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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26 Jul is in July.
1309 Marriage of Piers Gaveston and Margaret de Clare
1461 Edward IV Rewards his Followers
24th July 1469 Battle of Edgecote Moor aka Danes Moor aka Banbury
1503 Margaret Tudor's Journey to Scotland
On 26th July 1139 Afonso "Conqueror Founder Great" I King Portugal (age 30) was appointed I King Portugal.
Chronicle of Walter of Guisborough. In the year of our Lord 1309, on the fifteenth day after Easter, the king held his parliament in London, and the magnates granted him twenty-five pence in return for his confirmation of Magna Carta and the Charter of the Forest, but they would not agree that Piers should remain Earl of Cornwall. Because of this, at the king's request, the magnates met again on the morrow [26th July 1309] of the Feast of Saint James the Apostle, at Stamford; and in the meantime the king had Piers marry the sister of the Earl of Gloucester1. Thus, by means of the king and the same earl whose sister he had married, some of the earls consented that Piers should remain earl for the term of his life.
Anno Domini MCCCIX in quindena Paschæ tenuit rex parliamentum suum Londoniis, et concesserunt sibi magnates XXV denarium pro confirmatione Magna Charta et Chartæ de Foresta, et noluerunt consentire regi ut Petrus remaneret comes Cornubiæ. Propter quod, ad rogatum regis, in crastino Sancti Jacobi apostoli convenerunt iterato magnates apud Stamfordiam, et interim fecit rex ipsum Petrum ducere in uxorem sororem comitis Gloucestriæ; et sic, mediante rege et ipso comite cujus sororem duxerat, consenserunt aliqui ex comitibus quod iste Petrus remaneret comes pro termino vitæ suæ.
Note 1. This lady was Margaret, niece of King Edward, being the daughter of Gilbert de Clare, seventh earl of Gloucester, and Joan of Acre, second daughter of Edward I. The marriage occurred in November 1307.
On 26th July 1346 the English army attacked and took Caen [Map] killing around 5000 French soldiers and militia. Otho Holland (age 30) fought.
Archaeologia Volume 35 1853 XXXIII. On the 26th [Jul 1358], Isabella (age 63) and her daughter the Queen of Scotland (age 37) spent the day at Almesho Park; and the following day at Madecroft Park.
On 26th July 1375 Richard Pembridge (age 55) died. Hereford Cathedral [Map]. Alabaster altar-tomb and effigy, altar-tomb with moulded base and capping, sides and ends panelled with alternate quatrefoils enclosing shields of his arms and trefoil-headed panels; effigy in bascinet, Camail and Jupon Period. His jupon with same arms as his shield. Hip Belt, Leg Garter, right leg modern, head on helm crested with a Feathered Crest, feet on hound.
On 26th July 1383 Isabella Valois Duchess Bourbon (age 70) died.
On 26th July 1450 Cecily Neville Duchess Warwick (age 26) died.
On 26th July 1461 William Hastings 1st Baron Hastings (age 30) was created 1st Baron Hastings for supporting King Edward IV of England (age 19) in his claim to the throne.
Robert Ogle 1st Baron Ogle (age 55) was created 1st Baron Ogle by King Edward IV of England for having been the principal Northumbrian gentleman to support the Yorkist cause.
On 26th July 1469 Richard Herbert (age 46) was executed following his capture at the Battle of Edgecote Moor.
Chronicle of Edward Hall [1496-1548]. 26th July 1469. The Northern men incamped themself on the Southe hill. The erle of Penbroke and the lorde Stafford of Southwike (age 30), wer lodged at Banbery the daie before the feld whiche was sainct James daie, and there the erle of Pembroke, putte the Lorde Stattorde out of an Inne wherein he delighted muche to be, for the loue of a damosell that dwelled in the house: contrary to their mutuall agrement by them taken, whiche was, that whosoever obteined first a lodgyng, should not be deceiued nor remoued. After many great woordes and crakes, had betwene these twoo capitaines, the lorde Stafford of Southwyke, in greate dispite departed with his whole compaignie and band of Archers, leauyng the erle of Pembroke almoste desolate in the toune, whiche, with all diligence returned to his host, liyng in the feld vnpurueied of Archers, abidyng suche fortune as God would sende and prouide. Sir Henry Neuell (deceased) sonne to the Lorde Latimer (age 62), tooke with hym certain light horssemen, and skirmished with the Welshemen in the evenyng, even before their Campe, where he did diverse valiaunt feates of armes, but a litle to hardy, he went so farre forward that he was taken and yelded, and yet cruelly slain: whiche vnmercifull acte, the Welshemen sore ruled the next daie or night. For the Northren men beyng inflamed, & not a litle discontented, with the death of this noble man, in the mornyng valiauntly set on the Welshemenne, and by force of archers, caused theim quickely to descende the hill into the valey, where bothe the hostes fought. Therle of Penbroke behaved hymself like a hardy knight, and expert capitain, but his brother sir Richarde Herbert so valiauntly acquited hymself, that with his Polleaxe in his hand (as his enemies did afterward reporte) he twise by fine force passed through the battaill of his aduersaries, and without any mortall wounde returned. If every one of his felowes and compaignions in armes, hud doen but halfe thactes, whiche he that daie by his noble prowes achiued, the Northremen had obteined neither sauetie nor victory.
After 26th July 1469. Grave marker of Henry Neville (deceased) at the Beauchamp Chapel, St Mary's Church, Warwick [Map] killed at the Battle of Edgecote.
After 26th July 1469. Grave marker of Oliver Dudley at the Beauchamp Chapel, St Mary's Church, Warwick [Map] killed at the Battle of Edgecote.
Oliver Dudley: he was born to John Sutton 1st Baron Dudley and Elizabeth Berkeley Baroness Cherleton Baroness Dudley.
After 26th July 1469 King Edward IV of England (age 27) was captured by his brother George (age 19) at Olney, Buckinghamshire [Map] after the Battle of Edgecote Moor.
Collectanea by John Leland [1502-1552]. [After 26th July 1469] King Edward taken by a Trayne at Uluay Village by fide Northampton by the Bisshop of York, and after brought to Warwike Caftel, and thens to York, wher, be fair Wordes and Promises, he escapid owt of the Bisshops Hand, and cam to London.
Collectanea by John Leland [1502-1552]. The XXVIth Day of the said Monneth [26th July 1503] the said Qwene departed from the said Place, after the Custome precedent, varey richly and in fayr Aray. And the sayd Mayr conveyd hyr out of the said Towne, and after tuke Lyve of hyr.
Haff a Mylle owt of the said Towne was Syr Hnmfrey Lyde and the Prior of Bryngburn, well apoynted and well horst, to the Nombre of XX Horsys. Their Folks arayd of their Liveray. And a Mylle from the said Towne was in Ordre the Scheryrfe of Northumberlaund, Syr Rawff Evers, in Company of many other Gentylmen, varey well appoynted, their Folks clothed in their Liveray, well monted. And with them wer many honests Folks of the Countre. with Spers and Bowes, in Jackets, to the Nombre of Two hondreth Horsys.
With the sam fayr Company was the said Qwene conveyd to Morpath [Map], and by the Towne passed in fayr Ordre, wher ther was much People; and so she went to the Abbay [Map], where sche was well receyved by th Abbot and Religyous revested, at the Gatt of the Church, with the Crosse. And after the Receyvyng she was conveyd to her Lodgyngs in the said Place for that sam Nyght.
Jean de Waurin's Chronicle of England Volume 6 Books 3-6: The Wars of the Roses
Jean de Waurin was a French Chronicler, from the Artois region, who was born around 1400, and died around 1474. Waurin’s Chronicle of England, Volume 6, covering the period 1450 to 1471, from which we have selected and translated Chapters relating to the Wars of the Roses, provides a vivid, original, contemporary description of key events some of which he witnessed first-hand, some of which he was told by the key people involved with whom Waurin had a personal relationship.
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On 26th July 1518 John Cotell was strangled by his wife Alice aka Agnes Cotell (age 33) at Farleigh Hungreford Castle [Map] with the aid of William Mathewe and William Inges, yeomen of Heytesbury, Wiltshire [Map]. He, John, was steward to Edward Hungerford who she subsequently married.
Henry Machyn's Diary. 26th July 1553. The xxix day of July was a felow s[et in the pillory] for spykyng agaynst the good qwen Mare (age 37).
Henry Machyn's Diary. 26th July 1553. The xxvj day of July cam unto the Towre my lord marqwes of Northamton (age 41), by and my lord Robart Dudley (age 21), and the bysshop of London (age 53), and ser Recherd Corbett; and after cam in to the Towre my lord cheyffe justes Chamley (age 58), the lord Montyguw (age 68), at v of the cloke at nyght.
Note. The lord Montague. The person intended by this designation was sir Edward Montague, who was lord chief justice of the common pleas, as sir Roger Cholmley was of the king's bench. The new queen appointed sir Richard Morgan and sir Thomas Bromley in their places.
On 26th July 1553 Friedrich Wittelsbach was born to Albert V Wittelsbach V Duke Bavaria (age 25) and Anna Habsburg Spain Duchess Bavaria (age 25). Coefficient of inbreeding 1.58%. He died aged less than one years old.
Henry Machyn's Diary. 26th July 1553. The sam day cam rydyng thrugh London my lade Elssabeth (age 19) grace, and thrugh Fletstrett, and so to my [lord of] Somersett('s) place that was, and yt ys my lade grasys [place; attended] with ij Ml. horse, with speres and bowes and gunes, and odur .... and spesyall sir John Wylliam, sir John Brygys, master Chamb[urlain,] all in gren gardyd with whytt welvett saten taffaty ...
Note. Arrival of the lady Elizabeth. In this passage read, "and odur [weapons,]" and add to it, "and cloth, according to their qualities." (Strype.) The "green garded with white" was then the royal livery.
Henry Machyn's Diary. 26th July 1559. The xxvj day of July cam tydynges in-to London the yonge Frenche kyng (age 15) has proclamyd ym-seyllff kyng of Skottland and England and Franse and (unfinished) .... and the morow a grett dener ... chylderyn of the hospetalle, and a-for and after .... unyalles, and ther was a goodly compene of ....
On 26th July 1574 August Oldenburg was born to John "Younger" Oldenburg Duke Schleswig Holstein Sonderburg (age 29) and Elisabeth of Brunswick-Grubenhagen (age 24).
On 26th July 1575 the English forces killed more than six hundred Scots and Irish men, women and children. The entire family of Sorley Boy MacDonnell were killed.
After 26th July 1575 Walter Devereux 1st Earl Essex (age 33) wrote to Francis Walsingham (age 43) that Sorley Boy MacDonnell watched the massacre from the mainland helplessly and was "like to run mad from sorrow".
On 26th July 1588 Thomas Howard 1st Earl Suffolk (age 26) was knighted by Admiral Lord Howard of Effingham on the Ark Royal.
On 26th July 1588 Roger Townshend (age 44) was knighted.
On 26th July 1594 Richard Shireburn (age 72) died. He was buried in Church of All Hallows, Great Mitton [Map]. Monument sculpted by Richard and Gabriel Royley of Burton-upon-Trent. Bongrace. Unicorn Pendant. Ruff. Dogs chewing at her dress. Dress Folds at Feet. Chunky Lions Mane. Chest with Weepers holding Shields. Dogs chewing at her dress with Studded Collar.
On 25th July 1603 King James I of England and Ireland and VI of Scotland (age 37) was crowned I King England Scotland and Ireland at Westminster Abbey [Map].
Charles Howard 1st Earl Nottingham (age 67) was appointed Lord High Steward.
On 26th July 1603 Thomas Bennett (age 60) and Thomas Cambell (age 67) were knighted.
On 27th July 1603 William Wrey 1st Baronet was knighted at Whitehall Palace [Map].
On 30th July 1603 Richard Preston 1st Earl Desmond was knighted at Whitehall Palace [Map].
Bishop Thomas Bilson (age 56) gave the sermon. While the wording conceded something to the divine right of kings, it also included a caveat about lawful resistance to a monarch.
The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy
The Gesta Normannorum Ducum [The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy] is a landmark medieval chronicle tracing the rise and fall of the Norman dynasty from its early roots through the pivotal events surrounding the Norman Conquest of England. Originally penned in Latin by the monk William of Jumièges shortly before 1060 and later expanded at the behest of William the Conqueror, the work chronicles the deeds, politics, battles, and leadership of the Norman dukes, especially William’s own claim to the English throne. The narrative combines earlier historical sources with firsthand information and oral testimony to present an authoritative account of Normandy’s transformation from a Viking settlement into one of medieval Europe’s most powerful realms. William’s history emphasizes the legitimacy, military prowess, and governance of the Norman line, framing their expansion, including the conquest of England, as both divinely sanctioned and noble in purpose. Later chroniclers such as Orderic Vitalis and Robert of Torigni continued the history, extending the coverage into the 12th century, providing broader context on ducal rule and its impact. Today this classic work remains a foundational source for understanding Norman identity, medieval statesmanship, and the historical forces that reshaped England and Western Europe between 800AD and 1100AD.
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On 26th July 1606 Richard Cave (age 19) died. Monument at St Nicholas' Church, Stanford-on-Avon [Map] next to that of his parents who he predeceased.
Richard Cave: Around 1587 he was born to Thomas Cave and Eleanor St John.
On 26th July 1630 Charles Emmanuel Savoy I Duke Savoy (age 68) died.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 26th July 1660. Early to White Hall, thinking to have a meeting of my Lord and the principal officers, but my Lord could not, it being the day that he was to go and be admitted in the House of Lords, his patent being done, which he presented upon his knees to the Speaker; and so it was read in the House, and he took his place. I at the Privy Seal Office with Mr. Hooker, who brought me acquainted with Mr. Crofts of the Signet, and I invited them to a dish of meat at the Leg in King Street, and so we dined there and I paid for all and had very good light given me as to my employment there. Afterwards to Mr. Pierces, where I should have dined but I could not, but found Mr. Sheply and W. Howe there. After we had drunk hard we parted, and I went away and met Dr. Castle, who is one of the Clerks of the Privy Seal, and told him how things were with my Lord and me, which he received very gladly. I was this day told how Baron against all expectation and law has got the place of Bickerstaffe, and so I question whether he will not lay claim to wait the next month, but my Lord tells me that he will stand for it. In the evening I met with T. Doling, who carried me to St. James's Fair1, and there meeting with W. Symons and his wife, and Luellin, and D. Scobell's wife and cousin, we went to Wood's at the Pell Mell2 (our old house for clubbing), and there we spent till 10 at night, at which time I sent to my Lord's for my clerk Will to come to me, and so by link home to bed. Where I found Commissioner Willoughby had sent for all his things away out of my bedchamber, which is a little disappointment, but it is better than pay too dear for them.
Note 1. August, 1661: "This year the Fair, called St. James's Fair, was kept the full appointed time, being a fortnight; but during that time many lewd and infamous persons were by his Majesty's express command to the Lord Chamberlain (age 58), and his Lordship's direction to Robert Nelson, Esq., committed to the House of Correction".-Rugge's Diurnal. St; James's fair was held first in the open space near St. James's Palace, and afterwards in St. James's Market. It was prohibited by the Parliament in 1651, but revived at the Restoration. It was, however, finally suppressed before the close of the reign of Charles II.
Note 2. This is one of the earliest references to Pall Mall as an inhabited street, and also one of the earliest uses of the word clubbing.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 26th July 1662. Thence to Mrs. Sarah, and there looked over my Lord's lodgings, which are very pretty; and White Hall garden and the Bowling-ally (where lords and ladies are now at bowles), in brave condition. Mrs. Sarah told me how the falling out between my Baroness Castlemaine's (age 21) and her Lord was about christening of the child lately1, which he would have, and had done by a priest: and, some days after, she had it again christened by a minister; the King (age 32), and Lord of Oxford, and Duchesse of Suffolk, being witnesses: and christened with a proviso, that it had not already been christened. Since that she left her Lord, carrying away every thing in the house; so much as every dish, and cloth, and servant but the porter. He is gone discontented into France, they say, to enter a monastery; and now she is coming back again to her house in Kingstreet. But I hear that the Queen (age 23) did prick her out of the list presented her by the King;2 desiring that she might have that favour done her, or that he would send her from whence she come: and that the King was angry and the Queen discontented a whole day and night upon it; but that the King hath promised to have nothing to do with her hereafter. But I cannot believe that the King can fling her off so, he loving her too well: and so I writ this night to my Lady to be my opinion; she calling her my lady, and the lady I admire. Here I find that my Lord hath lost the garden to his lodgings, and that it is turning into a tennis-court. Hence by water to the Wardrobe to see how all do there, and so home to supper and to bed.
Note 1. The boy was born in June at Baroness Castlemaine's house in King Street. By the direction of Lord Castlemaine, who had become a Roman Catholic, the child was baptized by a priest, and this led to a final separation between husband and wife. Some days afterwards the child was again baptized by the rector of St. Margaret's, Westminster [Map], in presence of the godparents, the King, Aubrey De Vere (age 35), Earl of Oxford, and Barbara, Countess of Suffolk (age 40), first Lady of the Bedchamber to the Queen and Baroness Castlemaine's aunt. The entry in the register of St. Margaret's [Map] is as follows: "1662 June 18 Charles Palmer Ld Limbricke, s. to ye right honorble Roger Earl of Castlemaine by Barbara" (Steinman's "Memoir of Barbara, Duchess of Cleveland", 1871, p. 33). The child was afterwards called Charles Fitzroy, and was created Duke of Southampton in 1674. He succeeded his mother in the dukedom of Cleveland in 1709, and died 1730.
Note 2. By the King's command Lord Clarendon (age 54), much against his inclination, had twice visited his royal mistress with a view of inducing her, by persuasions which he could not justify, to give way to the King's determination to have Baroness Castlemaine's of her household.... Lord Clarendon has given a full account of all that transpired between himself, the King and the Queen, on this very unpleasant business ('Continuation of Life of Clarendon,' 1759, ff. 168-178). Steinman's Memoir of Duchess of Cleveland, p. 35. The day at length arrived when Baroness Castlemaine's was to be formally admitted a Lady of the Bedchamber. The royal warrant, addressed to the Lord Chamberlain (age 61), bears date June 1, 1663, and includes with that of her ladyship, the names of the Duchess of Buckingham (age 24), the Countesses of Chesterfield and Bath (age 22), and the Countess Mareshall. A separate warrant of the same day directs his lordship to admit the Countess of Suffolk as Groom of the Stole and first Lady of the Bedchamber, to which undividable offices she had, with the additional ones of Mistress of the Robes and Keeper of the Privy Purse, been nominated by a warrant dated April 2, 1662, wherein the reception of her oath is expressly deferred until the Queen's household shall be established. We here are furnished with the evidence that Charles would not sign the warrants for the five until Catherine had withdrawn her objection to his favourite one. Addenda to Steinman's Memoir of Duchess of Cleveland (privately printed), 1874, p. i.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 26th July 1665. The Duke of Monmouth (age 16) is the most skittish leaping gallant that ever I saw, always in action, vaulting or leaping, or clambering.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 26th July 1665. Thence mighty full of the honour of this day, I took coach and to Kate Joyce's, but she not within, but spoke with Anthony, who tells me he likes well of my proposal for Pall to Harman (age 28), but I fear that less than £500 will not be taken, and that I shall not be able to give, though I did not say so to him. After a little other discourse and the sad news of the death of so many in the parish of the plague, forty last night, the bell always going, I back to the Exchange [Map], where I went up and sat talking with my beauty, Mrs. Batelier, a great while, who is indeed one of the finest women I ever saw in my life. After buying some small matter, I home, and there to the office and saw Sir J. Minnes (age 66) now come from Portsmouth, Hampshire [Map], I home to set my Journall for these four days in order, they being four days of as great content and honour and pleasure to me as ever I hope to live or desire, or think any body else can live. For methinks if a man would but reflect upon this, and think that all these things are ordered by God Almighty to make me contented, and even this very marriage now on foot is one of the things intended to find me content in, in my life and matter of mirth, methinks it should make one mightily more satisfied in the world than he is. This day poor Robin Shaw at Backewell's died, and Backewell himself now in Flanders. The King (age 35) himself asked about Shaw, and being told he was dead, said he was very sorry for it. The sicknesse is got into our parish this week, and is got, indeed, every where; so that I begin to think of setting things in order, which I pray God enable me to put both as to soul and body.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 26th July 1665. Up, and after doing a little business, down to Deptford, Kent [Map] with Sir W. Batten (age 64), and there left him, and I to Greenwich, Kent [Map] to the Park, where I hear the King (age 35) and Duke (age 31) are come by water this morn from Hampton Court [Map]. They asked me several questions. The King mightily pleased with his new buildings there. I followed them to Castle's (age 36) ship in building, and there, met Sir W. Batten, and thence to Sir G. Carteret's (age 55), where all the morning with them; they not having any but the Duke of Monmouth (age 16), and Sir W. Killigrew (age 59), and one gentleman, and a page more. Great variety of talk, and was often led to speak to the King and Duke.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 26th July 1666. At noon dined at home: Mr. Hunt and his wife, who is very gallant, and newly come from Cambridge, because of the sicknesse, with us. Very merry at table, and the people I do love mightily, but being in haste to go to White Hall I rose, and Mr. Hunt with me, and by coach thither, where I left him in the boarded gallery, and I by appointment to attend the Duke of Yorke (age 32) at his closett, but being not come, Sir G. Carteret (age 56) and I did talke together, and (he) advises me, that, if I could, I would get the papers of examination touching the business of the last year's prizes, which concern my Lord Sandwich (age 40), out of Warcupp's hands, who being now under disgrace and poor, he believes may be brought easily to part with them. My Lord Crew (age 68), it seems, is fearfull yet that maters may be enquired into. This I will endeavour to do, though I do not thinke it signifies much.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 26th July 1666. Thence with my wife and Mercer to my Chancellor's (age 57) new house, and there carried them up to the leads, where I find my Lord Camberlain, Lauderdale, Sir Robert Murray (age 58), and others, and do find it the most delightfull place for prospect that ever was in the world, and even ravishing me, and that is all, in short, I can say of it.
On 26th July 1678 Joseph I Holy Roman Emperor was born to Leopold Habsburg Spain I Holy Roman Emperor (age 38) and Eleonore Magdalene of Neuburg (age 23). He married 24th February 1699 his half second cousin once removed Wilhelmine Amalie of Brunswick and had issue.
John Evelyn's Diary. 26th July 1680. My most noble and illustrious friend, the Earl of Ossory (age 46), espying me this morning after sermon in the privy gallery, calling to me, told me he was now going his journey (meaning to Tangier [Map], whither he was designed Governor, and General of the forces, to regain the losses we had lately sustained from the Moors, when Inchiquin (age 40) was Governor). I asked if he would not call at my house (as he always did whenever he went out of England on any exploit). He said he must embark at Portsmouth, Hampshire [Map], "wherefore let you and me dine together to-day; I am quite alone, and have something to impart to you; I am not well, shall be private, and desire your company"..
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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John Evelyn's Diary. 26th July 1680. Being retired to his lodgings, and set down on a couch, he sent to his secretary for the copy of a letter which he had written to Lord Sunderland (age 38) (Secretary of State), wishing me to read it; it was to take notice how ill he resented it, that he should tell the King (age 50) before Lord Ossory's (age 46) face, that Tangier [Map] was not to be kept, but would certainly be lost, and yet added that it was fit Lord Ossory should be sent, that they might give some account of it to the world, meaning (as supposed) the next Parliament, when all such miscarriages would probably be examined; this Lord Ossory took very ill of Lord Sunderland, and not kindly of the King, who resolving to send him with an incompetent force, seemed, as his Lordship took it, to be willing to cast him away, not only on a hazardous adventure, but in most men's opinion, an impossibility, seeing there was not to be above 300 or 400 horse, and 4,000 foot for the garrison and all, both to defend the town, form a camp, repulse the enemy, and fortify what ground they should get in. This touched my Lord deeply, that he should be so little considered as to put him on a business in which he should probably not only lose his reputation, but be charged with all the miscarriage and ill success; whereas, at first they promised 6,000 foot and 600 horse effective.
John Evelyn's Diary. 26th July 1680. His Majesty (age 50) never lost a worthier subject, nor father a better or more dutiful son; a loving, generous, good-natured, and perfectly obliging friend; one who had done innumerable kindnesses to several before they knew it; nor did he ever advance any that were not worthy; no one more brave, more modest; none more humble, sober, and every way virtuous. Unhappy England in this illustrious person's loss! Universal was the mourning for him, and the eulogies on him; I stayed night and day by his bedside to his last gasp, to close his dear eyes! O sad father, mother, wife, and children! What shall I add? He deserved all that a sincere friend, a brave soldier, a virtuous courtier, a loyal subject, an honest man, a bountiful master, and good Christian, could deserve of his prince and country. One thing more let me note, that he often expressed to me the abhorrence he had of that base and unworthy action which he was put upon, of engaging the Smyrna fleet in time of peace, in which though he behaved himself like a great captain, yet he told me it was the only blot in his life, and troubled him exceedingly. Though he was commanded, and never examined further when he was so, yet he always spoke of it with regret and detestation. The Countess (age 45) was at the seat of her daughter, the Countess of Derby (age 20), about 200 miles off.
John Evelyn's Diary. 26th July 1680. My Lord (age 46), being an exceedingly brave and valiant person, and who had so approved himself in divers signal battles, both at sea and land; so beloved and so esteemed by the people, as one they depended on, upon all occasions worthy of such a captain;-he looked on this as too great an indifference in his Majesty (age 50), after all his services, and the merits of his father, the Duke of Ormond (age 69), and a design of some who envied his virtue. It certainly took so deep root in his mind, that he who was the most void of fear in the world (and assured me he would go to Tangier [Map] with ten men if his Majesty commanded him) could not bear up against this unkindness. Having disburdened himself of this to me after dinner, he went with his Majesty to the sheriffs at a great supper in Fishmongers' Hall; but finding himself ill, took his leave immediately of his Majesty, and came back to his lodging. Not resting well this night, he was persuaded to remove to Arlington House, for better accommodation. His disorder turned to a malignant fever, which increasing, after all that six of the most able physicians could do, he became delirious, with intervals of sense, during which Dr. Lloyd (age 52) (after Bishop of St. Asaph) administered the Holy Sacrament, of which I also participated. He died the Friday following, the 30th of July, to the universal grief of all that knew or heard of his great worth, nor had any a greater loss than myself. Oft would he say I was the oldest acquaintance he had in England (when his father was in Ireland), it being now of about thirty years, contracted abroad, when he rode in the Academy in Paris, and when we were seldom asunder.
On 26th July 1681 John Leslie 1st Duke Rothes (age 51) died. Duke Rothes extinct. His daughter Margaret succeeded Countess Rothes.
John Evelyn's Diary. 26th July 1684. I return'd home where I found my Lord Cheife Justice [Jefferies] (age 39), the Countesse of Clarendon, and Lady Cath. Fitz-Gerald, who dined with me.
John Evelyn's Diary. 26th July 1688. I went to Lambeth to visit the Archbishop (age 71), whom I found very cheerful.
On 26th July 1691 Henry Cavendish 2nd Duke Newcastle upon Tyne (age 61) died at Welbeck Abbey, Nottinghamshire [Map]. Duke Newcastle upon Tyne, Earl Newcastle upon Tyne extinct. Baron Ogle abeyant.
John Evelyn's Diary. 26th July 1692. I went to visit the Bishop of Lincoln (age 55), when, among other things, he told me that one Dr. Chaplin, of University College in Oxford, was the person who wrote the "Whole Duty of Man"; that he used to read it to his pupil, and communicated it to Dr. Sterne, afterward Archbishop of York, but would never suffer any of his pupils to have a copy of it.
On 26th July 1712 George Brudenell aka Montagu 1st Duke Montagu was born to George Brudenell 3rd Earl Cardigan (age 26) and Elizabeth Bruce 3rd Countess Cardigan (age 23) at Cardigan House Lincoln's Inn Fields. He married 7th July 1730 his fourth cousin once removed Mary Montagu Duchess of Montagu, daughter of John Montagu 2nd Duke Montagu and Mary Churchill Duchess of Montagu, and had issue.
On 26th July 1712 Thomas Osborne 1st Duke Leeds (age 80) died. His son Peregrine (age 53) succeeded 2nd Duke Leeds, 2nd Earl of Danby, 2nd Viscount Osborne, 2nd Viscount Latimer, 2nd Baron Osborne of Kinderton, 3rd Baronet Osborne of Kiveton. Bridget Hyde Duchess Leeds (age 50) by marriage Duchess Leeds.
After 26th July 1712. Monument to Thomas Osborne 1st Duke Leeds (deceased) in the Osborne Family Chapel at All Hallows' Church Harthill [Map]. Sad state of repair as is the case with most of the East Markham monuments.
On 26th July 1723 Robert Bertie 1st Duke Ancaster and Kesteven (age 62) died. His son Peregrine (age 37) succeeded 2nd Duke Ancaster and Kesteven, 2nd Marquess Lindsay, 5th Earl Lindsey, 18th Baron Willoughby de Eresby. Jane Brownlow Duchess Ancaster and Kesteven by marriage Duchess Ancaster and Kesteven.
After 26th July 1723. Church of St Michael and All Angels, Edenham [Map]. Monument to Robert Bertie 1st Duke Ancaster and Kesteven (deceased) sculpted by Peter Scheemakers (age 32) and Henry Cheere 1st Baronet (age 20). A Classical Period with Corinthian Capitals supporting open dentilated pediment with garland, urns and putti. Before the Aedicule a rounded Pedestal supports a marble image of the deceased attired as a Roman General.
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 26th July 1734 Ann Mosley (age 69) died. She was buried at St James' Church, Didsbury [Map].
Ann Mosley: Around 28th August 1664 she was born to Edward Mosley and Meriell Saltonstall. On 31st March 1685 John Bland 4th Baronet and she were married at St James' Church, Didsbury [Map]. On 18th May 1709 Ann Mosley laid the foundation stone of St Ann's Church, Manchester [Map]. She had provided funds for its construction. On 17th July 1712, the St Ann's Church, Manchester [Map] was consecrated by the Bishop of Chester and was dedicated to Saint Anne, the Virgin Mary's mother, which was a compliment both to the founder Ann Mosley, and to the reigning monarch, Queen Anne.
On 26th July 1738 James Fitz James 3rd Duke Berwick 10th Duke Veragua (age 19) and Maria Teresa Silva Duchess Berwick and Veragua (age 22) were married. She by marriage Duchess Berwick. He the son of James Fitz James 2nd Duke Berwick and Catalina Ventura Colón Duchess Berwick 9th Duchess Veragua (age 48).
On 26th July 1739 Margaret Cavendish-Bentinck was born to William Bentinck 2nd Duke Portland (age 30) and Margaret Cavendish Harley 2nd Duchess Portland (age 24) at Welbeck Abbey, Nottinghamshire [Map].
On 26th July 1749 John Warwick Smith was born. He married on or after 6th February 1783 Elizabeth Gerrard.
On 26th July 1789 Jane Loraine (age 81) died. She was buried at St Wilfrid's Church, Kirkharle [Map].
Jane Loraine: Around 1708 she was born to William Loraine 2nd Baronet and Anne Smith Lady Loraine. On 23rd April 1743 John Brown and she were married at St Andrew's Church, Hartburn [Map].
Creevey Papers. Henry Brougham, M.P., to Mr. Creevey (at Cantley1) 26th July [1821].
Dear C,
The Queen (age 53) certainly goes to Scotland. . I should not wonder if she were to go thro' the manufacturing districts. Possibly Birmingham (where the K. refused to go) may be in her way. It is on the cards that she should be found in the W. Riding and in Lancashire. For aught I know H. M. may then pass across towards Durham and Newcastle. Indeed the great towns are peculiarly interesting to a person of her contemplative cast. One whose mind is improved by foreign travel naturally loves tracts of country where the population is much crowded, and it is worthy of H. M.'s enlightened mind to patronise the ingenuous artizan. The coal trade, too, is highly interesting. I only hope she may not call at Howick on her way .... The time of her setting out is not fixed, depending naturally upon her beloved husband's motions .... The Chamberlain's place is not yet given away. The Ministers are believed to have resolved to bear this no longer, and to have agreed on a remonstrance to the K. about the Green Ribbons2. He will, of course, say something civil that means little — make some promise that means less — let them name to one place, name to the other himself— and so settle matters as to enable him to go over to Ireland .... The Queen has lost incalculably by getting out of her carnage and tramping about; going and being refused, and damaging the Coronation, was all very well, but the way of doing it was very bad ...."
Note 1. Michael Angelo Taylor's place in Yorkshire,
Note 2. The King had been creating Knights of the Thistle without taking the advice of his Ministers.
On 26th July 1845 Elizabeth Howard (age 42) died. She was buried in the Saint Mary Magdalene's Church, Sherborne [Map]. Monument sculpted by William "The Younger" Theed (age 41).
Elizabeth Howard: In 1803 she was born to Thomas Howard 16th Earl Suffolk 9th Earl Berkshire and Elizabeth Jane Dutton Countess Suffolk and Berkshire. On 22nd June 1826 James Henry Legge Dutton 3rd Baron Sherborne and she were married. She the daughter of Thomas Howard 16th Earl Suffolk 9th Earl Berkshire and Elizabeth Jane Dutton Countess Suffolk and Berkshire. They were first cousins.
After 26th July 1856. Monument to Lucy Cust in St Peter and St Paul Church, Belton [Map].
On 26th July 1859 Mabel Alice Chandos-Pole (age 1) died. She was buried at St Andrew's Church, Radbourne [Map].
Mabel Alice Chandos-Pole: On 24th June 1858 she was born to Henry Chandos-Pole-Gell and Henrietta Auriol Drummond-Hay.
On 26th July 1870 Ignacio Zuloaga was born.
On 26th July 1919 Edward Poynter 1st Baronet (age 83) died. His son Ambrose (age 51) succeeded 2nd Baronet Poynter of Albert Gate in Westminster in London.
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 26th July 1928 Archbishop Cosmo Gordon Lang (age 63) was appointed Archbishop of Canterbury.
On 26th July 1963 John Francis Godolphin Osborne 11th Duke Leeds (age 62) died without male issue. His second cousin once removed Francis (age 78) succeeded 12th Duke Leeds, 12th Earl of Danby, 12th Viscount Osborne, 12th Viscount Latimer, 12th Baron Osborne of Kinderton, 13th Baronet Osborne of Kiveton, 6th Baron Godolphin of Farnham Royal in Buckinghamshire.
On 26th July 1224 John Courtenay 2nd Baron Okehampton was born to Robert Courtenay 1st Baron Okehampton (age 54) and Mary Vernon Redvers Baroness Okehampton (age 28). He a great x 3 grandson of King Henry I "Beauclerc" England. He married before 25th March 1249 his fourth cousin Isabel Vere Baroness Okehampton, daughter of Hugh de Vere 4th Earl of Oxford and Hawise Quincy Countess Oxford, and had issue.
On 26th July 1400 Isabel Despencer Countess Warwick and Worcester was born to Thomas Despencer 1st Earl Gloucester and Constance York Countess Gloucester (age 26) some six months after her father had been beheaded during the Epiphany Rising. She a great granddaughter of King Edward III of England. She married (1) 27th July 1411 her half fourth cousin Richard Beauchamp 1st Earl of Worcester, son of William Beauchamp 1st Baron Abergavenny and Joan Fitzalan Baroness Bergavenny, and had issue (2) before 1425 her third cousin Richard Beauchamp 13th Earl Warwick, son of Thomas Beauchamp 12th Earl Warwick and Margaret Ferrers Countess Warwick, and had issue.
On 26th July 1553 Friedrich Wittelsbach was born to Albert V Wittelsbach V Duke Bavaria (age 25) and Anna Habsburg Spain Duchess Bavaria (age 25). Coefficient of inbreeding 1.58%. He died aged less than one years old.
On 26th July 1574 August Oldenburg was born to John "Younger" Oldenburg Duke Schleswig Holstein Sonderburg (age 29) and Elisabeth of Brunswick-Grubenhagen (age 24).
On 26th July 1629 John Ferrers was born to Humphrey Ferrers and Anne Pakington (age 30) at Tamworth, Staffordshire [Map]. He married 1649 Anne Carlton and had issue.
On 26th July 1678 Joseph I Holy Roman Emperor was born to Leopold Habsburg Spain I Holy Roman Emperor (age 38) and Eleonore Magdalene of Neuburg (age 23). He married 24th February 1699 his half second cousin once removed Wilhelmine Amalie of Brunswick and had issue.
On 26th July 1691 John Trelawny 4th Baronet was born to Bishop Jonathan Trelawny 3rd Baronet (age 41) and Rebecca Hele Lady Trelawny. He married before 2nd February 1756 Agnes Blackwood.
On 26th July 1712 George Brudenell aka Montagu 1st Duke Montagu was born to George Brudenell 3rd Earl Cardigan (age 26) and Elizabeth Bruce 3rd Countess Cardigan (age 23) at Cardigan House Lincoln's Inn Fields. He married 7th July 1730 his fourth cousin once removed Mary Montagu Duchess of Montagu, daughter of John Montagu 2nd Duke Montagu and Mary Churchill Duchess of Montagu, and had issue.
Chronicle of Geoffrey le Baker of Swinbroke
Baker was a secular clerk from Swinbroke, now Swinbrook, an Oxfordshire village two miles east of Burford. His Chronicle describes the events of the period 1303-1356: Gaveston, Bannockburn, Boroughbridge, the murder of King Edward II, the Scottish Wars, Sluys, Crécy, the Black Death, Winchelsea and Poitiers. To quote Herbert Bruce 'it possesses a vigorous and characteristic style, and its value for particular events between 1303 and 1356 has been recognised by its editor and by subsequent writers'. The book provides remarkable detail about the events it describes. Baker's text has been augmented with hundreds of notes, including extracts from other contemporary chronicles, such as the Annales Londonienses, Annales Paulini, Murimuth, Lanercost, Avesbury, Guisborough and Froissart to enrich the reader's understanding. The translation takes as its source the 'Chronicon Galfridi le Baker de Swynebroke' published in 1889, edited by Edward Maunde Thompson.
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On 26th July 1739 Margaret Cavendish-Bentinck was born to William Bentinck 2nd Duke Portland (age 30) and Margaret Cavendish Harley 2nd Duchess Portland (age 24) at Welbeck Abbey, Nottinghamshire [Map].
On 26th July 1749 John Warwick Smith was born. He married on or after 6th February 1783 Elizabeth Gerrard.
On 26th July 1750 Frances Scott Baroness Douglas was born to Francis Scott and Caroline Campbell 1st Baroness Greenwich (age 32). She a great x 3 granddaughter of King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland. She married 1783 Archibald Douglas 1st Baron Douglas and had issue.
On 26th July 1785 Henry Monck 1st Earl of Rathdowne was born to Charles Stanley Monck 1st Viscount Monck (age 31) and Anne Quin. He married 28th July 1806 Frances Mary Trench, daughter of William Trench 1st Earl of Clancarty.
On 26th July 1804 Joseph William Copley 4th Baronet was born to Joseph Copley 3rd Baronet (age 35) and Cecil Hamilton Marchioness Abercorn (age 34). He married 19th November 1831 Charlotte Anderson-Pelham Lady Copley, daughter of Charles Anderson-Pelham 1st Earl Yarborough.
On 26th July 1809 Robert Williams was born to Robert Williams 9th Baronet (age 45).
On 26th July 1816 Harriet Bagot was born to Bishop Richard Bagot (age 33) and Harriet Villiers (age 28). She married 18th July 1837 her fourth cousin Charles Thynne, son of Thomas Thynne 2nd Marquess of Bath and Isabella Elizabeth Byng Marchioness Bath, and had issue.
On 26th July 1827 George Baillie-Hamilton 11th Earl of Haddington was born to George Baillie-Hamilton 10th Earl of Haddington (age 25).
On 26th July 1838 Granville Beckford Pitt-Rivers was born to George Pitt-Rivers 4th Baron Rivers (age 28) and Susan Georgiana Leveson-Gower Baroness Rivers (age 28).
On 26th July 1840 Sophia Anderson-Pelham Countess Eglinton was born to Charles Anderson-Pelham 2nd Earl Yarborough (age 31) and Maria Adelaide Maude Countess Yarborough (age 25). She married 6th December 1862 Archibald Montgomerie 14th Earl of Eglinton, son of Archibald William Montgomerie 13th Earl Eglinton and Theresa Howe Newcomen.
On 26th July 1859 Lillian Mary Paulet was born to John Paulet 14th Marquess Winchester (age 58) and Mary Robinson Montagu Marchioness Winchester. She married (1) 18th July 1884 Randolph Gordon Erskine-Wemyss and had issue.
On 26th July 1870 Ignacio Zuloaga was born.
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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On 26th July 1902 Thomas Adrian Verney-Cave 7th Baron Braye was born to Adrian Verney Verney-Cave 6th Baron Braye (age 27) and Ethel Mary Bouverie-Pusey Baroness Braye.
On 26th July 1717 Charles Cadogan 2nd Baron Cadogan (age 32) and Elizabeth Sloane Baroness Cadogan (age 22) were married at Church of St George the Martyr, Queen Square. The marriage transferred the 250-acre (1.0 km2) Sloane estate in suburban Chelsea to the Cadogan family, which has been the basis of the family wealth ever since.
On 26th July 1738 James Fitz James 3rd Duke Berwick 10th Duke Veragua (age 19) and Maria Teresa Silva Duchess Berwick and Veragua (age 22) were married. She by marriage Duchess Berwick. He the son of James Fitz James 2nd Duke Berwick and Catalina Ventura Colón Duchess Berwick 9th Duchess Veragua (age 48).
On 26th July 1810 John Horsley Beresford 2nd Baron Decies (age 36) and Charlotte Philadelphia Horsley (age 36) were married.
On 26th July 1814 George Finch-Hatton 5th Earl Nottingham 10th Earl Winchilsea (age 23) and Georgiana Charlotte Graham Countess Nottingham Winchelsea (age 20) were married. She the daughter of James Graham 3rd Duke Montrose (age 58) and Caroline Maria Montagu Duchess Montrose. They were sixth cousins.
On 26th July 1822 James Hogg 1st Baronet (age 32) and Mary Swinton were married. They had fourteen children.
On 26th July 1825 Fletcher Norton 3rd Baron Grantley (age 27) and Charlotte Earle Beechey Baroness Grantley were married. She by marriage Baroness Grantley of Markenfield in Yorkshire.
On 26th July 1831 Charles Miles Lambert Monck 6th Baronet (age 52) and Mary Elizabeth Bennet (age 46) were married. She the daughter of Charles Bennet 4th Earl Tankerville and Emma Colebrooke Countess Tankerville (age 79).
On 26th July 1890 Arthur Walsh 3rd Baron Ormathwaite (age 31) and Clementine Pratt Baroness Ormathwaite (age 20) were married. She the daughter of John Charles Pratt 3rd Marquess Camden and Clementina Augusta Spencer-Churchill Countess Camden. They were fourth cousins.
On 26th July 1893 Charles Botolph Joseph Stourton 21st Baron Stourton 23rd Baron Segrave 22nd Baron Mowbray (age 26) and Mary Constable Baroness Stourton, Segrave and Mowbray (age 23) were married. She by marriage Baroness Stourton, Baroness Segrave and Baroness Mowbray.
On 26th July 1894 Frederick Smith 2nd Viscount Hambleden (age 25) and Esther Georgiana Caroline Gore Viscountess Hambleden (age 24) were married. They had five children. She the daughter of Arthur Saunders Gore 5th Earl Arran (age 55) and Edith Jocelyn.
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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On 26th July 1923 Thomas Brand 4th Viscount Hampden (age 23) and Leila Seely Viscountess Hampden (age 22) were married.
On 26th July 1934 Oswald Partington 2nd Baron Doverdale (age 62) and Leslie Cornell Baroness Doverdale were married. She by marriage Baroness Doverdale of Westwood Park in Worcestershire.
On 26th July 1949 George Herbert 7th Earl of Powis (age 24) and Katharine Odeyne de Grey Countess Powis (age 21) were married. He the son of Bishop Percy Herbert (age 64) and Elaine Letitia Algitha Orde-Powlett (age 54).
On 26th July 1951 William Douglas-Home Baron Dacre (age 39) and Rachel Leila Brand 27th Baroness Dacre (age 21) were married. He the son of Charles Cospatrick Douglas-Home 13th Earl of Home (deceased) and Lilian Lambton Countess of Home (age 69). They were third cousins.
On 26th July 1158 Geoffrey Plantagenet Count Nantes (age 24) died at Nantes [Map].
On 26th July 1242 Robert Courtenay 1st Baron Okehampton (age 72) died. His son John (age 18) succeeded 2nd Baron Okehampton.
On 26th July 1383 Isabella Valois Duchess Bourbon (age 70) died.
On 26th July 1450 Cecily Neville Duchess Warwick (age 26) died.
On 26th July 1518 John Cotell was strangled by his wife Alice aka Agnes Cotell (age 33) at Farleigh Hungreford Castle [Map] with the aid of William Mathewe and William Inges, yeomen of Heytesbury, Wiltshire [Map]. He, John, was steward to Edward Hungerford who she subsequently married.
On 26th July 1538 George Talbot 4th Earl of Shrewsbury (age 70) died at Wingfield, Suffolk. He was buried at Sheffield Cathedral [Map]. His son Francis (age 38) succeeded 5th Earl of Shrewsbury, 5th Earl Waterford, 10th Baron Furnivall, 14th Baron Strange Blackmere, 11th Baron Talbot.
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 26th July 1614 Henry Grey 1st Baron Grey of Groby (age 67) died. His grandson Henry (age 15) succeeded 2nd Baron Grey of Groby.
On 26th July 1630 Charles Emmanuel Savoy I Duke Savoy (age 68) died.
On 26th July 1639 Henry O'Brien 5th Earl Thomond (age 51) died. His brother Barnabas succeeded 6th Earl Thomond.
On 26th July 1680 Hugh Smyth 1st Baronet (age 48) died. He was buried at the Church of All Saints, Long Ashton [Map]. His son John (age 20) succeeded 2nd Baronet Smyth of Ashton Court in Somerset.
On 26th July 1680 John Wilmot 2nd Earl Rochester (age 33) died. His son Charles (age 9) succeeded 3rd Earl Rochester, 3rd Viscount Wilmot.
On 26th July 1681 Margaret O'Brien Marchioness of Worcester died.
On 26th July 1681 John Leslie 1st Duke Rothes (age 51) died. Duke Rothes extinct. His daughter Margaret succeeded Countess Rothes.
On 26th July 1681 Thomas Isham 3rd Baronet (age 24) died. His brother Justinian (age 22) succeeded 4th Baronet Isham of Lamport in Northamptonshire.
On 26th July 1691 Henry Cavendish 2nd Duke Newcastle upon Tyne (age 61) died at Welbeck Abbey, Nottinghamshire [Map]. Duke Newcastle upon Tyne, Earl Newcastle upon Tyne extinct. Baron Ogle abeyant.
On 26th July 1712 Thomas Osborne 1st Duke Leeds (age 80) died. His son Peregrine (age 53) succeeded 2nd Duke Leeds, 2nd Earl of Danby, 2nd Viscount Osborne, 2nd Viscount Latimer, 2nd Baron Osborne of Kinderton, 3rd Baronet Osborne of Kiveton. Bridget Hyde Duchess Leeds (age 50) by marriage Duchess Leeds.
On 26th July 1723 Robert Bertie 1st Duke Ancaster and Kesteven (age 62) died. His son Peregrine (age 37) succeeded 2nd Duke Ancaster and Kesteven, 2nd Marquess Lindsay, 5th Earl Lindsey, 18th Baron Willoughby de Eresby. Jane Brownlow Duchess Ancaster and Kesteven by marriage Duchess Ancaster and Kesteven.
On 26th July 1767 Henrietta Hobart Countess Suffolk (age 78) died.
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 26th July 1845 Elizabeth Howard (age 42) died. She was buried in the Saint Mary Magdalene's Church, Sherborne [Map]. Monument sculpted by William "The Younger" Theed (age 41).
Elizabeth Howard: In 1803 she was born to Thomas Howard 16th Earl Suffolk 9th Earl Berkshire and Elizabeth Jane Dutton Countess Suffolk and Berkshire. On 22nd June 1826 James Henry Legge Dutton 3rd Baron Sherborne and she were married. She the daughter of Thomas Howard 16th Earl Suffolk 9th Earl Berkshire and Elizabeth Jane Dutton Countess Suffolk and Berkshire. They were first cousins.
On 26th July 1851 Anne Isabella Monck Viscountess Hawarden (age 92) died.
On 26th July 1895 Caroline Margaret Fox-Strangways Lady Kerrison (age 76) died.
On 26th July 1912 Sewallis Edward Shirley 10th Earl Ferrers (age 65) died. On His fourth cousin Walter (age 48) succeeded 11th Earl Ferrers, 17th Baronet Shirley of Staunton Harold in Leicestershire. Mary Jane Moon Countess Ferrers by marriage Countess Ferrers.
On 26th July 1914 Henry Strutt 2nd Baron Belper (age 74) died. His son Algernon (age 31) succeeded 3rd Baron Belper. Eva Isabel Countess Rosebery (age 22) by marriage Baroness Belper.
On 26th July 1919 Edward Poynter 1st Baronet (age 83) died. His son Ambrose (age 51) succeeded 2nd Baronet Poynter of Albert Gate in Westminster in London.
On 26th July 1936 Lettice Mary Elizabeth Grosvenor Countess Beauchamp (age 59) died estranged from all her children except her youngest Richard Edward Lygon (age 19).
On 26th July 1938 Frances Evelyn "Daisy" Maynard Countess Warwick (age 76) died.
On 26th July 1941 Rennell Rodd 1st Baron Rodd (age 82) died. His son Francis (age 45) succeeded 2nd Baron Rennell of Rodd in Herefordshire. Mary Smith Baroness Rennell (age 39) by marriage Baroness Rennell of Rodd in Herefordshire.
On 26th July 1945 Joan Emily Thynne Countess Cawdor (age 72) died.
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 26th July 1954 Theodore Ernest Warren Brinckman 4th Baronet (age 56) died. His brother Roderick (age 51) succeeded 5th Baronet Broadhead aka Brinckman of Burton or Monk-Bretton in Yorkshire.
On 26th July 1963 John Francis Godolphin Osborne 11th Duke Leeds (age 62) died without male issue. His second cousin once removed Francis (age 78) succeeded 12th Duke Leeds, 12th Earl of Danby, 12th Viscount Osborne, 12th Viscount Latimer, 12th Baron Osborne of Kinderton, 13th Baronet Osborne of Kiveton, 6th Baron Godolphin of Farnham Royal in Buckinghamshire.
On 26th July 1964 Francis Curzon 5th Earl Howe (age 80) died. His son Edward (age 55) succeeded 6th Earl Howe, 7th Viscount Curzon of Penn in Buckinghamshire, 8th Baron Howe.
On 26th July 1970 Charles Musgrave 14th Baronet (age 56) died. His son Christopher (age 21) succeeded 15th Baronet Musgrave of Hartley Castle in Westmoreland.
On 26th July 2020 Theodore George Roderick Brinckman 6th Baronet (age 88) died. His son Theodore (age 60) succeeded 7th Baronet Broadhead aka Brinckman of Burton or Monk-Bretton in Yorkshire.