2nd Millennium, 16th Century Events, May 1536-1540 Jane Seymour Bigod's Rebellion and the Exeter Conspiracy

May 1536-1540 Jane Seymour Bigod's Rebellion and the Exeter Conspiracy is in 16th Century Events.

2nd Millennium, 16th Century Events, May 1536-1540 Jane Seymour Bigod's Rebellion and the Exeter Conspiracy, Betrothal of Henry VIII and Jane Seymour

On 20 May 1536 Henry VIII (age 44) and Queen Jane Seymour (age 27) were betrothed the day after Anne Boleyn had been beheaded.

2nd Millennium, 16th Century Events, May 1536-1540 Jane Seymour Bigod's Rebellion and the Exeter Conspiracy, Marriage of Henry VIII and Jane Seymour

Hall's Chronicle 1536. 30 May 1536. The weke before Whytsontyde the King (age 44) maried lady Jane (age 27) doughter to the ryght worshipfull Sir Jhon Seymer (age 62) knyght, which at Whitsontyde was openly showed as Queen.

2nd Millennium, 16th Century Events, May 1536-1540 Jane Seymour Bigod's Rebellion and the Exeter Conspiracy, 1536 Neville Triple Wedding

On 02 Jul 1536 three weddings between the Neville, and Manners and Vere families, were celebrated at one mass at Holywell Priory [Map]:

Henry Neville 5th Earl of Westmoreland (age 11) and Anne Manners Countess of Westmoreland (age 9) were married. They were half fourth cousins. She a great x 5 granddaughter of King Edward III of England 1312-1377. She the daughter of Thomas Manners 1st Earl of Rutland (age 44) and Eleanor Paston Countess Rutland (age 41). He the son of Ralph Neville 4th Earl of Westmoreland (age 38) and Katherine Stafford Countess of Westmoreland (age 37).

Henry Manners 2nd Earl of Rutland (age 9) and Margaret Neville Countess Rutland were married. They were half fourth cousins. He a great x 5 grandson of King Edward III of England 1312-1377. She the daughter of Ralph Neville 4th Earl of Westmoreland (age 38) and Katherine Stafford Countess of Westmoreland (age 37). He the son of Thomas Manners 1st Earl of Rutland (age 44) and Eleanor Paston Countess Rutland (age 41).

John de Vere 16th Earl of Oxford (age 20) and Dorothy Neville Countess of Oxford were married. She the daughter of Ralph Neville 4th Earl of Westmoreland (age 38) and Katherine Stafford Countess of Westmoreland (age 37). He the son of John de Vere 15th Earl of Oxford (age 65) and Elizabeth Trussell Countess of Oxford.

Those present included Thomas Audley 1st Baron Audley Walden (age 48), Thomas Howard 3rd Duke of Norfolk (age 63), Charles Brandon 1st Duke of Suffolk (age 52), Henry Grey 1st Duke of Suffolk (age 19), Henry Courtenay 1st Marquess Exeter (age 40), John de Vere 15th Earl of Oxford (age 65) and Ralph Neville 4th Earl of Westmoreland (age 38).

2nd Millennium, 16th Century Events, May 1536-1540 Jane Seymour Bigod's Rebellion and the Exeter Conspiracy, Pilgrimage of Grace

Hall's Chronicle 1536. Around Jun 1536.After this boke which passed by the Kinges aucthoritie wyth the consent of the Clergie, was published, the which contayned certaine articles of religion necessary to be taught unto the people, and amonge other it specially treated of no more then thre Sacramentes, wher alwayes the people had bene taught vii. Sacramentes, and besyde this boke, certaine Injunccions were that tymc geven wherby a number of their holy days was abrogated and specially such as fel in the harvest time, the kcpingc of whych was much to the hynderaunce of the gatheringe in of corne, haye, fruyte, and other such lyke necessary and profitable commodities.

Around Oct 1536 the North rose against religious policies of Henry VIII (age 45). Thomas Audley 1st Baron Audley Walden (age 48) condemned the traitors. John Neville 3rd Baron Latimer (age 42) was implicated. Thomas Howard 3rd Duke of Norfolk (age 63), Henry Howard (age 20) and Edmund Knyvet (age 28) undertook the suppression of the rebels.

On 12 May 1537 Abbot Adam Sedbar (age 35) was captured. He was imprisoned in the Beauchamp Tower, Tower of London [Map] where his inscribed name on the wall "ADAM SEDBAR. ABBAS JOREVALL 1537" can still be seen.

Around 30 May 1537 the Abbots of Fountains Abbey [Map], Marmaduke Bradley, and Gisborough Priory [Map], Robert Pursglove, were hanged, drawn and quartered at Tyburn [Map] for their role in the Pilgrimage of Grace. Their heads were displayed on London Bridge [Map].

On 02 Jun 1537 Abbot Adam Sedbar (age 35) and Prior William Wood were hanged, drawn and quartered at Tyburn [Map] for their role in the Pilgrimage of Grace. Their heads were displayed on London Bridge [Map].

On 20 Nov 1539 Nicholas Tempest of Holmeside (age 53) was hanged for his part in the Pilgrimage of Grace.

2nd Millennium, 16th Century Events, May 1536-1540 Jane Seymour Bigod's Rebellion and the Exeter Conspiracy, Execution of the Fitzgeralds

Hall's Chronicle 1537. 03 Feb 1537. The third day of February was Thomas Fitz Garrad (age 24) late earle of Kildare and fyve of his uncles drawen, hanged and quartered at Tiborne [Map] for hygh treason.

On 03 Feb 1537 the six Fitzgeralds, nephew and five uncles, Thomas "Silken" Fitzgerald 10th Earl of Kildare (age 24), James Fitzgerald (age 41), Oliver Fitzgerald (age 41), Richard Fitzgerald, John Fitzgerald and Walter Fitzgerald (age 41) were executed at Tyburn [Map].

2nd Millennium, 16th Century Events, May 1536-1540 Jane Seymour Bigod's Rebellion and the Exeter Conspiracy, Bigod's Rebellion

Hall's Chronicle 1537. Dec 1536. Also in the latter ende of thys yere, the lord Darcy (age 69), Aske (age 36), Sir Robert constable (age 58), Sir Jhon Bulmer and his wyfe (age 25), Sir Thomas Percie (age 32) brother to the Erie of Northumberland (age 34), Syr Stephyn Hamelton, Nicholas Tempest (age 56) Esquyer, William Lomley, sonne to the lord Lomley (age 44) began agayn to conspyre, although they before had every one of them their pardons, and now they wer all taken and brought to the Tower of London [Map].

In Jan 1537 Bigod's Rebellion was an armed rebellion by Catholics in Cumberland and Westmoreland against Henry VIII (age 45). It was led by Francis Bigod (age 29).

After Jan 1537. The rebellion failed. The rebels arrested, convicted of treason, and subsequently executed during the course of 1537. A total of 216 rebels were executed.

On 17 Jan 1537 Thomas Darcy 1st Baron Darcy Templehurst (age 70) wrote to Robert Aske (age 37) and Robert Constable (age 59) ... Of Sir Fras Bigod (age 29) I heard, this day at dinner, as you wrote; and more, that Hallum was taken at Hull yesterday with a letter in his purse from Sir Francis Bigod (age 29) promising that he and all the West Base Countries would rise and come forward. This day with my servant, Alan Gefreyson, I sent you my news which are of such bruits, rages, and furies as the like I have not read nor heard of. I sent to my cousin Ellerker and Whartton for the premises concerning Hull. My advice is that you stay the people till the coming of my lord of Norfolk (age 64), which, I hear, shall be shortly, and all the gentlemen that is above of the North with him. He brings gracious answers of the Parliament and petitions. Good Mr. Aske, where you write desiring me to stay my quarters; there has yet been no stir in my rooms and lands, but what was caused by other wild countries and dales. I shall do my duty, and play my part therein, though I lie in my bed. I hear my lord of Cumberland is likely to have business for two prisoners he keeps.

On 18 Jan 1537 Francis Bigod (age 29) ... "Though the commons at first had me in suspicion for my learning and conversation with such a lewd one as they judged were enemies both to Christ's Church and the commonwealth, and I was even in danger of my life at Pountefrett [Map], they have now the greatest confidence in me. Now messengers come from Bishopric, Richmondshire, and the West, for me to go forward with the commons, especially to bring John Halom, whom the mayor of Hull has imprisoned, to their great offence. I have sworn to go with the commons having good reason to doubt the Duke of Norfolk is coming rather to bring them to captivity like those of Lincolnshire than to fulfil our petitions. There is no man they trust so much as Constable whom Bygott would gladly join and follow his advice, if he will be true to them." He begs an answer and sends a copy of their oath.

Hall's Chronicle 1537. Feb 1537. Also in the sayth moneth, Nichol Musgrave, Thomas Tilbie, with other began a new rebellion at Kirbie Staphan [Map] in Westmerland wyth eight thousand persones, and besieged the citie of Carlile [Map], from whence thei were beaten, with the only power of the citie, and in their returning the Duke of Norffolke (age 64), who then was made liuetenaunt of the North encountred with them, and toke the Capitaines, and according to the law marcial, arreigned threscore and fourtene of them, and hanged them on Carlile walles, but Musgrave escaped. And in the same moneth of Februarye began yet another insurreccion, by the intysement of Sir Fraunces Bygod (age 29), a man no doubt that loved God, and feared his pryncc, wyth a right obedient and loving fear: but now being deceyved and provoked ther unto by false rebellyous persones, it was his fortune to tast of the ende which apperteigneth to rebelles: such are men when God leaveth them to them selfes, and when they wyl enterpryse the doing of that thinge which Goddes most holy word utterly forbiddeth. This Bigod was apprehended and brought to the tower of London: this laste rebellion began in Setrington, and in Pikerin Leigh, and Scarborough.

On 07 May 1537 Thomas Moigne (age 27) was hanged, drawn and quartered at Lincoln, Lincolnshire [Map].

On 25 May 1537 Margaret Stafford (age 26) was burned at the stake at Smithfield [Map].

Hall's Chronicle 1537. 02 Jun 1537 In June the lord Darcy (age 70) and the lord Hosey [Map] wer arreigned at Westmynster before the Marques of Exceter (age 41), then hygh stuard of England, and thei were both found giltie and had ther judgement as in caces of hygh treason.

After 02 Jun 1537. Shortly after wer also arreigned Sir Robert Constable (age 59), Sir Thomas Percy (age 33), Sir Fraunces Bygod (age 29), Sir Stephin Hamelton, Sir Jhon Bulmer and hys wyfe (deceased), which some reported was not hys wyfe but his paramour, also William Lomley, Nicholas Tempest (age 57), and the Abbottes of Jerney (age 35) and Ryvers, and Robert Aske (age 37), and all founde gyltye of high treason, and al put to death at Tiborne [Map], saving Sir Robert Constable (age 59), which was hanged in chaynes on Beverley gate at Hul and Aske (age 37) was also hanged in chaines in Yorke on a Tower, and Sir Jhon Bulmers Paramour (deceased), was brent [burned] in Smithfclde [Map] in London: [And in the latter ende of June, was the Lord Darcy (age 70) behedded at Tower hyll [Map], and shortly after was the Lord Hosey (age 70) behedded at Lyncolne [Map].

On 02 Jun 1537 Thomas Percy (age 33), Francis Bigod (age 29), and John Bulmer and Ralph Bulmer were hanged at Tyburn [Map].

On 30 Jun 1537 Thomas Darcy 1st Baron Darcy Templehurst (age 70) was beheaded at Tower Hill [Map]. In 1539 he was postumously attainted; Baron Darcy of Darcy aka Templehurst forfeit.

Wriothesley's Chronicle. 30 Jun 1537. This yeare, the 30th daie of June, the Lord Darcye (age 70) was beheaded at the Tower Hill, and his head sett on London Bridge, and his bodie buried at the Crossed Friars beside the Tower of London.

Also the Lord Hussey (deceased) was beheaded at Lyncolne, and Sir Robert Constable (age 59) was hanged at Hull in Yorkeshire in chaines. Aske (age 37) was hanged in the cittie of Yorke in chaines till he died.

Calendars. 3 July.

203. Norfolk to Cromwell.

Calig. B. vii. 224. B. M.

Received yesternight his letter of the 28 June and a packet under the King's Seal. Has appointed all therein named of the West Marches to be with him at York, Friday se'nnight, when Aske (age 37) is to suffer. Before his execution an exhortation to be given. Will take care to satisfy the King.

On 06 Jul 1537 Robert Constable (age 59) was hanged in chains from the Beverley Gate in Kingston upon Hull witnessed by Thomas Howard 3rd Duke Norfolk (age 64).

Calendars. 08 Jul 1537. 228. Cromwell (age 52) to Sir Thos. Wyat (age 34).

Harl. MS. 282, f. 205. B. M. Nott's Wyatt, 316.

Writes this by George Pery, a gentleman of M. Chappuys, the Emperor's ambassador. Here at Stepney this morning arrived Rougecroix the herald with Wyat's letters dated 24 June. Forwarded them straightway to the King at Oking. Thanks him for his letters written at his first arrival before he had audience and for those now received. Touching communications with the Emperor's ambassadors, of which Cromwell wrote by M. de Vauldray, hopes for a good result. No news since last writing. The traitors have been executed, lord Darcy (deceased) at Tower Hill and lord Hussey (deceased) at Lincoln, Aske (age 37) hanged upon the dungeon of York Castle, Sir Robt. Constable (deceased) hanged at Hull, and the rest at Thyfbourne; so that all the cankered hearts are weeded away.

On 12 Jul 1537 Robert Aske (age 37) was hanged in chains at Clifford's Tower. The date may have been Friday 06 Jul as implied by the letters of the Duke of Norfolk?

George aka William Lumley and Nicholas Tempest (age 57) were hanged at Tyburn [Map].

Calendars. 20 Jul 1537. 292. Richard Coren to Cromwell.

R. O. St. P. i. 557.

Excuses his slack letters by his absence from my lord of Norfolk at the expedition of the last post. Was present at Aske's (deceased) execution, as well as at that of Sir Robert Constable (deceased), which no doubt Thomas Hossy has described. Noted in both men "that they thought a religion to keep secret between God and them certain things rather than open their whole stomach; from the which opinion I could not abduce them." For Robert Aske's demeanour, refers to the schedule enclosed. Sherifhoton, 20 July.

ii. Goods which Robert Aske had during the commotion, whereof no satisfaction is made, to his remembrance.

First, Mr. Lacy sent to him to Hull 10l. of Dr. Halsworth's goods, and an obligation of the abbot of Kirkstead, Linc, which the subprior of Watton had. 2. The vicar of Braton sent him 10 sheep and 30s., but of whose goods he knows not. 3. Had sent from Drake Abbey to Wresill 10 or 12 qrs. of oats and 3 qrs. of wheat. 4. From Wato[n], 40 sheep. 5. Had of Mr. Krake's goods, sheep to the value of 4l. 10s. Thinks that is all he had, "not given and not restored," and begs the King to pay them out of his goods for the discharge of his conscience.

In Aske's hand and subscribed: "This is Ask's own hand delivered unto me, Richard Coren."

St. P. i. 558.

iii. "The saying of Robert Aske to me, Richard Coren, out of confession to-for his death.

"First, he said that my lord Darcy (deceased) did tell him that he had spoken with the emperor's ambassador concerning his purpose in this late rebellion, for the causes of the Church, as he said, and that the said ambassador should encourage him unto the same, saying that he should lack none help."

2. Lord Darcy (deceased), Sir Robt. Constable (deceased), and he were about to send Doctor Marmaduke to the Council in Flanders for aid and ordnance.

3. That my lord Privy Seal "did not bear so great favour to my lord of Norfolk as he thought he did; which thing I have kept secret from my said lord of Norfolk."

4. When he "should be" laid on the hurdle to be drawn he openly confessed he had offended God, the King, and the world. After this he declared that the King was so gracious that none should be troubled for offences comprised in the pardon. He was then laid on the hurdle and drawn through the notable places of the city "desiring the people ever as he passed by to pray for him."

5. At the place of execution he was taken off the hurdle, repeated like confession, and ascended up into the dungeon to wait the coming of my lord of Norfolk.

6. "Item, there were two things, wherewithal he was aggrieved. The one was, that he said my lord Privy Seal spake a sore word and affirmed it with a stomach, swearing that all the Northern men were but traitors: where-withal he was somewhat offended. The second was that my lord Privy Seal sundry times promised him a pardon of his life, and at one time he had a token from the King's Majesty of pardon for confessing the truth. These two things he showed to no man in these North parts, as he said, but to me only; which I have and will ever keep secret."

7. At Norfolk's arrival Aske ascended the tower to the gallows, repeated his former confession and asked forgiveness of the King, my lord Chancellor, my lord of Norfolk, my lord Privy Seal, my lord of Sussex, and all the world; and after orisons made on the ladder, commended his soul to God.

Pp. 5. All in Coren's hand, except § ii. Add.: Privy Seal. Sealed and endd.

2nd Millennium, 16th Century Events, May 1536-1540 Jane Seymour Bigod's Rebellion and the Exeter Conspiracy, Birth and Christening Edward VI

Wriothesley's Chronicle. 12 Oct 1537. And the morrowe after, being Fridaie and the eaven of Sainct Edwarda, sometime King of Englande, at tow of the clocke in the mominge the Quecne [was] delivered of a man chieldeb at Hampton Court beside Kingston. And the same daie, at eight of the clocke in the morning, Te Deum was songe in everie parish church throughout Londonc, with all the bells ringing in everie church, and great fiars made in everie streete; and at 9 of the clocke their was assembled at Ponies all the orders of friars, monkes, channons, priestes, and clarkes about London, standing all about Paules in rich copes, with the best crosses and candlestickes of everie parrishe church in London; the Bishopp of London, the Bishopp of Chichestre, Deane of Poules, and the Abbott of West- minster being mitred, the said Bishopp and Deane of Paules making a collation to the people at the quire dore of Poules, the French Kinges embassadour being present, the Lord Chauncelor of Englande, the Lord Privie Scale, the Lorde Marques Dorsett, with all the judges and serjeantes of the lawe; the Major of London, with the orderman [aldermen] and sherives, with all the craftes of London, standing in their liveries: and after the said collation Poules quire song an attempncd of the Trinitie, with Te Deum, and the 9th responde of the Trinitie, with the colect of the same. Then the Kinges waites and the waites of London plaied with the shalmes; and after that a great peale of gonnea were shott at the Tower of London, all which solempnitie was donne to give laude and prayse to God for joy of our prince.

October 12th. Circular letters, in the Queen's name and under her signet, were prepared, announcing the birth of Prince Edward. One of them, addressed to the Lord Privy Seal, and dated on that day at Hampton Court, is now in the British Museum, Nero, C. x. leaf 7.

Note b. The story of Edward's being brought into the world by surgical art, and at the sacrifice jof his mother's life, seems to haye been invented by Nicolas Sanders, the Jesuit, from whom it was borrowed by Sir John Hayward, and adopted in his life of Edward VI. - See Kennett's Hist. Engl. vol. ii. p. 273. From this source it found its way into various historical books. The error apparently originated through the Queen's death having been assigned to the 14th, only two days after her deliyery, instead of to the 24th. - See p. 69 of this Chronicle.

Note c. As the King had caused his two daughters by his former marriages to be declared illegitimate, nothing could be more acceptable than the birth of a son which put the succession of the Crown out of all dispute.

Note d. Anthem.

Hall's Chronicle 1537. 12 Oct 1537. In Octobre on saynct Edwardes even was borne at Hampton court [Map] the noble Impe Prince Edward, whose Godfathers at the Christening were the Archebishop of Cauntorburie (age 48), and the duke of Norffolke (age 64) and hys God-mother the Lady Mary (age 21) the Kinges doughtcr, and at the byshoping was Godfather the duke of Suffolke (age 53). At the byrth of this noble Prince was great fyres made through the whole realme and great Joye made wyth thankesgcving to almighty God, which had sent so noble a prince to succede in the croune of this realme:

On 12 Oct 1537 King Edward VI of England and Ireland was born to Henry VIII (age 46) and Queen Jane Seymour (age 28) at Hampton Court Palace, Richmond [Map]. George Owen (age 38) assisted as Physician.

Wriothesley's Chronicle. 15 Oct 1537. This yeare, the 25thd daie of October, being Moundaie, the Prince was christened in the Kinges chappell at Hampton Court, the Archbishopp of Canterberie (age 48) and the Duke of Norfoike (age 64) godfathers at the font, and my Ladie Maries grace (age 21), the Kinges daughter by Queene Katherin, godmotherb, and the Duke of Suffolke, godfather at the confirmation, the Princes name being Edwarde, proclaymed after his christning by the King of Haroldesa, "Edward, sonne and heire to the King of Englande, Duke of Cornewall, and Earle of Chester." The goodlie solempnitie of the lordes and ladies done at the christning was a goodlie sight to behoulde, everie one after their office and degree; the Ladie Elizabeth (age 4), the Kinges daughter, bearing the chrisome on her breast, the Viscoumpt Beauchampe (age 37), brother to the Queeneb, bearing her in his armes, the Earle of Essex (age 52) bearing the salte, the Ladie Marques of Exceter (age 34) bearing the Prince to the church and home againe, the Duke of Norfolke (age 64) staying his head, as she bare him, and the Duke of Suffolke (age 53) at his feete.

Note d. Evidently a clerical error for the 15th, which was Monday, whereas the 25th would haye been Thursday.

Note e. It is cnrions to note the incongruity of the sponsors: these were Archbishop Cranmer (age 48), the head of the Protestant Reformers, the Duke of Norfolk (age 64), leader of the lay Catholics, and the Princess Mary (age 21), a bigoted Catholic, who had been bastardised by her father.

Note a. Thomas Hawley, Clarencieux King-at-Arms.

Note b. Edward Seymour (age 37), elder brother of Queen Jane, and so brother-in-law of Henry VIII. was created Viscount Beauchomp, of Hache, co. Somerset, 5th June, 1536. He was lineally descended from Sir Roger Seymour (temp. Edward III.) who married Cicely, sister and eldest coheir of John de Beauchamp, last Baron Beauchamp.

On 15 Oct 1537 the future Edward VI was christened by Bishop John Stokesley (age 62) at the Chapel Royal in Hampton Court Palace [Map]. Archbishop Thomas Cranmer (age 48) performed the Baptismal Rites, and was appointed Godfather. Thomas Howard 3rd Duke of Norfolk (age 64) and Queen Mary I of England and Ireland (age 21) were Godparents.

King Edward VI of England and Ireland was created Duke Cornwall, 1st Earl Chester.

Henry Bourchier 2nd Earl Essex 3rd Count Eu carried the Salt. Charles Brandon 1st Duke of Suffolk (age 53) was Godfather and supported the Marchioness of Exeter. Richard Long (age 43) was knighted. Thomas Cromwell 1st Earl Essex (age 52), Philip Boteler (age 45), John de Vere 15th Earl of Oxford (age 66) and John Gage (age 57) attended. Mary Scrope (age 61) carried Lady Mary's train. Robert Radclyffe 1st Earl of Sussex (age 54) carried a covered basin. Robert Radclyffe 1st Earl of Sussex (age 54) carried the canopy.

Edward Seymour 1st Duke Somerset (age 37) helped his young niece the future Elizabeth I to carry the Crisom. Henry Courtenay 1st Marquess Exeter (age 41) supported his wife Gertrude Blount Marchioness of Exeter (age 34) to carry the child. Thomas Boleyn 1st Earl Wiltshire and Ormonde (age 60) bore a taper of virgin wax. William Fitzalan 18th Earl Arundel (age 61) carried the train of the Prince's robe. Christopher Barker Garter King of Arms proclaimed the Prince's titles. Arthur Hopton (age 48) attended.

Edward Seymour 1st Duke Somerset (age 37) was created 1st Earl Hertford.

Nicholas Carew (age 41), Francis Bryan, Anthony Browne (age 37) and John Russell 1st Earl Bedford (age 52) surrounded the font.

Henry Knyvet of Charlton Wiltshire (age 27), Edward Neville (age 66), Thomas Seymour 1st Baron Seymour (age 29), Richard Long (age 43) and John Wallop (age 47) carried the canopy.

Bishop Robert Parfew aka Warton and Bishop John Bell attended.

William Fitzwilliam 1st Earl of Southampton (age 47) was created 1st Earl of Southampton. Mabel Clifford Countess Southampton (age 55) by marriage Countess of Southampton.

Wriothesley's Chronicle. 18 Oct 1837. Also, on Saint Lukes daiec, being Thursdaie, the Prince was proclaymed at the court "Edward, sonne and heire to King Henrie the Eight, Prince of Wales, Duke of Comewall, and Earle of Chesterd." Also the King made that daie tow earles and six knightes, that is to saie: Mr. Fittes Williams, Lord Admirall and Vice-Treasorer, was made Earle of Hamptone, and the Queenes brother, Viscount Beawchamp, was made Earle of Hertfordef and Mr. Powlett was made Vice-Treasorer,a and Sir John Russell, Controler of the Kinges howse, Mr. Henageb, Mr. Longc, and Mr. Knevett of the Kinges Privie Chamber, knightes, and Mr. Coffin, and Mr. Listred, knightes and Mr. Semere, the Queenes brother, knight..

Note c. October 18th.

Note d. This passage would seem to countenance the common account that the infant prince was almost immediately invested with these titles, whereas he himself tells us in his journal that he was only about to be created so when his father died, in which he is confirmed by Burnet, who says that Edward was called Prince of Wales, as the heirs to this crown are, yet he was not invested with that dignity by a formal creation.

Note e. William Fitzwilliam, descended from the ancestor of the present Earl Fitswilliam, was created Earl of Southampton, October 18th, 1537.

Note f. By which title he is known until the accession, in 1547, of his nephew Edward VI. when he was created Duke of Somerset, and was made Lord Protector of the Kingdom.

Note a. Sir William Poulet, Comptroller of the Household, was made Treasurer of the Household in 1587, when the Comptrollership was conferred on Sir John Russell, Gentleman of the Privy Chamber, who eventually became first Earl of Bedford.

Note b. Thomas Hennage.

Note c. Richard Long, Master of the Buckhonnds.

Note d. Richard Lister, Chief Baron of the Exchequer.

Note e. The Queen's younger brother, Thomas Seymour.

2nd Millennium, 16th Century Events, May 1536-1540 Jane Seymour Bigod's Rebellion and the Exeter Conspiracy, Death of Jane Seymour

Hall's Chronicle 1537. 14 Oct 1537. But Lord what lamentacion shortly after was made for the death of his noble and gracious mother Queen Jane (age 28), which departed out of this lyfe the fourtene day of Octobre, next folowing: and of none in the realme was it more heavelier taken then of the Kinges Majeiste (age 46) himself, whose death caused the King imediatly to remove unto Westminster, wher he mourned and kepte him self close and secret a great while:

On 24 Oct 1537 Queen Jane Seymour (age 28) died at Hampton Court Palace [Map] at two in the morning as a result of complications arising childbirth.

2nd Millennium, 16th Century Events, May 1536-1540 Jane Seymour Bigod's Rebellion and the Exeter Conspiracy, Funeral of Jane Seymour

Hall's Chronicle 1537. 08 Nov 1537. And the eyght daye of Novembre the Corpes of the Queen was caryed to Windsore wythe great solemnity, and there was buryed in the middes of the queer in the Castel Churche [Map]: And at the same time was made in Poules a solempne herce for her, wher was Masse and dirige, and in lyke maner was song Masse and dirige in every parish church in London.

Calendars. 12 Nov 1537. Monday, 12 Nov., the corpse was removed to a chair drawn by six chariot horses, and four banners were borne by four barons (not named). Banners (described) were also borne by Chester, Windsor, Richmond, and Lancaster heralds, by Sir Thos. Denys, Gregory Crumwell, Sir Wm. Godolphyn, Sir John Sandes, Ric. Crumwell and Ric. Manners. Assistants about the corpse and chair:—Duke of Suffolk, Marquis Dorset, and earls of Surrey, Westmorland, Wiltshire and Sussex. To the chief mourner:—lords Montague and Clifford. Gentlemen-ushers:—Hen. Webbe and Thos. Dauncy. Henchmen that sat upon the chariot horses:—Thos. Kempe, Robt. Turwytt, Bennet Lee, and John Hastynges. Officers of arms in attendance:— Garter and Clarencieux, kings; York, Chester, Windsor, Richmond, Lancaster and Somerset, heralds; Portcullis, Bluemantle, Rougedragon, Guisnes, Hammes, Berwick and Blaunchlyon, pursuivants. Serjeants-at-arms:—Wm. Rowte, John Gwillm, Walt. Chalcote, Thos. Dawtry, Wm. Uxley, Geo. Warrenne, Ric. Raynshowe, Wm. Clerke, John Stoner, Ralph Framyngham, John Greefelde, Ralph Saintjohn, John up Richards, Edw. Slegge, Nic. Jacsoune. Everything being in order the procession started, Gregory Lovell and Robt. Hawkes leading the way, with black staves, followed by 200 poor men wearing the Queen's badges, who at Colbrooke, Exton (sic, Eton), and Windsor stood on each side of the street with their torches. Then came minstrels and trumpets, strangers and ambassadors' servants, the cross with priests, knights, chaplains, abbots, barons and bishops, councillors and head officers, viscounts and earls. Lord Cromwell lord Privy Seal with the French ambassador Mons. de Schatelon. The lord Chancellor with the ambassador of the Emperor "last come." The cross of the archbishop of Canterbury borne before him by his chaplain; and he himself with the Emperor's ambassador "longest being here." Then Clarencieux and Garter, the Queen's almoner, the chamberlains to the King and Queen, the earl of Oxford, High-Chamberlain, the duke of Norfolk, High-Marshal. Then the corpse surrounded by banners borne by Sir Wm. Muschame, lord Hungerford, lord Mordaunt, lord Bray and lord Mountjoy; assisted by the earls of Sussex and Westmorland, marquis Dorset, the earls of Wiltshire and Surrey and duke of Suffolk. Then my lady Mary, chief mourner, her horse trapped in black velvet and assisted by lords Clifford and Montague. Noble ladies following, in the first chair:—Lady Fraunces, the countesses of Oxford, Rutland, Sussex, Bath, and Southampton, and lady Margaret Howard. In the 2nd (described) the countess of Derby, widow, and ladies Margaret Gray, Rochford (age 32), and Carowe, followed by ladies Morley, Dawbeney, Dudley, Owtred, Browne, Pawlet, Russell, and Baynton. The 3rd chair containing ladies Cobham, Bray, Kingston, and Coffyn; followed by ladies Knevet, Wollope, Henage, and Lyster, Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Jernyngham, Mrs. Stoner, and Mrs. Francis Aylmer. The 4th chair containing Mrs. Souche, Mrs. Hollande, Mrs. Asheley, Mrs. Norres, and Mrs. Parre; and followed by Mrs. Darcy, Mrs. Pexsall, Mrs. Clarencieux, Mrs. Carowe, Mrs. Poyntes, Mrs. Cromwell, Mrs. Boynton, and Mrs. Tymeo. The 5th chair containing Mrs. Fitzherbart, Mrs. Bassett, Mrs. Rastall, Mrs. Uxbryge, and Mrs. Joscelyn. (All other gentlewomen rode on before to await the arrival at Windsor, and the start was to be made at 5 a.m.) After the 5th chariot came Sir Wm. Kingston, the King's vice-chamberlain and captain of the Guard, followed by the Guard—three and three—and all other noblemen's servants. Two almoners were appointed to distribute alms by the way. At Colbroke the corpse was reverently received; and so forth at Eaton, where the bp. of Lincoln, the bp. of Carlisle "provost of the said college," and all the priests, clerks, and children received it with caps and tapers in their hands. At Windsor the mayor and brethren met it at the bridge-foot with lighted torches, and so passed to the College. Describes the hangings on the way from the bridge-foot to the west door and in the choir. The dean of Windsor and all the College met the corpse at the utter gate, and accompanied it to the west door, where the chair was taken out and borne by Sir Henry Savyll, Sir Marm. Constable, Sir Arthur Darcy, Sir John St. John, Sir Henry Parker, Sir Thos. Poyninges, and Sir Thos. Darcy, assisted by Sir Humph. Radclyff, Sir John Gage, Sir Ric. Weston, and Sir Ric. Sandys. A canopy (described) was borne over the corpse by Lord Hastyngs, son and heir to the earl of Huntingdon, and lords Delaware, Morley, Dacres of the South, Cobham and Bray. In the choir was the archbishop of Canterbury, in pontificalibus, assisted by the bishops of London, Lincoln, Chichester, Worcester, Rochester, St. Taxe (St. Asaph), and Carlisle, and the abbots of Westminster, St. Albans, Reading, Waltham, Tower Hill, and Stratford. The chief mourner followed the corpse, having her train borne by the viscountess Rochforde, and assisted by lady Fraunces, the countesses of Oxford, Derby (widow), Rutland, Bath, and Southampton, and lady Margaret Howard. The corpse being passed under the hearse, a Dirige began in which the lessons were read by the prelates in turn (named) and that finished, the nobility went to the Castle. Describes solemn watch that night and services next day, after which the "offering of the palles began" i.e., ladies Bray, Dawbeney, Morley and Cobham offered one each, ladies Margaret Howard, and Marg. Gray two each, the countesses of Southampton, Bath, Sussex, Rutland, Oxford, and Derby three each, lady Fraunces four, and the lady Mary, who was lead between the dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk, seven. That done, the mourners went to the Castle where they were sumptuously provided for, and the corpse was solemnly buried and all finished by 12 o'clock that day.

ii. Liveries given to the officers of arms and payments for diets made to them by Mr. Gostwick.

Pp. 24 in an Elizabethan hand.

2nd Millennium, 16th Century Events, May 1536-1540 Jane Seymour Bigod's Rebellion and the Exeter Conspiracy, Execution of Friar John Forest

Hall's Chronicle 1538. May 1538. In May there was a Freer, called Freer Forest, one of the observaunt freers, but he might have bene more trulier named as after shall appeare, an obstinate Freer, this obstinat Freer had secretly in confessions declared to many of the Kinges subjectes that the King was not supreme heade, and being herof accused and appre- hended, he was examined how he could say that the King was not supreme head of the church, when he himself had sworne to the contrary, he answered that he toke his oth with his outward man, but his inward man never consented therunto: At this answer the lords who examined him loked very straungly at the dissimulacion of the Freer, but being farther accused of diverse heretical and dampnable articles, that he held contrary to the scripture of god, he was after sondry examinacions convinced and confuted, and gladly submitted himselfe to abide the punishment of the church: But upon this his submission, having more libertie then before he had, aswel to talke with whom he would, as also, who that he would to talke with him, certein such outward men as he was so talked wyth him and so incensed him, that the outward Freer was as far from his open submission as ever he was, and when his abjuracion was sent him to read, and loke upon, he utterly refused it, and obstinately stood in all his heresies and treasons before conspired, al gentle meanes that was possible to be sought for his reconciliacion was had, but the more gentler that the magistrates were to him, the more obstinat was the freer, and would neither argue nor answere: wherfore justly he was condempned, and after for him was prepared in Smithfeld [Map] in London a Gallowes on the which he was hanged in chaynes by the middle and armholdes al quyck, and under the gallowes was made a fire, and he so consumed and brent to deth. At his comming to the place of execucion, there was prepared a greate skaffolde, on which sat the nobles of the realme, and the Kinges Majesties mooste honorable counsayle only to have graunted pardon to that wretched creature, yf any spark of repentaunce woulde have happened in him: ther was also prepared a Pulpit where a right reverend father in God and a renoumed and famous Clerck the bishop of Worceter called Hugh Latimer (age 51), declared to him hys errours, and openly and manifestly by the scripture of God confuted them, and wyth many and godly exhortacions moved him to repentaunce, but such was his frowardnes that he neyther wold hear nor speak. And a litle before the execucion, a houge and great image was brought to the Galowes, which Image was brought out of Wales, and of the Welshmen much sought and worshipped: This Image was called Darvel Gatheren, and the Welshmen had a prophesy that this Image should set a whole Forest on fyre, which prophesy now toke effect, for he set this freer Forest on fyre and consumed him to nothing. Thys Freer when he saw the fire come, and that present death was at hand, caught hold upon the ladder, which he would not let go, but so unpacientlye toke hys death, that no man that ever put his truste in God never so unquietlye nor so ungodly ended his life: jf men myght judge him bv hys outward man, he appered to have litle knowledge of God and his sincere truth, and lesse trust in him at hys ending.

Upon the gallowes that he died on, was set with greate letters these verses folowing.

David Darvel Gatheren

As sayth the Welshmen

Fetched Outlawes out of Hell.

Now is he come, with spere and shild

In harnes to burne in Smithfeld

For in Wales he may not dwel

And Foreest the Freer

That obstinate Iyer

That wylfully shalbe dead.

In his contumacie

The Gospel doeth deny

The King to be supreme heade.

Wriothesley's Chronicle. 22 May 1538. Also the 22th daie of Maie, being Wednesdaie this same yeare, the said Friar Forrest was drawen from Newgate to the place of execution in Smythfielde, where was a noble sermon made by the Bishopp of Worcestre (age 51), afore writton, to have drawen the said Friar Forrest from his opinions; but he, obstinatlie standing still and stiffe in his opininons, and beinge asked by the said bishopp in what state he would die, he openlie declaring their with a lowde voyce to the Bishopp as followeth: That if an angell should come downe from heaven and shew him any other thing then that he had beleeved all his liffe tyme past he would not beleeve him, and that if his bodie should be cutt joynt after joynt or membre after membre, brent, hanged, or what paine soever might de donne to his bodie, he wold neaver turne from his old sect of this Bishopp of Rome; and also seaven yeare agone hea durst not have made such a sermon for his lief. And then after this, being a false traitor to his Praynce, an hereticke, and a seditious person to the Kinges leighe people, was had to the place of executionb and their hanged about the middle in chains of iron on a paire of gallowes alive, a great fire made under him and about him, and so was burned for his said heresie and treason.

Also their was brent with him an idollc that was brought out of Gidarne was North Wales, which idoll was of woode like a man of armes in his armes in his harneies having a litle speare in his hande and a caskett of iron about his necke hanging with a ribond, the which people of North Walles honored as a sainct. The name of the idoll was called in Walch Darvell Gadarn.d Present at this execution were the Duke of Norfolke (age 65), the Duke of Suffolke (age 54), the Erle of Sussex (age 31), the Earle of Hartford (age 38) being Vicount Beawchampe, the Bishoppe of London, with other of the Kinges Counsell, the Major (age 53)e of London, with the most part of the aldermen and shrives, and, as I thinke, tenne thousand persons and more; also the place of execution where the gallowes and fire was made was railed round about; and their was a skaffold made to sett the pulpitt on where the preacher stoode, and an other against itt where the friar stoode all the sermon tyme, and a long skaffold next to Sainct Bartholomewes spittell gate, where the Lordes of the Privie Counsell sate with the major and aldermen and other gentlemen and commons of the cittie.

Note a. Bishop Latimer (age 51).

Note b. Compare this with the account of the burning of Friar Forest in Harleian MS. 530, f. 120.

Note c. The Welshmen had a prophesy that this image should set a whole forest a fire, which prophesie now toke effect, for it set this Frier Forest on fyre, and consumed him to nothing. Hall, p 826.

Note d. Usually written Darvell or David Gatheren.

Note e. Sir Richard Gresham (age 53).

2nd Millennium, 16th Century Events, May 1536-1540 Jane Seymour Bigod's Rebellion and the Exeter Conspiracy, Exeter Conspiracy

Before Aug 1538 the Exeter Conspiracy was an attempt to overthrow Henry VIII (age 47) and replace him with Henry Courtenay 1st Marquess Exeter (age 42), grandson of Edward VI, Henry's first cousin. Thomas Audley 1st Baron Audley Walden (age 50) presided. John de Vere 15th Earl of Oxford (age 67) sat in judgement. Thomas Fiennes 9th Baron Dacre Gilsland (age 23) was juror.

The Exeter Conspiracy was an attack by Henry VIII (age 47) on Cardinal Reginald Pole (age 38). He, Cardinal Pole, was safe in Rome. Instead Henry destroyed mnost of the Pole family in England.

In Aug 1538 Geoffrey Pole (age 37) was arrested. He had been corresponding with Cardinal Reginald Pole (age 38). The investigation of Henry Courtenay 1st Marquess Exeter (age 42) had turned up his name; he had appealed to Thomas Cromwell, who had him arrested and interrogated. Under interrogation, Geoffrey (age 37) said that his eldest brother Henry Pole 1st Baron Montagu (age 46), and Henry Courtenay 1st Marquess Exeter (age 42) had been party to his correspondence with Cardinal Reginald Pole (age 38).

In Nov 1538 Margaret Pole Countess Salsbury (age 65), her son Henry Pole 1st Baron Montagu (age 46), his son Henry Pole (age 18), and other Pole family members, and Henry Courtenay 1st Marquess Exeter (age 42), his wife Gertrude Blount Marchioness of Exeter (age 35), their son Edward Courtenay 1st Earl Devon (age 11) and Edward Neville (age 67) were arrested and imprisoned on charges of treason. Cromwell had previously written that they had "little offended save that he [Reginald Pole] is of their kin". They were committed to the Tower of London [Map].

On 08 Dec 1538 Edward Neville (age 67) was beheaded at Tower Hill [Map].

In Jan 1539 Geoffrey Pole (age 38) was, somewhat surprisingly given the executions of the rest of his family, pardoned.

In Jan 1539 Cardinal Reginald Pole (age 38) was attainted in absentia.

On 09 Dec 1539 Henry Pole 1st Baron Montagu (age 47) and Henry Courtenay 1st Marquess Exeter (age 43) were beheaded at Tower Hill [Map]. Henry Courtenay 1st Marquess Exeter (age 43), his wife Gertrude Blount Marchioness of Exeter (age 36) and their son Edward Courtenay 1st Earl Devon (age 12) were attainted; Marquess Exeter, Earl Devon, Earl Devon, Baron Okehampton, Baron Courtenay forfeit.

His son was subsequently created 1st Earl Devon in 1553. Marquess Exeter, Earl Devon and Earl Devon subject to attainder.

In 1540 Gertrude Blount Marchioness of Exeter (age 37) was released.

On 27 May 1541, after some two and a half years of imprisonment, Margaret Pole Countess Salsbury (age 67) was executed at Tower Green, Tower of London [Map] for her role in the Exeter Conspiracy.

Baron Montagu and Baron Montagu forfeit.

Around Sep 1542, after three years of imprisonment, Henry Pole (age 22) died, possibly starved to death.

On 03 Aug 1553 Edward Courtenay 1st Earl Devon (age 26) was finally released from imprisonment after fifteen years by Queen Mary I of England and Ireland (age 37) who was a close friend of his mother Gertrude Blount Marchioness of Exeter (age 50).

2nd Millennium, 16th Century Events, May 1536-1540 Jane Seymour Bigod's Rebellion and the Exeter Conspiracy, Thomas Becket Shrine destroyed

In Sep 1538 Henry VIII (age 47) ordered Thomas of Becket's shrine at Canterbury Cathedral [Map] to be destroyed. Both an attack on the Catholic Church, and a means to generate revenue; Thomas' shrine was covered in precious metals and stones. Two huges chests, each requiring six men to carry, were required to remove the treasure.

On 16 Nov 1538 Henry VIII (age 47) attacked Thomas of Becket's reputation, removing his canonisation at the same time.

Henry enacted legislation as follows:

ITEM, for as moche as it appereth now clerely, that Thomas Becket, sometyme Archbyshop of Canterburie, stubburnly to withstand the holsome lawes establyshed agaynste the enormities of the clergie, by the kynges highness mooste noble progenitour, kynge HENRY the Seconde, for the common welthe, reste, and tranquillitie of this realme, of his frowarde mynde fledde the realme into Fraunce, and to the bishop of Rome, mayntenour of those enormities, to procure the abrogation of the sayd lawes, whereby arose moch trouble in this said realme, and that his dethe, which they untruely called martyrdome, happened upon a reskewe by him made, and that, as it is written, he gave opprobrious wordes to the gentyllmen, whiche than counsayled hym to leave his stubbernesse, and to avoyde the commocion of the people, rysen up for that rescue. And he not only callyd the one of them bawde, but also toke Tracy by the bosome, and violently shoke and plucked hym in suche maner, that he had almoste overthrowen hym to the pavement of the Churche; so that upon this fray one of their company, perceivynge the same, strake hym, and so in the thronge Becket was slayne. And further that his canonization was made onely by the bysshop of Rome, bycause he had ben a champion of maynteyne his usurped auctoritie, and a bearer of the iniquitie of the clergie, for these and for other great and urgent causes, longe to recyte, the Kynge's Maiestie, by the advyse of his counsayle, hath thought expedient to declare to his lovynge subjectes, that notwithstandynge the sayde canonization, there appereth nothynge in his lyfe and exteriour conversation, wherby he shuld be callyd a sainct, but rather estemed to have ben a rebell and traytour to his prynce. Therefore his Grace strayghtly chargeth and commandeth that from henseforth the sayde Thomas Becket shall not be estemed, named, reputed, nor called a sayncte, but bysshop Becket; and that his ymages and pictures, through the hole realme, shall be putte downe, and avoyded out of all churches, chapelles, and other places; and that from henseforthe, the dayes used to be festivall in his name shall not be observed, nor the service, office, antiphoners, colletes, and prayers, in his name redde, but rased and put out of all the bokes.

2nd Millennium, 16th Century Events, May 1536-1540 Jane Seymour Bigod's Rebellion and the Exeter Conspiracy, Henry VIII Excommunicated

On 17 Dec 1538 Henry VIII (age 47) was excommunicated by Pope Paul III (age 70).