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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28 Oct is in October.
1216 Gloucester Coronation of Henry III
1396 Marriage of Richard II and Isabella of Valois
1441 Trial and Punishment of Eleanor Cobham
1455 Henry VI's Second Illness
Anglo-Saxon Chronicle. 984. This year died the benevolent Bishop of Winchester, Athelwold (age 80), father of monks; and the consecration of the following bishop, Elfheah (age 31), who by another name was called Godwin, was on the fourteenth day before the calends of November; and he took his seat on the episcopal bench on the mass-day of the two apostles Simon and Jude, at Winchester.
On 28th October 984 Archbishop Ælfheah (age 31) was enthroned Bishop of Winchester.
On 28th October 994 Archbishop Sigeric died.
On 28th October 998 Sigfried of Luxemburg Count of Ardennes (age 76) died. His son Henry succeeded I Count Luxemburg.
On 28th October 1017 Henry "Black Pious" Salian III Holy Roman Emperor was born. He married (1) 1036 Gunhilda Knytlinga, daughter of King Cnut of England and Emma aka Ælfgyfu of Normandy Queen Consort England (2) 1043 Agnes Poitiers, daughter of William "Great" V Duke Aquitaine and Agnes Ivrea Duchess Aquitaine, and had issue.
On 28th October 1216 King Henry III of England (age 9) was crowned III King of England at Gloucester Cathedral [Map] during the Gloucester Coronation of Henry III at which Cardinal Guala Bicchieri (age 66) presided, Bishop Sylvester and Bishop Simon Apulia anointed the King. The coronation took place in Gloucester since London was at the time held by rebels. John Monmouth (age 34) was present.
Chronicum Anglicanum by Ralph Coggeshall. And his son Henry, a boy of ten years, succeeded him. He was consecrated king at Gloucester on the feast of the apostles Simon and Jude [28th October 1216], in the presence of Gualo the legate, who had come into England that same year. Afterwards he mercilessly despoiled Master Gervase, dean of London, together with the priests of that city and other clerics, of their benefices, as also those who had sided with Louis and celebrated during the interdict; and he distributed their ecclesiastical benefices at his own pleasure to other persons.
Et consecratus est in regem apud Gloecestriam, in die apostolorum Simonis et Judæ, præsente G. legato, qui eodem anno in Angliam applicuerat. Qui postmodum magistrum Gervasium, decanum Londoniæ, ac presbyteros ejusdem urbis ac cæteros clericos, beneficiis suis immisericorditer spoliavit, et cæteros qui Lodowico consenserunt et in interdicto celebraverant ; atque eorum beneficia ecclesiastica aliis personis pro voluntate distribuit.
Chronicle of Walter of Guisborough. Upon hearing these things, the king immediately sent five hundred armed knights and twenty thousand foot soldiers into Gascony, under the command of Lord John de St. John, who had formerly served as seneschal of that land, along with Lord John of Brittany and the most valiant knight William Latimer. After all preparations necessary for such an expedition had been completed at Portsmouth, they set out to sea around the Feast of St. Peter in Chains [1st August 1294]. However, due to contrary winds, the fleet was scattered along the coasts of Cornwall. They regrouped again at Plymouth around the Feast of St. Denis [9th October 1294], hoisted sail once more, and after enduring many and various perils of storms, finally landed in Gascony near the Feast of Saints Simon and Jude [28th October 1294], at Castillon, which lies on the banks of the River Garonne. The lord of that town submitted himself to them and to the King of England, received them with great joy, and treated them kindly. From there they marched to Macau, and the citizens surrendered on the Eve of All Saints [31st October 1294]. On the following day, the whole fleet anchored before Bourg-sur-Gironde [Mons Albani]. The townspeople wished to surrender, but they feared the Picards who were stationed in the town's garrison. When the Picards saw that the townspeople intended to surrender, they sallied out from the castle and slew many. The citizens sent messengers to the English reporting what had happened and begging for help. The English quickly came to their aid and drove the royal [French] troops back into the castle. The townspeople then surrendered. In the morning, when our men prepared to storm the castle, the Picards asked for a three-day truce so that they could send a messenger to Bordeaux. They promised to surrender without delay if no help arrived. So a boy was sent, and the Constable of Bordeaux and the Marshal of France replied that they could not come so quickly, but ordered the Picards to defend themselves and resist manfully, especially as they had supplies and all necessities to last six months. Upon hearing this, the Picards surrendered immediately, on condition that their lives, limbs, horses, and arms be spared, and they departed in peace. Eight days later, our forces returned to the town of Blaye, which lies two leagues from Bourg. The garrison there sought a similar truce and obtained it; but as no help came, they surrendered and left. Our troops found a large amount of provisions in both the town and the castle, including around 2,500 barrels of wine.
Hiis auditis mox ipse rex quingentos armatos et viginti millia peditum misit in Vasconiam cum domino Johanne de Sancto Johanne, qui ejusdem terræ olim senescallus extiterat, et cum domino Johanne de Britannia, et illo milite strenuissimo Willelmo Latymer; qui apud Portesmew omnibus ad expeditionem tantam necessariis præparatis, posuerunt se in mari circa festum beati Petri ad Vincula, et irruente vento contrario dispersæ sunt naves per partes Cornubiæ; iterumque recollectæ apud Plumeuthe circa festum beati Dionysii ventis vela iterato laxabant, et post multa variaque tempestatum discrimina tandem circa festum Apostolorum Symonis et Judæ, applicuerunt in Vasconiam apud Chastellon, quæ situatur in littore fluminis Gerundæ; deditque se eis et regi Angliæ dominus urbis illius, et eos cum lætitia magna suscepit, et benigne tractavit. Profectique sunt inde usque ad Makant et dederunt se cives in vigilia Omnium Sanctorum, et in crastino anchoraverunt cum tota classe ante Burgum super mare qui antiquitus dicebatur Mons Albani; cives autem se dare volebant, sed timebant Picardos qui erant in præsidio civitatis; cumque vidissent Picardi quod se dare vellent, exierunt a castro et plurimos peremerunt. Miseruntque cives ad Anglos nunciantes hæc et eorum auxilium exposcentes, qui confestim in eorum auxilium ascenderunt, et retraxerunt se regales in castrum, et cives se dederunt; mane autem facto cum nostri in castrum irruere voluissent, petierunt Picardi inducias triduales, ut misso nuncio Burdegalim si in eorum non venirent auxilium se statim redderent absque dubio. Misso igitur puero remandavit eis constabularius de Burdews et marescallus Franciæ quod ita festinanter venire non poterant, immo se defenderent et viriliter resisterent, præcipue cum haberent victualia et cætera quæque necessaria, pro tempore semestri; quo audito statim dederunt se, salvis sibi vita et membris, equis et armis, et abierunt in pace. Post dies octo reversi sunt nostri ad urbem de Blaynes, quæ distat a Burgo per duas leucas, et similes quasi treugas petierunt castrenses et habuerunt, sed nullo veniente auxilio dederunt se et abierunt, inveneruntque nostri victualia multa in urbe et in castro et dolia vini circiter MMD.
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Thomas Walsingham [~1422]. On Saturday, the feast of the Apostles Simon and Jude [28th October 1396], the King of England and the King of France conferred concerning certain articles of their treaty; and when this had been done, they swore upon the Gospels to observe the agreements. Then the King of England asked the King of France that he would dine with him on the following day.
Die Sabbati in festo Apostolorum Symonis et Judae, Rex Angliæ et Franciæ collocuti sunt de certis articulis tractatus sui; quo facto, jurati sunt super Evangelia de pactis servandis. Tunc Rex Angliæ rogavit Regem Franciffl ut pranderet cum eo die sequente.
On 28th October 1441 Thomas Southwell died whilst in the Tower of London [Map] one day before his trial was set to begin. The Chronicle of Gregory says he "deyde in the Toure for sorowe.".
Chronicle of Gregory [1400-1467]. 27th October 1441. And on Syn Symon and Jude is eve was the wycche (age 26) be syde Westemyster brent in Smethefylde [Map], and on the day of Symon and Jude [28th October 1441] the person [parson] of Syn Stevynnys in Walbroke, whyche that was one of the same fore said traytours [Thomas Southwell], deyde in the Toure [Map] for sorowe.
An English Chronicle. [28th October 1441]. And in the mene tyme the forsaid maister Thomas Suthwelle deide in the tour of Londoun.
On 28th October 1449 Christian I King of Denmark (age 23) and Dorothea of Brandenburg (age 18) were married.
Paston Letters Volume 3 303. James Gresham To John Paston.48.1
To my right worshipfull maister, John Paston, at Norwiche, be this delyvred. 28th October 1455
Please it your maistership to wete48.2 ....
Here be many marvaylos tales of thynggs that shall falle this next moneth, as it is seyd; for it is talked that oon Doktor Grene, a preest, hath kalked [calculated ?] and reporteth, that by fore Seynt Andreu day next comyng shall be the grettest bataill that was sith the bataill of Shrewisbury,48.3 and it shall falle bytwene the Bisshoppes Inne of Salesbury and Westminster Barres, and there shall deye vij. Lords, whereof iij. shuld be bisshoppes. Althis and meche more is talked and reported. I trust to God it shall not falle so.
Also there is gret varyance bytwene the Erll of Devenshire and the Lord Bonvyle, as hath be many day, and meche debat is like to growe therby; for on Thursday at nyght last passed, the Erll of Denshyres sone and heir come with lx. men of armes to Radford's49.1 place in Devenshire, whiche was of counseil with my Lord Bonvyle; and they sette an hous on fyer at Radfords gate, and cryed and mad an noyse as though they had be sory for the fyer; and by that cause Radfords men set opyn the gats and yede owt to se the fyer; and for with th'erll sone forseid entred into the place and intreted Radford to come doun of his chambre to sp[e]ke with them, promyttyng hym that he shuld no bodyly harm have; up on whiche promysse he come doun, and spak with the seid Erll sone.
In the mene tyme his menye robbe his chambre, and ryfled his huches,49.2 and trussed suyche as they coude gete to gydder, and caryed it awey on his own hors. Thanne th'erll sone seid, 'Radford, thou must come to my lord my fadir.' He seid he wold, and bad oon of his men make redy his hors to ride with hem, whiche answerd hym that alle his hors wern take awey; thanne he seid to th'erll sone, 'Sir, your men have robbed my chambre, and thei have myn hors, that I may not ride with you to my lord your fadir, wherfor, I pray you, lete me ride, for I am old, and may not go.'
It was answerid hym ageyn, that he shuld walke forth with them on his feete; and so he dede till he was a flyte49.3 shote or more from his place, and thanne he was ..... softly, for cawse he myght not go fast. And whanne thei were thus departed, he turned .... oon; forwith come ix. men ageyn up on hym, and smot hym in the hed, and fellid .... of them kyt his throte.
This was told to my Lord Chaunceler49.4 this fornoon .... messengers as come of purpos owt of the same cuntre. This matier is take gretly .... passed at ij. after mydnyght rod owt of London, as it is seid, more thanne .... the best wyse. Summe seyne it was to ride toward my Lord of York, and summe .... k, so meche rumor is here; what it menyth I wot not, God turne it .... at Hertford,50.1 and summe men ar a ferd that he [King Henry VI of England and II of France (age 33)] is seek ageyn. I pray God .... my Lords of York, Warwyk, Salesbury and other arn in purpos to conveye hym ....... &c. The seid N. Crome, berer her of, shall telle you suche tydynggs ....... in hast, at London, on Seint Simon day and Jude.Yowr poerJ. Gr.
Note 48.1. [From Fenn, i. 114.] This letter was written in 1455, at the time of the King's second attack of illness, which happened while he was under the control of the Duke of York and the Earls of Warwick and Salisbury, as mentioned at the end of the letter. In the latter part of the letter some words are lost by the decay of the original MS.
Note 48.2. Here, says Fenn, follows an account of some law business, etc.
Note 48.3. Fought in 1403 between King Henry IV. and the rebel Percies.
Note 49.1. 'Nicolas Radford,' says Fenn in a note, 'was an eminent lawyer, and resided at Poghill, near Kyrton.' In Pole's Description of Devonshire, p. 219, we find that one Nicolas Radford dwelled at Upcot in Henry VI's time, 'after whose death controversy arose betwixt John Radford of Okeford and Thomazin, sister of the said Nicholas,' who had married Roger Prous.
Note 49.2. A hutch was a coffer or chest standing on legs.
Note 49.3. A flight was 'a light arrow formed for very long and straight shots.'—Halliwell.
Note 49.4. Archbishop Bourchier.
Note 50.1. The King was at Hertford, as appears by the Privy Seals, in August and September 1455, and not improbably in October also.
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Close Rolls Edward IV Edward V Richard III 1476-1485. 28th October 1483 King Richard III of England (age 31). Leicester, Leicestershire [Map]. General commission of array to the king's kinsman Francis Lovell, Viscount Lovel his chamberlain, for the resistance of the rebel Henry, duke of Buskingham. Mutilated. By K. by word of mouth.
On 28th October 1485 Jasper Tudor 1st Duke Bedford (age 53) was created 1st Duke Bedford by Henry VII (age 28) for having supported Henry's claim to the throne. Catherine Woodville Duchess Buckingham and Bedford (age 27) by marriage Duchess Bedford.
Thomas Stanley 1st Earl of Derby (age 50) was created 1st Earl Derby.
Edward Courtenay 1st Earl Devon (age 26) was created 1st Earl Devon. It is believed he was restored as 11th Baron Okehampton at the same time?
Reginald Bray (age 45), John Fitzwalter, Thomas Cokesge, Roger Lewknor, Henry Haydon and John Verney were appointed Knight of the Bath.
On 28th October 1533 King Henry II of France (age 14) and Catherine Medici Queen Consort France (age 14) were married. She by marriage Queen Consort of France. He the son of King Francis I of France (age 39) and Claude Valois Orléans Queen Consort France. They were sixth cousins.
Letters and Papers Foreign and Domestic Henry VIII 1535. 28th October 1535. R. O. 700. John Graynfyld to Lord Lisle (age 71).
I have received your letter by your servant Bryant, and sped him of your requests. My Lord Chancellor prays you not to be so liberal in granting these petitions. I told him it was usual with your predecessors. He said, Never came so many; and told me to inform you that the certificate of the spiritualty was not correct, and that displeasure would be taken if it were known. I told him you would not certify from any partiality. He asked me why you had not certified Stanyngfyld. I told him "hit wasse a neuter;" and he said you ought to certify it as within the English pale, and that the King's subject was master of the house; also that you had omitted to certify the house of the sisters by the walls of Calais. Your lease of Sybberton is made sure. Please remember the matter between Golfon (Golston) and me. My Lord Leonard Graye (age 56) has gone into Ireland again, and many gunners with him. The King gave him 500 marks and £100 land to him and his heirs, besides his previous grant of 300 marks land. Also the King gave him a ship well trimmed, and the Queen (age 34) a chain of gold from her middle, worth 100 marks, and a purse of 20 sovereigns. The death is well stopped in London. All manner of grain is at a great price. St. Simon and St. Jude's Day.
Commends himself to his brother Sir Ric. Graynfyld and Mr. Porter.
Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd.
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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Henry Machyn's Diary. 28th October 1557. The xxviij day of October was the masse of requiem song, and a goodly sermon; and after masse her grasse was bered; and all her hed offesers with whytt stayffes in ther handes, and all the haroldes waytyng abowt her in ther cott armurs, and my lord abbott of Westmynster (age 42) [was the] precher, a godly sarman; and my lord of London (age 57) song the masse, and the byshope of (blank) song the masse of the (blank), and ther was a (blank) masse sayd; and after to my lordes plase to dener, for ther was a gret dener.
On 28th October 1571 William Parr 1st Marquess Northampton (age 59) died at Warwick Priory, Warwickshire [Map]. He was buried in the Chancel of St Mary's Church, Warwick [Map]. His funeral was paid for by Queen Elizabeth I of England and Ireland (age 38). Marquess Northampton and Earl Essex, Baron Parr of Kendal extinct.
After 28th October 1613. Monument to George St Paul 1st Baronet (deceased) and Frances Wray Countess Warwick at St Lawrence's Church, Snarford [Map]. Elizabethan Period. A base supporting the reclining figures of the deceased with composite Pillars supporting an entablature and armorial termination. In the base is a central semi-circular niche containing a carving of the deceased's daughter, flanked by niches containing mourning putti. Above on the lower step is a figure of Frances in full mourning dress with formal Ruff and hat, reclining on a cushion holding a prayer book. On the upper step he reclines in plate armour with a sword. The figures are contained in a semi-circular headed Recess with roses in the archivolt and on the back wall is an inscribed rectangular panel with scrolls and memento mori. The Pillars to either side support a frieze and entablature from which rise flaming urns and at the angles, and at the centre is a raised achievement of arms flanked by scrolled shields and obelisks. Possibly sculpted by Cornelius Cure.
On 28th October 1628 Richard Preston 1st Earl Desmond was drowned whilst travelling between Dublin [Map] and Holyhead, Anglesey.
On or before 28th October 1646 William Dobson (age 35) died. He was buried on 28th October 1646.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 28th October 1660 Lord's Day. There came some pills and plaister this morning from Dr. Williams for my wife. I to Westminster Abbey, where with much difficulty, going round by the cloysters, I got in; this day being a great day for the consecrating of five Bishopps, which was done after sermon; but I could not get into Henry the Seventh's chappell. So I went to my Lord's, where I dined with my Lady, and my young Lord, and Mr. Sidney, who was sent for from Twickenham to see my Lord Mayor's show to-morrow. Mr. Child did also dine with us. After dinner to White Hall chappell; my Lady and my Lady Jemimah and I up to the King's (age 30) closet (who is now gone to meet the Queen (age 50)). So meeting with one Mr. Hill, that did know my Lady, he did take us into the King's closet, and there we did stay all service-time, which I did think a great honour. We went home to my Lord's lodgings afterwards, and there I parted with my Lady and went home, where I did find my wife pretty well after her physic. So to bed.
John Evelyn's Diary. 28th October 1660. His Majesty (age 30) went to meet the Queen-Mother (age 50).
John Evelyn's Diary. 28th October 1662. To Court in the evening where the Queen-Mother (age 52), the Queen-Consort (age 23), and his Majesty (age 32) being advertised of some disturbance, forbore to go to the Lord Mayor's show and feast appointed next day, the new Queen not having yet seen that triumph.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 28th October 1664. Thence to the 'Change [Map] a little, and thence home with Luellin to dinner, where Deane (age 30) met me by appointment, and after dinner he and I up to my chamber, and there hard at discourse, and advising him what to do in his business at Harwich, Essex [Map], and then to discourse of our old business of ships and taking new rules of him to my great pleasure, and he being gone I to my office a little, and then to see Sir W. Batten (age 63), who is sick of a greater cold than I, and thither comes to me Mr. Holliard (age 55), and into the chamber to me, and, poor man (beyond all I ever saw of him), was a little drunk, and there sat talking and finding acquaintance with Sir W. Batten and my Lady by relations on both sides, that there we staid very long. At last broke up, and he home much overcome with drink, but well enough to get well home. So I home to supper and to bed.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 28th October 1665. Up, and sent for Thomas Willson, and broke the victualling business to him and he is mightily contented, and so am I that I have bestowed it on him, and so I to Mr. Boreman's, where Sir W. Batten (age 64) is, to tell him what I had proposed to Thomas Willson, and the newes also I have this morning from Sir W. Clerke (age 42), which is, that notwithstanding all the care the Duke of Albemarle (age 56) hath taken about the putting the East India prize goods into the East India Company hands, and my Lord Bruncker (age 45) and Sir J. Minnes (age 66) having laden out a great part of the goods, an order is come from Court to stop all, and to have the goods delivered to the Sub-Commissioners of prizes. At which I am glad, because it do vex this simple weake man, and we shall have a little reparation for the disgrace my Lord Sandwich (age 40) has had in it.
John Evelyn's Diary. 28th October 1666. The pestilence, through God's mercy, began now to abate considerably in our town.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 28th October 1666. Lord's Day. Up, and to church with my wife, and then home, and there is come little Michell and his wife, I sent for them, and also comes Captain Guy to dine with me, and he and I much talk together. He cries out of the discipline of the fleete, and confesses really that the true English valour we talk of is almost spent and worn out; few of the commanders doing what they should do, and he much fears we shall therefore be beaten the next year. He assures me we were beaten home the last June fight, and that the whole fleete was ashamed to hear of our bonefires. He commends Smith, and cries out of Holmes (age 44) for an idle, proud, conceited, though stout fellow. He tells me we are to owe the losse of so many ships on the sands, not to any fault of the pilots, but to the weather; but in this I have good authority to fear there was something more. He says the Dutch do fight in very good order, and we in none at all. He says that in the July fight, both the Prince (age 46) and Holmes had their belly-fulls, and were fain to go aside; though, if the wind had continued, we had utterly beaten them. He do confess the whole to be governed by a company of fools, and fears our ruine.
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 28th October 1667 Maria Anna Neuburg Queen Consort Spain was born to Philip William Elector Palatine (age 51) and Elizabeth Amalie of Hesse Darmstadt (age 32). She married August 1689 her third cousin once removed King Charles "Bewitched" II of Spain, son of Philip IV King Spain and Mariana of Austria Queen Consort Spain.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 28th October 1667. Thence home, and met news from Mr. Townsend of the Wardrobe that old Young, the yeoman taylor, whose place my Lord Sandwich (age 42) promised my father, is dead. Upon which, resolving presently that my father shall not be troubled with it, but I hope I shall be able to enable him to end his days where he is, in quiet, I went forth thinking to tell Mrs. Ferrers (Captain Ferrers's wife), who do expect it after my father, that she may look after it, but upon second thoughts forbore it, and so back again home, calling at the New Exchange, and there buying "The Indian Emperour", newly printed, and so home to dinner, where I had Mr. Clerke, the sollicitor, and one of the Auditor's clerks to discourse about the form of making up my accounts for the Exchequer, which did give me good satisfaction, and so after dinner, my wife, and Mercer, who grows fat, and Willett, and I, to the King's house, and there saw "The Committee", a play I like well, and so at night home and to the office, and so to my chamber about my accounts, and then to Sir W. Pen's (age 46) to speak with Sir John Chichly (age 27), who desired my advice about a prize which he hath begged of the King (age 37), and there had a great deal of his foolish talk of ladies and love and I know not what, and so home to supper and to bed.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 28th October 1667. Up, and by water to White Hall (calling at Michell's and drank a dram of strong water, but it being early I did not see his wife), and thence walked to Sir W. Coventry's (age 39) lodging, but he was gone out, and so going towards St. James's I find him at his house which is fitting for him; and there I to him, and was with him above an hour alone, discoursing of the matters of the nation, and our Office, and himself. He owns that he is, at this day, the chief person aymed at by the Parliament-that is, by the friends of my Chancellor (age 58), and also by the Duke of Albemarle (age 58), by reason of his unhappy shewing of the Duke of Albemarle's letter, the other day, in the House; but that he thinks that he is not liable to any hurt they can fasten on him for anything, he is so well armed to justify himself in every thing, unless in the old business of selling places, when he says every body did; and he will now not be forward to tell his own story, as he hath been; but tells me he is grown wiser, and will put them to prove any thing, and he will defend himself: besides that, he will dispute the statute, thinking that it will not be found to reach him. We did talk many things, which, as they come into my mind now, I shall set down without order: that he is weary of public employment; and neither ever designed, nor will ever, if his commission were brought to him wrapt in gold, would he accept of any single place in the State, as particularly Secretary of State; which, he says, the world discourses Morrice is willing to resign, and he thinks the King (age 37) might have thought of him, but he would not, by any means, now take it, if given him, nor anything, but in commission with others, who may bear part of the blame; for now he observes well, that whoever did do anything singly are now in danger, however honest and painful they were, saying that he himself was the only man, he thinks, at the council-board that spoke his mind clearly, as he thought, to the good of the King; and the rest, who sat silent, have nothing said to them, nor are taken notice of. That the first time the King did take him so closely into his confidence and ministry of affairs was upon the business of Chatham, Kent [Map], when all the disturbances were there, and in the Kingdom; and then, while everybody was fancying for himself, the King did find him to persuade him to call for the Parliament, declaring that it was against his own proper interest, forasmuch as [it was] likely they would find faults with him, as well as with others, but that he would prefer the service of the King before his own: and, thereupon, the King did take him into his special notice, and, from that time to this, hath received him so; and that then he did see the folly and mistakes of the Chancellor in the management of things, and saw that matters were never likely to be done well in that sort of conduct, and did persuade the King to think fit of the taking away the seals from the Chancellor, which, when it was done, he told me that he himself, in his own particular, was sorry for it; for, while he stood, there was he and my Lord Arlington (age 49) to stand between him and harm: whereas now there is only my Lord Arlington, and he is now down, so that all their fury is placed upon him but that he did tell the King, when he first moved it, that, if he thought the laying of him, W. Coventry, aside, would at all facilitate the removing of the Chancellor, he would most willingly submit to it, whereupon the King did command him to try the Duke of York (age 34) about it, and persuade him to it, which he did, by the King's command, undertake, and compass, and the Duke of York did own his consent to the King, but afterwards was brought to be of another mind for the Chancellor, and now is displeased with him, and [so is] the Duchesse, so that she will not see him; but he tells me the Duke of York seems pretty kind, and hath said that he do believe that W. Coventry did mean well, and do it only out of judgment. He tells me that he never was an intriguer in his life, nor will be, nor of any combination of persons to set up this, or fling down that, nor hath, in his own business, this Parliament, spoke to three members to say any thing for him, but will stand upon his own defence, and will stay by it, and thinks that he is armed against all they can [say], but the old business of selling places, and in that thinks they cannot hurt him. However, I do find him mighty willing to have his name used as little as he can, and he was glad when I did deliver him up a letter of his to me, which did give countenance to the discharging of men by ticket at Chatham, Kent [Map], which is now coming in question; and wherein, I confess, I am sorry to find him so tender of appearing, it being a thing not only good and fit, all that was done in it, but promoted and advised by him. But he thinks the House is set upon wresting anything to his prejudice that they can pick up. He tells me he did never, as a great many have, call the Chancellor rogue and knave, and I know not what; but all that he hath said, and will stand by, is, that his counsels were not good, nor the manner of his managing of things. I suppose he means suffering the King to run in debt; for by and by the King walking in the parke, with a great crowd of his idle people about him, I took occasion to say that it was a sorry thing to be a poor King, and to have others to come to correct the faults of his own servants, and that this was it that brought us all into this condition. He answered that he would never be a poor King, and then the other would mend of itself. "No", says he, "I would eat bread and drink water first, and this day discharge all the idle company about me, and walk only with two footmen; and this I have told the King, and this must do it at last". I asked him how long the King would suffer this. He told me the King must suffer it yet longer, that he would not advise the King to do otherwise; for it would break out again worse, if he should break them up before the core be come up. After this, we fell to other talk, of my waiting upon him hereafter, it may be, to read a chapter in Seneca, in this new house, which he hath bought, and is making very fine, when we may be out of employment, which he seems to wish more than to fear, and I do believe him heartily.
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Samuel Pepys' Diary. 28th October 1668. So by coach with Mr. Gibson to Chancery Lane [Map], and there made oath before a Master of Chancery to the Tangier account of fees, and so to White Hall, where, by and by, a Committee met, my Lord Sandwich (age 43) there, but his report was not received, it being late; but only a little business done, about the supplying the place with victuals. But I did get, to my great content, my account allowed of fees, with great applause by my Lord Ashly (age 47) and Sir W. Pen (age 47).
John Evelyn's Diary. 28th October 1684. I carried Lord Clarendon thro' the Citty, amidst all the squibbs and Bacchanalia of the Lord Maior's shew, to ye Royal Society [at Gresham Coll.] where he was propos'd a member; and then treated him at dinner.
On 28th October 1692 Katherine Murray was born to John Murray 1st Duke Atholl (age 32) and Catherine Hamilton Duchess Atholl (age 30). She died aged less than one years old.
On 28th October 1692 Joseph Ferdinand of Bavaria was born to Maximilian Wittelsbach II Elector Bavaria (age 30) and Maria Antonia of Austria (age 23). Coefficient of inbreeding 8.42%. He died aged six in 1699.
On 28th October 1708 Prince George of Denmark 1st Duke Cumberland (age 55) died without surviving issue. Duke Cumberland extinct.
On 28th October 1734 Elizabeth Gordon was born to William Gordon 2nd Earl Aberdeen (age 55) and Anne Gordon Duchess Mantua.
On 28th October 1742 William Graham 2nd Duke Montrose (age 30) and Lucy Manners Duchess Montrose (age 25) were married. She by marriage Duchess Montrose. She the daughter of John Manners 2nd Duke Rutland and Lucy Sherard Duchess Rutland (age 57). He the son of James Graham 1st Duke Montrose.
On 28th October 1756 Charles Noel Somerset 4th Duke Beaufort (age 47) died. He was buried at St Michael and all Angels Church, Badminton. His son Henry (age 12) succeeded 5th Duke Beaufort, 7th Marquess Worcester, 11th Earl Worcester, 13th Baron Herbert of Raglan.
Abbot John Whethamstede’s Chronicle of the Abbey of St Albans
Abbot John Whethamstede's Register aka Chronicle of his second term at the Abbey of St Albans, 1451-1461, is a remarkable text that describes his first-hand experience of the beginning of the Wars of the Roses including the First and Second Battles of St Albans, 1455 and 1461, respectively, their cause, and their consequences, not least on the Abbey itself. His text also includes Loveday, Blore Heath, Northampton, the Act of Accord, Wakefield, and Towton, and ends with the Coronation of King Edward IV. In addition to the events of the Wars of the Roses, Abbot John, or his scribes who wrote the Chronicle, include details in the life of the Abbey such as charters, letters, land exchanges, visits by legates, and disputes, which provide a rich insight into the day-to-day life of the Abbey, and the challenges faced by its Abbot.
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On 28th October 1758 Edward Moore 5th Earl Drogheda (age 57) died at sea whilst travelling between Holyhead and Dublin. His son Charles (age 28) succeeded 6th Earl Drogheda, 8th Viscount Moore of Drogheda, 8th Baron Moore of Mellefont in Louth. Anne Seymour-Conway Countess Drogheda (age 14) by marriage Countess Drogheda.
On 28th October 1811 George Leicester aka Warren 2nd Baron Tabley was born to John Fleming Leicester 1st Baron Tabley (age 49) and Georgiana Cottin Baroness Tabley (age 17). King George IV of Great Britain and Ireland (age 49) was his godfather. He was educated at Eton College [Map] and Christ Church College, Oxford University.
After 28th October 1853. St Swithun's Church, Leadenham [Map]. Monument to Reverend William Key Reeve (deceased).
Reverend William Key Reeve: Around 1784 he was born to William Reeve of Leadenham and Millicent Mary King. On 28th October 1853 he died.
On 28th October 1872 Mabel Gwynedd Terry-Lewis was born to Arthur James Lewis (age 48) and Kate Terry (age 28).
On 28th October 1880 George William Hanover was born to Ernest Augustus Hanover 3rd Duke Cumberland and Teviotdale (age 35) and Thyra Glücksburg Duchess Cumberland and Teviotdale (age 27). He a great x 2 grandson of King George III of Great Britain and Ireland.
On 28th October 1886 Osbert Guy Stanhope Crawford was born to Charles Edward Gordon Crawford in Breach Candy, Bombay.
On 28th October 1910 John Adams Acton (age 79) died.
On 28th October 1914 John Mounsey Lambert (age 31) was killed in action during an unsuccessful attack on the village of Neuve Chapelle. He is commemorated on a plaque at Chapel of St John the Evangelist, Bolton [Map]. He is buried at Cabaret-Rouge British Cemetery, Souchez.
On 28th October 1914 Charles Almeric Cholmondeley (age 34) was killed in action
On 28th October 1915 Horatia Isabella Harriet Morier Duchess Somerset (age 96) died.
On 28th October 2000 a Quarter Peal of 1260 Plain Bob Doubles was completed at Holy Trinity Church, Ashford-in-the-Water [Map]:
On 28th October 1017 Henry "Black Pious" Salian III Holy Roman Emperor was born. He married (1) 1036 Gunhilda Knytlinga, daughter of King Cnut of England and Emma aka Ælfgyfu of Normandy Queen Consort England (2) 1043 Agnes Poitiers, daughter of William "Great" V Duke Aquitaine and Agnes Ivrea Duchess Aquitaine, and had issue.
On 28th October 1430 Richard West 7th Baron De La Warr 4th Baron West was born to Reginald West 6th Baron De La Warr 3rd Baron West (age 35) and Margaret Thorley Baroness De La Warr Baroness West. He married before 10th June 1451 his fourth cousin once removed Katherine Hungerford Baroness De La Warr Baroness West, daughter of Robert Hungerford 2nd Baron Hungerford and Margaret Botreaux 4th Baroness Botreaux Baroness Hungerford, and had issue.
On 28th October 1586 Francis West was born to Thomas West 2nd Baron De La Warr (age 30) and Anne Knollys Baroness De La Warr (age 31). He married (1) Margaret Unknown and had issue (2) after 1627 Temperance Flowerdew.
On 18th October 1662 John Buckworth 1st Baronet was born to John Buckworth (age 40). He was baptised on 28th October 1662 at St Olave's Church [Map]. He married 28th October 1687 Elizabeth Hall Lady Buckworth and had issue.
Chronicle of Abbot Ralph of Coggeshall
The Chronicle of Abbot Ralph of Coggeshall (Chronicon Anglicanum) is an indispensable medieval history that brings to life centuries of English and European affairs through the eyes of a learned Cistercian monk. Ralph of Coggeshall, abbot of the Abbey of Coggeshall in Essex in the early 13th century, continued and expanded his community’s chronicle, documenting events from the Norman Conquest of 1066 into the tumultuous reign of King Henry III. Blending eyewitness testimony, careful compilation, and the monastic commitment to record-keeping, this chronicle offers a rare narrative of political intrigue, royal power struggles, and social upheaval in England and beyond. Ralph’s work captures the reigns of pivotal figures such as Richard I and King John, providing invaluable insights into their characters, decisions, and the forces that shaped medieval rule. More than a simple annal, Chronicon Anglicanum conveys the texture of medieval life and governance, making it a rich source for scholars and readers fascinated by English history, monastic authorship, and the shaping of the medieval world.
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On 28th October 1667 Maria Anna Neuburg Queen Consort Spain was born to Philip William Elector Palatine (age 51) and Elizabeth Amalie of Hesse Darmstadt (age 32). She married August 1689 her third cousin once removed King Charles "Bewitched" II of Spain, son of Philip IV King Spain and Mariana of Austria Queen Consort Spain.
On 28th October 1682 Catherine Crew Lady Harpur was born to Thomas Crew 2nd Baron Crew (age 58) and Anne Armine (age 30). She married before June 1708 John Harpur 4th Baronet, son of John Harpur 3rd Baronet and Anne Willoughby Lady Harpur, and had issue.
On 28th October 1692 Joseph Ferdinand of Bavaria was born to Maximilian Wittelsbach II Elector Bavaria (age 30) and Maria Antonia of Austria (age 23). Coefficient of inbreeding 8.42%. He died aged six in 1699.
On 28th October 1692 Willoughby Bertie 3rd Earl of Abingdon was born to James Bertie (age 18) and Elizabeth Willoughby. He married August 1727 Anna Maria Collins Countess Abingdon and had issue.
On 28th October 1692 Katherine Murray was born to John Murray 1st Duke Atholl (age 32) and Catherine Hamilton Duchess Atholl (age 30). She died aged less than one years old.
On 28th October 1724 Richard Byron was born to William Byron 4th Baron Byron (age 54) and Frances Berkeley Baroness Byron (age 21).
On 28th October 1734 Elizabeth Gordon was born to William Gordon 2nd Earl Aberdeen (age 55) and Anne Gordon Duchess Mantua.
On 28th October 1745 Matthew White Ridley 2nd Baronet was born to Matthew Ridley (age 33) and Elizabeth White (age 24).
On 28th October 1777 Henry Augustus Dillon Lee 13th Viscount Dillon was born to Charles Dillon Lee 12th Viscount Dillon (age 31) and Henrietta Maria Phipps (age 20) at Brussels [Map]. He a great x 3 grandson of King James II of England Scotland and Ireland.
On 28th October 1788 George Lionel Dawson-Damer was born to John Dawson 1st Earl Portarlington (age 44) and Caroline Stuart Countess Portarlington (age 25). He married 20th August 1825 Mary Georgiana Seymour and had issue.
On 28th October 1811 George Leicester aka Warren 2nd Baron Tabley was born to John Fleming Leicester 1st Baron Tabley (age 49) and Georgiana Cottin Baroness Tabley (age 17). King George IV of Great Britain and Ireland (age 49) was his godfather. He was educated at Eton College [Map] and Christ Church College, Oxford University.
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 28th October 1812 Reverend Edward Holmes Farrington was born to Henry Maturin Farrington 3rd Baronet (age 34) and Jane Curry (age 20).
On 28th October 1832 William Reginald Courtenay was born to William Courtenay 11th Earl Devon (age 25) and Elizabeth Fortescue Countess Devon (age 31).
On 28th October 1840 Bertram Ashburnham 5th Earl Ashburnham was born to Bertram Ashburnham 4th Earl Ashburnham (age 42) and Katherine Charlotte Baillie Countess Ashburnham (age 21). He married 1888 Emily Chapman Countess Asburnham and had issue.
On 28th October 1849 Captain Henry Denison was born to Albert Conygham aka Denison 1st Baron Londesborough (age 44) and Ursula Lucy Grace Bridgeman (age 26).
On 28th October 1850 Richard Marcus Brooke 8th Baronet was born to Richard Brooke 7th Baronet (age 35) and Louisa Tollemache Duff (age 26).
On 28th October 1860 Lyonel Plantagenet Tollemache was born to Wilbraham Tollemache 2nd Baron Tollemache (age 28) and Emma Georgiana Stewart (age 19). He married 13th April 1882 his third cousin Blanche Sybil King and had issue.
On 28th October 1870 Charles Trevelyan 3rd Baronet was born to George Trevelyan 2nd Baronet (age 32) and Caroline Philips Lady Trevelyan (age 21). He married 1904 Mary "Molly" Katherine Bell Lady Trevelyan, daughter of Thomas Hugh Bell 2nd Baronet and Florence Eveleen Eleanore Olliffe Lady Bell, and had issue.
On 28th October 1872 Mabel Gwynedd Terry-Lewis was born to Arthur James Lewis (age 48) and Kate Terry (age 28).
On 28th October 1880 George William Hanover was born to Ernest Augustus Hanover 3rd Duke Cumberland and Teviotdale (age 35) and Thyra Glücksburg Duchess Cumberland and Teviotdale (age 27). He a great x 2 grandson of King George III of Great Britain and Ireland.
On 28th October 1882 Frances Lois Vesey Viscountess de Vesci was born to Cecil Lister-Kaye 4th Baronet (age 28) and Beatrice Adeline Pelham-Clinton (age 20). She married before 16th August 1958 Yvo Vesey 5th Viscount Vesey.
On 28th October 1882 Margaret Cecilia Bruce Countess Bradford was born to Henry Bruce 2nd Baron Aberdare (age 31) and Constance Mary Beckett Baroness Aberdare. She married 21st July 1904 Orlando Bridgeman 5th Earl Bradford, son of George Cecil Orlando Bridgeman 4th Earl Bradford and Ida Frances Annabella Lumley Countess Bradford, and had issue.
Chronicle of a Bourgeois of Valenciennes
Récits d’un bourgeois de Valenciennes aka The Chronicle of a Bourgeois of Valenciennes is a vivid 14th-century vernacular chronicle written by an anonymous urban chronicler from Valenciennes in the County of Hainaut. It survives in a manuscript that describes local and regional history from about 1253 to 1366, blending chronology, narrative episodes, and eyewitness-style accounts of political, military, and social events in medieval France, Flanders, and the Low Countries. The work begins with a chronological framework of events affecting Valenciennes and its region under rulers such as King Philip VI of France and the shifting allegiances of local nobility. It includes accounts of conflicts, sieges, diplomatic manoeuvres, and the impact of broader struggles like the Hundred Years’ War on urban life in Hainaut. Written from the perspective of a burgher (bourgeois) rather than a monastery or royal court, the chronicle offers a rare lay viewpoint on high politics and warfare, reflecting how merchants, townspeople, and civic institutions experienced the turbulence of the 13th and 14th centuries. Its narrative style combines straightforward reporting of events with moral and civic observations, making it a valuable source for readers interested in medieval urban society, regional politics, and the lived experience of war and governance in pre-modern Europe.
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On 28th October 1886 Osbert Guy Stanhope Crawford was born to Charles Edward Gordon Crawford in Breach Candy, Bombay.
On 28th October 1886 Albert Charles Gladstone 5th Baronet was born to Reverend Stephen Edward Gladstone (age 42) and Annie Crosthwaite Wilson (age 22).
On 28th October 1888 Charles Andrew Gladstone 6th Baronet was born to Reverend Stephen Edward Gladstone (age 44) and Annie Crosthwaite Wilson (age 24).
On 28th October 1888 Christopher Vane 10th Baron Barnard was born to Henry de Vere Vane 9th Baron Barnard (age 34) and Catherine Sarah Cecil Baroness Barnard (age 27). He married 14th October 1920 Sylvia Mary Straker Baroness Barnard and had issue.
On 28th October 1908 Jean Crichton-Stuart was born to John Crichton-Stuart 4th Marquis of the Isle of Bute (age 27). She married 12th June 1928 her third cousin once removed James Willoughby Bertie, son of Montagu Arthur Bertie 7th Earl of Abingdon and Gwendoline Mary Dormer.
On 28th October 1950 Alexander Fermor-Hesketh 3rd Baron Hesketh was born to Frederick Fermor-Hesketh 2nd Baron Hesketh (age 34).
On 28th October 1407 John Greystoke 4th Baron Greystoke (age 18) and Elizabeth Ferrers Baroness Greystoke (age 14) were married at Greystoke Castle, Cumberland. She by marriage Baroness Greystoke. She the daughter of Robert Ferrers and Joan Beaufort Countess of Westmoreland (age 28). They were fifth cousins. She a great granddaughter of King Edward III of England.
On 28th October 1449 Christian I King of Denmark (age 23) and Dorothea of Brandenburg (age 18) were married.
On 28th October 1533 King Henry II of France (age 14) and Catherine Medici Queen Consort France (age 14) were married. She by marriage Queen Consort of France. He the son of King Francis I of France (age 39) and Claude Valois Orléans Queen Consort France. They were sixth cousins.
On 28th October 1619 Robert Maxwell 1st Earl Nithsdale (age 33) and Elizabeth Beaumont Countess Nithsdale were married. He the son of John Maxwell 1st Earl Morton and Elizabeth Douglas Countess Morton.
On 28th October 1662 Richard Jones 1st Earl Ranelagh (age 21) and Elizabeth Willoughby Countess Ranelagh (age 29) were married.
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 28th October 1669 Charles Moore 2nd Earl Drogheda and Letitia Robartes Countess Drogheda (age 19) were married. She the daughter of John Robartes 1st Earl Radnor (age 63) and Letitia Isabella Smythe Countess Radnor (age 39). He the son of Henry Moore 1st Earl Drogheda (age 47) and Alice Spencer Countess Drogheda (age 43). They were fourth cousins.
On 28th October 1687 John Buckworth 1st Baronet (age 25) and Elizabeth Hall Lady Buckworth were married at Westminster Abbey [Map].
On 28th October 1742 William Graham 2nd Duke Montrose (age 30) and Lucy Manners Duchess Montrose (age 25) were married. She by marriage Duchess Montrose. She the daughter of John Manners 2nd Duke Rutland and Lucy Sherard Duchess Rutland (age 57). He the son of James Graham 1st Duke Montrose.
On 28th October 1750 Thomas Hamilton 7th Earl Haddington (age 29) and Mary Lloyd Countess Rothes were married.
On 28th October 1751 William Chetwynd 4th Viscount Chetwynd (age 29) and Susannah Cope were married.
On 28th October 1853 Charles Montolieu Lamb 2nd Baronet (age 68) and Frances Margesson Lady Lamb were married. She by marriage Lady Burges of Burghfield.
On 28th October 1882 John George Lambton 3rd Earl Durham (age 27) and Ethel Milner Countess Durham (age 32) were married. She by marriage Countess Durham. There was no issue from the marriage. He the son of George Frederick D'Arcy Lambton 2nd Earl Durham and Beatrix Frances Hamilton Countess Durham.
On 28th October 1905 John Francis Granville Scrope Egerton 4th Earl Ellesmere (age 32) and Violet Lambton Countess Ellesmere (age 25) were married. She the daughter of Frederick Lambton 4th Earl Durham (age 50) and Beatrix Bulteel Countess Durham (age 46). He the son of Francis Egerton 3rd Earl Ellesmere (age 58) and Katherine Louisa Phipps Countess Ellesmere (age 55). They were half fifth cousin once removed.
On 28th October 1907 Francis Curzon 5th Earl Howe (age 23) and Mary Curzon Countess Howe (age 19) were married. They divorced in 1937. He the son of Richard George Penn Curzon 4th Earl Howe (age 46) and Georgiana Elizabeth Spencer-Churchill Countess Howe. They were half first cousin once removed.
On 28th October 994 Archbishop Sigeric died.
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 28th October 998 Sigfried of Luxemburg Count of Ardennes (age 76) died. His son Henry succeeded I Count Luxemburg.
On 28th October 1323 John Grey 2nd Baron Grey of Wilton (age 55) died at Wilton, Herefordshire. His son Henry (age 41) succeeded 3rd Baron Grey of Wilton.
On 28th October 1521 Richard Grey 12th Baron Grey of Wilton (age 14) died. His brother William (age 12) succeeded 13th Baron Grey of Wilton.
On 28th October 1546 James Butler 9th Earl Ormonde 2nd Earl Ossory (age 45) died. His son Thomas (age 14) succeeded 10th Earl Ormonde, 3rd Earl Ossory.
On 28th October 1562 George Gordon 4th Earl Huntley (age 48) died. His son George succeeded 5th Earl Huntley. Anne Hamilton Countess Huntley (age 27) by marriage Countess Huntley.
On 28th October 1571 William Parr 1st Marquess Northampton (age 59) died at Warwick Priory, Warwickshire [Map]. He was buried in the Chancel of St Mary's Church, Warwick [Map]. His funeral was paid for by Queen Elizabeth I of England and Ireland (age 38). Marquess Northampton and Earl Essex, Baron Parr of Kendal extinct.
On 28th October 1572 John Erskine 18th Earl of Mar died at Stirling [Map]. His son John (age 10) succeeded 19th Earl Mar. Anne Drummond Countess Mar (age 17) by marriage Countess Mar.
On 28th October 1586 John Günther Schwarzburg 1st Count of Schwarzburg Sondershausen (age 53) died.
On 28th October 1596 Katherine Neville Countess Northumberland (age 51) died.
On 28th October 1613 George St Paul 1st Baronet (age 51) died. Baronet St Paul in Snarford in Lincolnshire extinct.
On 28th October 1628 Richard Preston 1st Earl Desmond was drowned whilst travelling between Dublin [Map] and Holyhead, Anglesey.
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 28th October 1633 Anne Doyley Baroness Gower died. She was buried at St Clement Danes Church, Westminster [Map].
On 28th October 1635 William Keith 6th Earl Marischal (age 50) died. His son William succeeded 7th Earl Marischal.
On 28th October 1638 Robert Petre 3rd Baron Petre (age 39) died. His son William (age 12) succeeded 4th Baron Petre.
On 28th October 1680 Bishop John Hacket (age 88) died.
On 28th October 1708 Prince George of Denmark 1st Duke Cumberland (age 55) died without surviving issue. Duke Cumberland extinct.
On 28th October 1723 Christopher Vane 1st Baron Barnard (age 70) died at Shipbourne, Kent. His son Gilbert (age 45) succeeded 2nd Baron Barnard.
On 28th October 1755 Henry Hicks 3rd Baronet (age 89) died. His son Robert succeeded 4th Baronet Hicks of Beverston in Gloucestershire.
On 28th October 1756 Charles Noel Somerset 4th Duke Beaufort (age 47) died. He was buried at St Michael and all Angels Church, Badminton. His son Henry (age 12) succeeded 5th Duke Beaufort, 7th Marquess Worcester, 11th Earl Worcester, 13th Baron Herbert of Raglan.
On 28th October 1758 Edward Moore 5th Earl Drogheda (age 57) died at sea whilst travelling between Holyhead and Dublin. His son Charles (age 28) succeeded 6th Earl Drogheda, 8th Viscount Moore of Drogheda, 8th Baron Moore of Mellefont in Louth. Anne Seymour-Conway Countess Drogheda (age 14) by marriage Countess Drogheda.
On 28th October 1793 Thomas Fitzmaurice Earl Orkney (age 51) died.
The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy
The Gesta Normannorum Ducum [The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy] is a landmark medieval chronicle tracing the rise and fall of the Norman dynasty from its early roots through the pivotal events surrounding the Norman Conquest of England. Originally penned in Latin by the monk William of Jumièges shortly before 1060 and later expanded at the behest of William the Conqueror, the work chronicles the deeds, politics, battles, and leadership of the Norman dukes, especially William’s own claim to the English throne. The narrative combines earlier historical sources with firsthand information and oral testimony to present an authoritative account of Normandy’s transformation from a Viking settlement into one of medieval Europe’s most powerful realms. William’s history emphasizes the legitimacy, military prowess, and governance of the Norman line, framing their expansion, including the conquest of England, as both divinely sanctioned and noble in purpose. Later chroniclers such as Orderic Vitalis and Robert of Torigni continued the history, extending the coverage into the 12th century, providing broader context on ducal rule and its impact. Today this classic work remains a foundational source for understanding Norman identity, medieval statesmanship, and the historical forces that reshaped England and Western Europe between 800AD and 1100AD.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 28th October 1831 John Gregory Shaw 5th Baronet (age 75) died. His son John (age 48) succeeded 6th Baronet Shaw of Eltham in Kent.
On 12th October 1837 Roger Gresley 8th Baronet (age 37) died. He was buried at St George and St Mary's Church, Church Gresley on 28th October 1837. His first cousin William (age 31) succeeded 9th Baronet Gresley of Drakelow in Derbyshire.
On 28th October 1846 George Wombwell 2nd Baronet (age 77) died. His son George (age 54) succeeded 3rd Baronet Wombwell of Wombwell in Yorkshire.
On 28th October 1852 Harriet Emma Arundel Stewart (age 52) died.
On 28th October 1853 Valentine Lawless 2nd Baron Cloncurry (age 80) died.
On 28th October 1907 Charles Henry Wilson 1st Baron Nunburnholme (age 74) died. His son Charles (age 32) succeeded 2nd Baron Nunburnholme. Marjorie Cecilia Wynn-Carington Baroness Willoughby of Parham (age 27) by marriage Baroness Willoughby Parham.
On 28th October 1908 Ponsonby William Moore 9th Earl of Drogheda (age 62) died. His son Henry (age 24) succeeded 10th Earl Drogheda, 12th Viscount Moore of Drogheda, 12th Baron Moore of Mellefont in Louth.
On 28th October 1910 John Adams Acton (age 79) died.
On 28th October 1913 William Wells Addington 3rd Viscount Sidmouth (age 89) died. His son Gerald (age 59) succeeded 4th Viscount Sidmouth.
On 28th October 1915 Horatia Isabella Harriet Morier Duchess Somerset (age 96) died.
On 28th October 1915 Thomas Fowell Buxton 3rd Baronet (age 78) died. His son Thomas (age 50) succeeded 4th Baronet Buxton of Belfield in Dorset.
The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy
The Gesta Normannorum Ducum [The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy] is a landmark medieval chronicle tracing the rise and fall of the Norman dynasty from its early roots through the pivotal events surrounding the Norman Conquest of England. Originally penned in Latin by the monk William of Jumièges shortly before 1060 and later expanded at the behest of William the Conqueror, the work chronicles the deeds, politics, battles, and leadership of the Norman dukes, especially William’s own claim to the English throne. The narrative combines earlier historical sources with firsthand information and oral testimony to present an authoritative account of Normandy’s transformation from a Viking settlement into one of medieval Europe’s most powerful realms. William’s history emphasizes the legitimacy, military prowess, and governance of the Norman line, framing their expansion, including the conquest of England, as both divinely sanctioned and noble in purpose. Later chroniclers such as Orderic Vitalis and Robert of Torigni continued the history, extending the coverage into the 12th century, providing broader context on ducal rule and its impact. Today this classic work remains a foundational source for understanding Norman identity, medieval statesmanship, and the historical forces that reshaped England and Western Europe between 800AD and 1100AD.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 28th October 1917 Constance Gwladys Herbert Marchioness Ripon (age 58) died.
On 28th October 1921 Henry Reynolds-Moreton 3rd Earl of Ducie (age 94) died. His brother Berkeley (age 87) succeeded 4th Earl Ducie, 7th Baron Ducie.
On 28th October 1931 Ethel Milner Countess Durham (age 81) died.
On 28th October 1931 George Gibbs 1st Baron Wraxall (age 58) died. His son Richard (age 3) succeeded 2nd Baron Wraxall of Clyst St George in Devon.
On 28th October 1934 Moubray St John 19th Baron St John (age 56) died. His son John (age 17) succeeded 20th Baron St John of Bletso, 17th Baronet St John of Woodford in Northamptonshire.
On 28th October 1945 Thomas Fowell Buxton 5th Baronet (age 55) died. His son Thomas (age 20) succeeded 6th Baronet Buxton of Belfield in Dorset.
On 28th October 1946 Henry Champion de Crespigny 6th Baronet (age 64) died unmarried. His brother Frederick (age 61) succeeded 7th Baronet Champion de Crespigny of Champion Lodge in Surrey.
On 28th October 1955 Arthur Du Cros 1st Baronet (age 84) died. His son Philip (age 57) succeeded 2nd Baronet Du Cros of Canons in Middlesex.
On 28th October 1962 Roland Cubitt 3rd Baron Ashcombe (age 63) died. His son Henry (age 38) succeeded 4th Baron Ashcombe of Dorking in Surrey and Bodiam Castle in Sussex.
On 28th October 2021 Thomas Stockdale 2nd Baronet (age 81) died. His son John (age 54) succeeded 3rd Baronet Hoddington in Hampshire.