age 18) by marriage Queen Consort France.
On 21st October 1425 Ralph Neville 1st Earl of Westmoreland (age 61) died. He was buried at St Mary's Church, Staindrop [Map]. His grandson Ralph (age 19) succeeded 2nd Earl of Westmoreland. Elizabeth Percy Countess of Westmoreland (age 30) by marriage Countess of Westmoreland.
Monument to Ralph Neville 1st Earl of Westmoreland and his wives Margaret Stafford Baroness Neville Raby and Joan Beaufort Countess of Westmoreland (age 46). Early Plate Bascinet Period. Orle. Man with Two Wives.
Elizabeth Percy Countess of Westmoreland: Around 1395 she was born to Henry "Hotspur" Percy and Elizabeth Mortimer Baroness Camoys at Alnwick Castle, Northumberland [Map]. She a great x 2 granddaughter of King Edward III of England. Around 1404 John Clifford 7th Baron Clifford and she were married. She by marriage Baroness de Clifford. They were third cousin once removed. He a great x 4 grandson of King Edward I of England. She a great x 2 granddaughter of King Edward III of England. In 1426 Ralph Neville 2nd Earl of Westmoreland and she were married. They were second cousin once removed. He a great x 3 grandson of King Edward I of England. She a great x 2 granddaughter of King Edward III of England. On 26th October 1436 Elizabeth Percy Countess of Westmoreland died.
On 21st October 1494 Gian Galeazzo Sforza 6th Duke Milan (age 25) died. His uncle Ludovico (age 42) succeeded Duke Milan.
On 21st October 1538 Edward de Pomeroy 17th Baron Pomeroy (age 63) died. His son Thomas (age 35) succeeded 18th Baron Pomeroy Feudal.
On 21st October 1554 John Dudley 2nd Earl Warwick (age 27) died at Penshurst Place, Kent [Map] not long after he had been released from the Tower of London.
On 21st October 1670 Hugh Smithson 1st Baronet (age 72) died at his home in Tottenham High Cross. His son Jerome (age 38) succeeded 2nd Baronet Smithson of Stanwick in Yorkshire. He was buried in the Church of St John the Baptist, Stanwick, North Yorkshire [Map].
Monument to Hugh Smithson 1st Baronet and Dorothy Royston sculpted by William Stanton (age 31). Note the effigies appears to have been sourced differently since hers has no mottling.
Hugh Smithson 1st Baronet: Around 1598 he was born to Antony Smithson.
Jerome Smithson 2nd Baronet: In 1632 he was born to Hugh Smithson 1st Baronet. In 1684 Jerome Smithson 2nd Baronet died. His son Hugh succeeded 3rd Baronet Smithson of Stanwick in Yorkshire.
On 16th October 1701 James Reade 2nd Baronet (age 46) died of a fever. He was buried on 21st October 1701 in the Brocket Chapel at St Etheldreda's Church, Hatfield [Map]; see monument here [Map]. His son John (age 10) succeeded 3rd Baronet Reade of Brocket Hall in Hertfordshire.
On 21st October 1733 William Drake 6th Baronet (age 38) died without issue. Baronet Drake of Ashe in Devon extinct.
On 21st October 1739 William Montagu 2nd Duke Manchester (age 39) died. His brother Robert (age 29) succeeded 3rd Duke Manchester, 6th Earl Manchester, 6th Viscount Mandeville, 6th Baron Montagu of Kimbolton. Harriet Dunch Duchess Manchester by marriage Duchess Manchester.
On 21st October 1741 Stephen Anderson 2nd Baronet (age 63) died. His son Stephen (age 32) succeeded 3rd Baronet Anderson of Eyeworth in Bedfordshire.
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 21st October 1751 Richard Wingfield 1st Viscount Powerscourt (age 54) died. His son Edward (age 21) succeeded 2nd Viscount Powerscourt.
On 21st October 1757 Ferdinando Dudley Lea 11th Baron Dudley (age 47) died. Baron Dudley abeyant between his two sisters.
On 21st October 1775 François-Hubert Drouais (age 47) died.
On 21st October 1781 Vere Beauclerk 1st Baron de Vere (age 82) died. His son Aubrey (age 41) succeeded 2nd Baron Vere of Hanworth in Middlesex.
On 21st October 1805 Horatio Nelson 1st Viscount Nelson (age 47) was killed in action at the Battle of Trafalgar. Viscount Nelson of the Nile and Burnham Thorpe in Norfolk extinct. His brother William (age 48) succeeded 2nd Baron Nelson of the Nile and Hillborough in Norfolk.
On 21st October 1812 Heneage Finch 4th Earl Aylesford (age 61) died. His son Heneage (age 26) succeeded 5th Earl Aylesford.
On 21st October 1816 William Lygon 1st Earl Beauchamp (age 69) died at St James' Square. His son William (age 33) succeeded 2nd Earl Beauchamp, 2nd Viscount Elmley of Worcestershire, 2nd Baron Beauchamp Powick in Worcestershire.
On 21st October 1823 John William Egerton 7th Earl Bridgewater (age 70) died. He was buried in the Bridgewater Chapel, St Peter and St Paul Church, Little Gaddesden where he has a monumment sculpted by Richard Westmacott (age 48). His brother Francis (age 66) succeeded 8th Earl Bridgewater, 9th Viscount Brackley, 9th Baron Ellesmere.
John William Egerton 7th Earl Bridgewater: On 14th April 1753 he was born to Bishop John Egerton and Anne Sophia Grey. Coefficient of inbreeding 6.25%.
Francis Henry Egerton 8th Earl Bridgewater: On 11th November 1756 he was born to Bishop John Egerton and Anne Sophia Grey. Coefficient of inbreeding 6.25%. On 8th November 1781 Francis Henry Egerton 8th Earl Bridgewater was elected Fellow of the Royal Society. On 31st March 1791 Francis Henry Egerton 8th Earl Bridgewater was elected Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London.
On 21st October 1830 Algernon Percy 1st Earl Beverley (age 80) died. His son George (age 52) succeeded 2nd Earl Beverley.
On 21st October 1834 Edward Smith-Stanley 12th Earl of Derby (age 81) died. His son Edward (age 59) succeeded 13th Earl Derby, 7th Baronet Stanley of Bickerstaffe. Charlotte Margaret Hornby Countess Derby by marriage Countess Derby.
On 21st October 1841 Alexander Ramey Home 10th Earl of Home (age 71) died. His son Cospatrick (age 41) succeeded 11th Earl of Home. Lucy Elizabeth Montagu Scott Countess Home (age 36) by marriage Countess of Home.
On 21st October 1855 Henry Pierce Bone (age 75) died at 22 Percy Street, Bedford Square.
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 21st October 1860 Charles Gordon-Lennox 5th Duke Richmond (age 69) died. His son Charles (age 42) succeeded 6th Duke Richmond, 6th Earl March, 6th Baron Settrington. Frances Harriett Greville Duchess Richmond (age 36) by marriage Duchess Richmond.
On 21st October 1862 Mary Henrietta Juliana Osborne Countess Chichester (age 86) died.
On 21st October 1864 Richard Henry Rycroft 3rd Baronet (age 70) died. His son Nelson (age 33) succeeded 4th Baronet Rycroft of Calton in Yorkshire. Juliana Ogilvy Lady Rycroft by marriage Lady Rycroft of Calton in Yorkshire.
On 21st October 1864 Mary Bilson Legge Baroness Sherborne died.
On 21st October 1873 William Eden 6th and 4th Baronet (age 70) died. His son William (age 24) succeeded 5th Baronet Eden of Maryland, 7th Baronet Eden of West Auckland.
On 21st October 1893 Hussey Vivian 3rd Baron Vivian (age 59) died. His son George (age 15) succeeded 4th Baron Vivian of Glynn and Truro in Cornwall, 4th Baronet Vivian of Truro.
On 21st October 1903 George Gunning 5th Baronet (age 75) died. His son Frederick (age 49) succeeded 6th Baronet Gunning of Eltham in Kent.
On 21st October 1905 William Henry Leigh 2nd Baron Leigh (age 81) died. His son Francis (age 50) succeeded 3rd Baron Leigh of Stoneleigh in Warwickshire. Frances Beckwith Baroness Leigh by marriage Baroness Leigh of Stoneleigh in Warwickshire.
Memorial at Church of the Virgin Mary, Stoneleigh [Map]. A particularly fine early twentieth century memorial. In Loving Memory of William Henry, 2nd Baron Leigh, for Forty-Nine Years Lord Lieutenant of Wancickshire born 17 January 1824, died 21 October 1905 and of Caroline Amelia (age 77) his wife, daughter of 2nd Marquess of Westminster born 14 June 1828 and died 24 March 1906.
The monument carries the heraldic arms of the family their motto Tout Vient de Dieu (Everything Comes from God) and in an especially lovely design of white and gold lilies around the Cross, are the words: LOVELY AND PLEASANT IN THEIR LIVES IN DEATH THEY WERE NOT DIVIDED
William Henry Leigh 2nd Baron Leigh: On 17th January 1824 he was born to Chandos Leigh 1st Baron Leigh and Margarette Willes Baroness Leigh. He was baptised at St Mary Magdalene's Church, Adlestrop, and for a second time, at Church of the Virgin Mary, Stoneleigh [Map] on 10th September 1824. He was educated at Harrow School then Trinity College, Cambridge University [Map]. On 22nd August 1848 William Henry Leigh 2nd Baron Leigh and Caroline Grosvenor were married. They had eight children. She the daughter of Richard Grosvenor 2nd Marquess Westminster and Elizabeth Mary Leveson-Gower Marchioness Westminster.
Frances Beckwith Baroness Leigh: On 29th November 1890 and she were married. On 28th April 1909 she died.
Caroline Amelia Grosvenor Baroness Leigh: On 14th June 1828 she was born to Richard Grosvenor 2nd Marquess Westminster and Elizabeth Mary Leveson-Gower Marchioness Westminster. She was baptised at St Mary's Church, Eccleston [Map] on 28th July 1828.
On 21st October 1907 George Frederick Bodley (age 80) died at Water Eaton, Oxfordshire. He was buried in the churchyard of St James' Church, Kinnersley [Map].
On 16th October 1909 Susan Harriet Innes-Kerr (age 71) died. Her funeral was held on 21st October 1909 at Prestonpans Parish Church. All Prestonpans shops and businesses were closed from midday as a mark of respect, with residents of the town lining the streets as her funeral cortege passed by. Her body was then conveyed on a special train service to Dunbar [Map] where she was buried. The pallbearers at Dunbar included her sons-in-law, Sir Neil Menzies (age 54), Bart-the second husband of her daughter Susan (age 50) and George Smith, her grandson Viscount Dalrymple (age 30), her nephew the Duke of Roxburghe (age 33), plus Lord Charles Innes Ker (age 66), Mr Robert Grant Suttie (age 67), Lord Montgomerie and Mr John Russel carried her coffin from the station to the churchyard. In 1911 a plaque to her memory was unveiled at Prestonpans Parish Church.
On 21st October 1925 Thomas Lister 4th Baron Ribblesdale (age 70) died. Baron Ribblesdale of Gisburne Park in the West Riding of Yorkshire extinct.
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.
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On 21st October 1926 Susan Patricia Ramsay Lady Head died.
On 21st October 1934 Henry Palk Carew 9th Baronet (age 64) died. He was buried at St Blaise's Church, Haccombe. His son Thomas (age 44) succeeded 10th Baronet Carew of Haccombe in Devon. Phyllis Evelyn Mayman Lady Carew by marriage Lady Carew of Haccombe in Devon.
On 21st October 1966 Robert Godfrey Wolseley Bewicke-Copley 5th Baron Cromwell (age 73) died. His son David (age 37) succeeded 6th Baron Cromwell.
On 21st October 1968 Ivo Twisleton-Wykeham-Fiennes 14th or 20th Baron Saye and Sele (age 82) died. His son Nathaniel (age 48) succeeded 15th or 21st Baron Saye and Sele.
On 21st October 2015 William Murray 8th and 7th Earl Mansfield (age 85) died. His son Alexander (age 59) succeeded 9th Earl Mansfield in Middlesex, 8th Earl Mansfield in Nottinghamshire, 13th Viscount Stormont.
On 21st October 2016 Raine McCorquodale Countess Dartmouth and Spencer (age 87) died.