The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy
The Gesta Normannorum Ducum [The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy] is a landmark medieval chronicle tracing the rise and fall of the Norman dynasty from its early roots through the pivotal events surrounding the Norman Conquest of England. Originally penned in Latin by the monk William of Jumièges shortly before 1060 and later expanded at the behest of William the Conqueror, the work chronicles the deeds, politics, battles, and leadership of the Norman dukes, especially William’s own claim to the English throne. The narrative combines earlier historical sources with firsthand information and oral testimony to present an authoritative account of Normandy’s transformation from a Viking settlement into one of medieval Europe’s most powerful realms. William’s history emphasizes the legitimacy, military prowess, and governance of the Norman line, framing their expansion, including the conquest of England, as both divinely sanctioned and noble in purpose. Later chroniclers such as Orderic Vitalis and Robert of Torigni continued the history, extending the coverage into the 12th century, providing broader context on ducal rule and its impact. Today this classic work remains a foundational source for understanding Norman identity, medieval statesmanship, and the historical forces that reshaped England and Western Europe between 800AD and 1100AD.
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Sometime before 1745 James Cecil 6th Earl of Salisbury [aged 31] began a relationship with Mary Grave of Baldock. He continued the relationship following his marriage.
Around 1750 James Cecil 6th Earl of Salisbury [aged 36] separated from his wife Elizabeth Keet Countess of Salisbury [aged 29] and lived with Mary Grave of Baldock for the remaining thirty years of his life at his house Quickswood, Clothall. Some unknown person gave him the eponym "The Wicked Earl" in consequence.
In 1760 Mary Grave of Baldock purchased The Manor House, Baldock and expanded the grounds by buying land through to Clothall Road.
On 19th September 1780 James Cecil 6th Earl of Salisbury [aged 66] died. His son James [aged 32] succeeded 7th Earl Salisbury. Mary Amelia Hill Marchioness Salisbury [aged 30] by marriage Countess Salisbury. Mary Grave of Baldock received over £50,000 in his Will, besides jewellery, silver and furniture. In addition, the Earl bequeathed £43,000 to his seven children by her.
On 2nd December 1789 Mary Grave of Baldock died. The Gentleman's Magazine: "GRAVE. At Baldock, after a lingering illness, Mrs Grave, the well known favourite of the late Lord Salisbury and mother of the late rector[s] of Hatfield and Clothall".
Around 1790 James Cecil 1st Marquess Salisbury [aged 41] commissioned the demolition of Quickswood, Clothall following th death of Mary Grave of Baldock.