The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy
The Gesta Normannorum Ducum [The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy] is a landmark medieval chronicle tracing the rise and fall of the Norman dynasty from its early roots through the pivotal events surrounding the Norman Conquest of England. Originally penned in Latin by the monk William of Jumièges shortly before 1060 and later expanded at the behest of William the Conqueror, the work chronicles the deeds, politics, battles, and leadership of the Norman dukes, especially William’s own claim to the English throne. The narrative combines earlier historical sources with firsthand information and oral testimony to present an authoritative account of Normandy’s transformation from a Viking settlement into one of medieval Europe’s most powerful realms. William’s history emphasizes the legitimacy, military prowess, and governance of the Norman line, framing their expansion, including the conquest of England, as both divinely sanctioned and noble in purpose. Later chroniclers such as Orderic Vitalis and Robert of Torigni continued the history, extending the coverage into the 12th century, providing broader context on ducal rule and its impact. Today this classic work remains a foundational source for understanding Norman identity, medieval statesmanship, and the historical forces that reshaped England and Western Europe between 800AD and 1100AD.
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On 29th December 1676 William Wrightson of Cusworth was born to [his father] Robert Wrightson of Cusworth and [his mother] Sarah Beaumont.
In 1710 William Wrightson of Cusworth (age 33) was elected MP Newcastle upon Tyne. He was returned 1713, 1715. He was defeated in 1722.
In 1722 William Wrightson of Cusworth (age 45) and Isabella Fenwick were married.
On 20th February 1723 William Wrightson of Cusworth (age 46) was elected MP Northumberland where his wife's family owned considerable estates. He was unseated on petition on 15th April 1724. He didn't stand again.
In 1724 William Wrightson of Cusworth (age 47) inherited the Cusworth estates from his brother and commissioned George Platt to build Cusworth Hall, South Yorkshire between 1740 and 1845.
Before 20th May 1752 [his son-in-law] John Battie aka Wrightson and [his daughter] Isabella Wrightson were married.
On 4th December 1760 William Wrightson of Cusworth (age 83) died. [his daughter] Isabella Wrightson inherited Cusworth Hall, South Yorkshire. Her husband [his son-in-law] John Battie aka Wrightson changed his name from Battie to Wrightson.
After 4th December 1760. St Mary's Church, Sprotbrough [Map]. Memorial to William Wrightson of Cusworth (deceased).
[his daughter] Isabella Wrightson was born to William Wrightson of Cusworth and Isabella Fenwick. She married before 20th May 1752 John Battie aka Wrightson and had issue.
Father: Robert Wrightson of Cusworth
GrandFather: Thomas Beaumont of Whitley 
Mother: Sarah Beaumont