This is a translation of the 'Memoires of Jacques du Clercq', published in 1823 in two volumes, edited by Frederic, Baron de Reissenberg. In his introduction Reissenberg writes: 'Jacques du Clercq tells us that he was born in 1424, and that he was a licentiate in law and a counsellor to Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy, in the castellany of Douai, Lille, and Orchies. It appears that he established his residence at Arras. In 1446, he married the daughter of Baldwin de la Lacherie, a gentleman who lived in Lille. We read in the fifth book of his Memoirs that his father, also named Jacques du Clercq, had married a lady of the Le Camelin family, from Compiègne. His ancestors, always attached to the counts of Flanders, had constantly served them, whether in their councils or in their armies.' The Memoires cover a period of nineteen years beginning in in 1448, ending in in 1467. It appears that the author had intended to extend the Memoirs beyond that date; no doubt illness or death prevented him from carrying out this plan. As Reissenberg writes the 'merit of this work lies in the simplicity of its narrative, in its tone of good faith, and in a certain air of frankness which naturally wins the reader’s confidence.' Du Clercq ranges from events of national and international importance, including events of the Wars of the Roses in England, to simple, everyday local events such as marriages, robberies, murders, trials and deaths, including that of his own father in Book 5; one of his last entries.
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Herefordshire is in Welsh March.
On 16th October 1714 James Brydges 8th Baron Chandos [aged 72] died at Aconbury, Herefordshire. His son James [aged 41] succeeded 9th Baron Chandos of Sudeley, 4th Baronet Brydges of Wilton in Herefordshire. Cassandra Willoughby Duchess Chandos [aged 44] by marriage Baroness Chandos of Sudeley.
On 23rd May 1359 Robert Poyntz was born at Archenfield, Herefordshire.
Around 1529 Anne Morgan Baroness Hunsdon was born to Thomas Morgan [aged 34] in Arkestone, Herefordshire. She married 21st May 1545 Henry Carey 1st Baron Hunsdon and had issue.
Around 1304 Catherine Grandison Countess of Salisbury was born to William Grandison 1st Baron Grandison [aged 42] and Sibylla Tregoz Baroness Grandison at Ashford, Herefordshire. She married 1320 William Montagu 1st Earl Salisbury, son of William Montagu 2nd Baron Montagu and Elizabeth Montfort Baroness Furnivall Baroness Montagu, and had issue.
Around 1420 William Stafford was born to Humphrey Stafford [aged 41] at Bishops Frome, Herefordshire. He married before 1439 Catherine Chideocke, daughter of John Chideock 6th Baron Fitzpayn and Catherine Lumley, and had issue.
In 1361 Walter Devereux was born to Walter Devereux [aged 22] at Bodenham, Herefordshire. He married his sixth cousin Agnes Crophull and had issue.
Brampton Bryan Castle is also in Castles in Herefordshire.
On 21st October 1624 Edward Harley was born to Robert Harley [aged 45] and Brilliana Conway [aged 26] in Brampton Bryan Castle [Map].
On 29th October 1643 Brilliana Conway [aged 45] died after having defended her home Brampton Bryan Castle [Map] from a three month siege by Royalist troops.
On 7th June 1664 Edward Harley was born to Edward Harley [aged 39] in Brampton Bryan Castle [Map]. He married Sarah Foley and had issue.
On 11th October 1790 Edward Harley 4th Earl of Oxford and Earl Mortomer [aged 64] died at Brampton Bryan Hall without issue. His nephew Edward [aged 17] succeeded 5th Earl of Oxford and Earl Mortimer.
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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In 1413 Elizabeth Vaughan was born to Roger Vaughan of Bredwardine [aged 36] and Gwladys ferch Dafydd Gam "Star of Abergavenny" Brecon in Bredwardine, Herefordshire [Map]. She married Morgan ap Jenkin Lord of Langstone.
Constructed from 1762 to 1764. Bredwardine Bridge, Herefordshire over the River Wye. Restored 1921. Brick with some stone dressings. Six arches.
The River Wye rises on Plynlimon [Map] after which it travels through, under, or near, Rhayader [Map], Newbridge-on-Wye [Map], Builth Wells [Map], Llanstephan Suspension Bridge [Map], Glasbury-on-Wye [Map], Hay-on-Wye [Map], Clifford Castle, Herefordshire [Map], Bredwardine, Byford, Herefordshire [Map], Wye Bridge Hereford [Map], Holme Lacy, Herefordshire [Map], Capler Camp, Herefordshire [Map], through Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire [Map], past Goodrich Castle, Gloucestershire [Map], Monmouth, Monmouthshire [Map], Tintern Abbey [Map] and Chepstow Castle [Map] joining the Severn Estuary 800m south-east of Thornwell, Monmouthshire [Map].
On 16th September 1294 Elizabeth Brampton was born to Brian Brampton at Brompton Brian, Herefordshire. She married Edmund Cornwall and had issue.
In 1174 Richard Talbot [aged 52] died at Bromyard, Herefordshire.
On 27th May 1442 Humphrey Stafford [aged 63] died at Bromyard, Herefordshire.
In 1122 Richard Talbot was born to Hugh Talbot [aged 47] at Linton Manor Bromyard, Herefordshire.
Around 1150 Gilbert Talbot was born to Richard Talbot [aged 28] at Linton Manor Bromyard, Herefordshire. He married Ann Gilbert Villiers and had issue.
In 1180 Richard Talbot was born to Gilbert Talbot [aged 30] and Ann Gilbert Villiers [aged 28] at Linton Manor Bromyard, Herefordshire. He married in or before 1220 Aline Aliva Basset and had issue.
On 11th April 1281 Aline Aliva Basset [aged 92] died at Linton Manor Bromyard, Herefordshire.
The River Wye rises on Plynlimon [Map] after which it travels through, under, or near, Rhayader [Map], Newbridge-on-Wye [Map], Builth Wells [Map], Llanstephan Suspension Bridge [Map], Glasbury-on-Wye [Map], Hay-on-Wye [Map], Clifford Castle, Herefordshire [Map], Bredwardine, Byford, Herefordshire [Map], Wye Bridge Hereford [Map], Holme Lacy, Herefordshire [Map], Capler Camp, Herefordshire [Map], through Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire [Map], past Goodrich Castle, Gloucestershire [Map], Monmouth, Monmouthshire [Map], Tintern Abbey [Map] and Chepstow Castle [Map] joining the Severn Estuary 800m south-east of Thornwell, Monmouthshire [Map].
St John the Baptist Church, Byford is also in Churches in Herefordshire.
St John the Baptist Church, Byford [Map]. Lots of monuments to the Cotterell Baronents, a marble wall monument by J Smth of London, Lettice Lygon eldest daughter of William Lygon 7th Earl Beauchamp.
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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The River Wye rises on Plynlimon [Map] after which it travels through, under, or near, Rhayader [Map], Newbridge-on-Wye [Map], Builth Wells [Map], Llanstephan Suspension Bridge [Map], Glasbury-on-Wye [Map], Hay-on-Wye [Map], Clifford Castle, Herefordshire [Map], Bredwardine, Byford, Herefordshire [Map], Wye Bridge Hereford [Map], Holme Lacy, Herefordshire [Map], Capler Camp, Herefordshire [Map], through Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire [Map], past Goodrich Castle, Gloucestershire [Map], Monmouth, Monmouthshire [Map], Tintern Abbey [Map] and Chepstow Castle [Map] joining the Severn Estuary 800m south-east of Thornwell, Monmouthshire [Map].
St Michael and All Angels Church, Castle Frome is also in Churches in Herefordshire.
St Michael and All Angels Church, Castle Frome [Map]. Fine Herefordshire School of Carving font..
In 1420 Thomas Barre [aged 71] died at Clehonger, Herefordshire.
All Saints' Church, Clehonger is also in Churches in Herefordshire.
All Saints' Church, Clehonger [Map]. Effigy of Richard Pembridge of Clehonger, Clehonger, Herefordshire.
Monumental Effigies. A Knight of the Pembridge Family in Clehongre Church, Herefordshire [Map]. [Note. Possibly Richard Pembridge of Clehonger?]
Richard Pembridge of Clehonger: he and Petronilla Unknown were married. All Saints' Church, Clehonger [Map]. Effigy of Richard Pembridge of Clehonger, Clehonger, Herefordshire. Around 1300 he was born in Pembridge, Herefordshire. In 1346 he died.
St James the Great Church, Colwall is also in Churches in Herefordshire.
St James the Great Church, Colwall [Map]. Herefordshire School of Carving. The Norman church was started in the 12th century as evidenced by the main south doorway with its scalloped capitals and a round headed arch on the west front of the nave. The south aisle was added in the middle of the 13th century. The south west tower is unusually situated and houses ten bells with six dating from 1778. In 1865 the chancel was replaced and widened and in 1880 the north aisle was added. In 2010 the chancel was reordered.
On 6th January 1673 James Brydges 1st Duke Chandos was born to James Brydges 8th Baron Chandos [aged 30] and Elizabeth Barnard Baroness Chandos [aged 30] at Dewsall, Herefordshire. He married (1) 2nd February 1695 Mary Lake and had issue (2) 4th August 1713 his half first cousin Cassandra Willoughby Duchess Chandos (3) 18th April 1736 Lydia Catherine Van Hatten Duchess Chandos.
Dore Abbey, Herefordshire is also in Abbeys in England.
On 3rd April 1286 Roger Clifford [aged 71] died of wounds sustained in battle. He was buried at Dore Abbey, Herefordshire [Map].
Eardisley Castle is also in Castles in Herefordshire.
Around 1080. Eardisley Castle [Map] is an 11th-century motte and bailey castle with a moat around the bailey. It is recorded in the Domesday Book as being held by Robert (probably Robert de Basqueville, father of Ralph de Baskerville) from Roger de Lacy.
In 1263 John Giffard 1st Baron Giffard Brimpsfield [aged 31] was imprisoned Bishop Peter Acquablanca at Eardisley Castle [Map].
On 6th October 1833 Susanna Matilda Tayler [aged 42] died at Lower Moor, Eardisley.
The True Chronicles of Jean le Bel Volume 1 Chapters 1-60 1307-1342
The True Chronicles of Jean le Bel offer one of the most vivid and immediate accounts of 14th-century Europe, written by a knight who lived through the events he describes, and experienced some of them first hand. Covering the early decades of the Hundred Years’ War, this remarkable chronicle follows the campaigns of Edward III of England, the politics of France and the Low Countries, and the shifting alliances that shaped medieval warfare. Unlike later historians, Jean le Bel writes with a strong sense of eyewitness authenticity, drawing on personal experience and the testimony of fellow soldiers. His narrative captures not only battles and sieges, but also the realities of military life, diplomacy, and the ideals of chivalry that governed noble society. A key source for Jean Froissart, Le Bel’s chronicle stands on its own as a compelling and insightful work, at once historical record and literary achievement. This translation builds on the 1905 edition published in French by Jules Viard, adding extensive translations from other sources Rymer's Fœdera, the Chronicles of Adam Murimuth, William Nangis, Walter of Guisborough, a Bourgeois of Valenciennes, Geoffrey le Baker of Swinbroke and Richard Lescot to enrich the original text and Viard's notes.
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On 14th July 1944 Arthur Cocks 6th Baron Somers [aged 57] died at Eastnor Castle, Herefordshire. His uncle Arthur [aged 79] succeeded 7th Baron Somers.
St John the Baptist Church, Eastnor is also in Churches in Herefordshire.
St John the Baptist Church, Eastnor [Map]. Monument to Charles Somers-Cocks 3rd Earl Somers by Joseph Boehm. Two angels support his pillow. The monument is located in the mortuary chapel to the north of the church.
On 26th September 1883 Charles Somers-Cocks 3rd Earl Somers [aged 64] died. Earl Somers, Viscount Eastnor of Eastor Castle in Herefordshire extinct. He was buried at St John the Baptist Church, Eastnor [Map]. His first cousin once removed Philip [aged 68] succeeded 5th Baron Somers.
In 1250 Richard Talbot was born to Gilbert Talbot [aged 30] and Gwenllian Dinefwr [aged 31] at Ecclesall, Herefordshire. He married before 18th October 1276 his fourth cousin Sarah Beauchamp Baroness Talbot and had issue.
In 1274 Catherine Talbot was born to Richard Talbot [aged 24] and Sarah Beauchamp Baroness Talbot [aged 19] at Ecclesall, Herefordshire.
Around 1277 Joan Talbot was born to Richard Talbot [aged 27] and Sarah Beauchamp Baroness Talbot [aged 22] at Ecclesall, Herefordshire.
In 1278 Richard Talbot 5th Baron Talbot was born to Richard Talbot [aged 28] and Sarah Beauchamp Baroness Talbot [aged 23] at Ecclesall, Herefordshire. He married before 29th September 1317 Joan Mortimer Baroness Talbot, daughter of Hugh Mortimer 3rd Baron Mortimer and Matilda Baroness Mortimer, and had issue.
In 1287 Thomas Talbot was born to Richard Talbot [aged 37] and Sarah Beauchamp Baroness Talbot [aged 32] at Ecclesall, Herefordshire.
On 3rd September 1306 Richard Talbot [aged 56] died at Ecclesall, Herefordshire.
In 1178 Sybil Ewyas was born to Robert Ewyas at Ewyas Harold, Herefordshire. She married 1230 Roger Clifford, son of Walter Clifford 2nd Baron Clifford and Agnes Cundy Baroness Clifford, and had issue.
In 1232 Roger Clifford [aged 43] died at Ewyas Harold, Herefordshire.
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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In 1236 Sybil Ewyas [aged 58] died at Ewyas Harold, Herefordshire.
Around 6th August 1285 Juliana Cantilupe [aged 61] died at Ewyas Harold, Herefordshire.
On 24th May 1297 Mabel Fitzwarin [aged 50] died at Ewyas Harold, Herefordshire.
On 1st November 1206 Gilbert Lacy was born to Walter Lacy Lord Meath [aged 40] and Margaret de Braose at Ewyas Lacy, Herefordshire [Map]. He married before 1230 his third cousin once removed Isabel Bigod, daughter of Hugh Bigod 3rd Earl Norfolk and Maud Marshal Countess Norfolk and Surrey, and had issue.
Around 1228 Margaret "Lady of Dulek" Lacy was born to Gilbert Lacy [aged 21] and Isabel Bigod [aged 16] at Ewyas Lacy, Herefordshire [Map]. She married her fourth cousin John "The Botiller" Verdun and had issue.
Around 1379 Margaret Burghesh was born to John Burghesh [aged 35] and Ismania Hanham at Ewyas Lacy, Herefordshire [Map]. She married 1417 John Arundell and had issue.
Close Rolls Edward IV Edward V Richard III 1476-1485. 16th May 1483. King Richard III of England [aged 30]. Westminster Palace [Map]. Grant for life to the king's servant Henry Duke of Buckingham [aged 28], of the offices of chief justice and chamberlain in South and North Wales, constable of the castles and counties of Kermerdyn and Cardigan, the castles of Abrustwith, co Cardigan, and Denevour in South Wales, the castle and town of Tonebigh, co. Pembroke, the castle and lordship of Kylgarvan in South Wales, the castle and town of Llan Stepham in South Wales, the lordship of Wallewynscastell in South Wales, the lordship of Westhaverford in South Wales, constable, steward, and receiver of the castle, lordshiop and manor of Uske, the castle and lordship of Carlion, the castle, lordship and manor of Dynas, the castle and a moiety of the lordship of Ewyas Lacy [Map], the castles, lordships and manors of Belth,Clifford, Radnore, Melenyth, Montgomery, Dynbigh, Elvell and Narberth, the castle, lordship and manors of Wygmore [Map] and Holt [Map] in the marches of Wales, and the lordship and manor of Bromfield [Map] in the same marches, steward and receiver of the lordships and manors of Norton, Knyghton, Raydor, Guerthrenyon, Comotoyder, Glasbury, Weryfreton, Cherbury, Terthic, Halcetur, Kadewyn, Newton, Kyry in the marches.
St Mary's Church, Fownhope is also in Churches in Herefordshire.
St Mary's Church, Fownhope [Map]. Fine tympanum of the Herefordshire School of Carving.
On 12th September 1705 John Hoskyns 2nd Baronet [aged 71] died. He was buried in St Denis' Church, Harewood. His son Bennet [aged 30] succeeded 3rd Baronet Hoskyns of Harewood in Herefordshire
In 1724 Jane Lowe Lady Hoskyns died. She was buried in St Denis' Church, Harewood.
Alan de Plunkett of Kilpec was born to Alan de Plugenet of Kilpec. His sister Joan Plugenet of Kilpec was his heir and inherited Kilpeck, Herefordshire.
On 12th April 1879 Anne Coke [aged 82] died at King's Caple, Herefordshire. She was buried at the Church of St Mary Magdalene, Eardisley [Map].
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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Chronicon ex Chronicis by Florence and John of Worcester. 15th August 1127. Richard, bishop of Hereford, died at his vill, called Dydelebyrig [Map]1, on Monday the eighteenth of the calends of September [15th August]; his body was carried to Hereford [Map], and buried in the church there, with the bishops his predecessors.
Note 1. Ledbury [Map], Herefordshire.
In or before 1291 Piers Grandison 2nd Baron Grandison was born to William Grandison 1st Baron Grandison [aged 28] and Sibylla Tregoz Baroness Grandison at Ashperton, Ledbury. He married 10th June 1330 Blanche Mortimer Baroness Grandison, daughter of Roger Mortimer 1st Earl March and Joan Geneville Baroness Mortimer 2nd Baroness Geneville, and had issue.
In 1292 Bishop John Grandison 3rd Baron Grandison was born to William Grandison 1st Baron Grandison [aged 30] and Sibylla Tregoz Baroness Grandison at Ashperton, Ledbury.
Around 1294 Mabilia Grandison was born to William Grandison 1st Baron Grandison [aged 32] and Sibylla Tregoz Baroness Grandison at Ashperton, Ledbury.
Around 1340 Isabel Grandison was born to Piers Grandison 2nd Baron Grandison [aged 49] and Blanche Mortimer Baroness Grandison [aged 28] at Ashperton, Ledbury. She married Baldwin Brugge.
In 1347 John Grandison was born to Piers Grandison 2nd Baron Grandison [aged 56] and Blanche Mortimer Baroness Grandison [aged 35] at Ashperton, Ledbury.
In 1350 Mabilia Grandison [aged 56] died at Ashperton, Ledbury.
On 10th August 1358 Piers Grandison 2nd Baron Grandison [aged 67] died at Ashperton, Ledbury. His brother John [aged 66] succeeded 3rd Baron Grandison.
St Michael and All Angels Church, Ledbury is also in Churches in Herefordshire.
St Michael and All Angels Church, Ledbury [Map]. Monument to William Miles (d.1803) by John Flaxman. A small unnamed boy apparently asleep lies under the watchful care of two angels at Ledbury. Sculptors Thomas and Mary Thorneycroft.
Anglo-Saxon Chronicle. 1052. At this time Griffin, the Welsh king, plundered in Herefordshire till he came very nigh to Leominster, Herefordshire; and they gathered against him both the landsmen and the Frenchmen from the castle; and there were slain very many good men of the English, and also of the French. This was on the same day thirteen years after that Edwin was slain with his companions.
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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In 1419 John Croft [aged 55] died in Leominster, Herefordshire.
In 1505 Philip Hoby was born to William Hoby of Leominster in Herefordshire and Catherine Forster, probably at Leominster, Herefordshire. He married before 1540 Elizabeth Stonor.
Around 1588 Henry Townshend [aged 51] was appointed Recorder of Leominster, Herefordshire.
In 1778 Thomas Harley [aged 47] commissioned the building of Berrington Hall.
In 1781 George Rodney 2nd Baron Rodney [aged 27] and Anne Harley Baroness Rodney [aged 21] were married. Her father Thomas Harley [aged 50] gave them Berrington Hall as a wedding gift.
Leominster Priory, Herefordshire is also in Priories in England.
Leominster Priory, Herefordshire [Map]In the churchyard are graves and memorials of members of the theatrical Kemble family including the grandparents of actress Sarah Siddons. The churchyard also contains one war grave of a soldier of the Royal Army Service Corps of World War II. The church is especially notable for the superb 12th-century carving of the west doorway, which has exceptional carved capitals inside and out. This carving was executed by the 'Herefordshire' school of craftsmen, who were also responsible for the superb churches at Kilpeck and Shobdon, among others in the area. One of the interior capitals depicts a Green Man, the wild man of the woods figure linked to pagan fertility symbols.
Around 660 Merewalh Magonsaete founded at Leominster Priory, Herefordshire [Map].
The Itinerary of Archbishop Baldwin through Wales: Book 2 Chapter 13. From Wenloch, we passed by the little cell of Brumfeld,180 the noble castle of Ludlow [Map], through Leominster [Map] to Hereford [Map] leaving on our right hand the districts of Melenyth and Elvel; thus (describing as it were a circle) we came to the same point from which we had commenced this laborious journey through Wales.
Note 180. It appears that a small college of prebendaries, or secular canons, resided at Bromfield in the reign of king Henry I.; Osbert, the prior, being recorded as a witness to a deed made before the year 1148. In 1155, they became Benedictines, and surrendered church and lands to the abbey of St. Peter's at Gloucester, whereupon a prior and monks were placed there, and continued till the dissolution. An ancient gateway and some remains of the priory still testify the existence of this religious house, the local situation of which, near the confluence of the rivers Oney and Teme, has been accurately described by Leland.
Welsh Border Road describes an unamed Roman Road, and unnumbered by Margery, that went from Caerleon [Map] to Wroxeter, Shropshire [Map], passing through Usk, Monmouthshire [Map], Abergavenny, Monmouthshire [Map], Hereford [Map], Mortimer's Cross, Herefordshire [Map], Wigmore, Herefordshire [Map] and Leintwardine Bridge, Herefordshire [Map] where it crosses the River Teme just after its convergence with the River Clun.
On 2nd February 1461 at the Battle of Mortimer's Cross at Mortimer's Cross, Herefordshire [Map] the future King Edward IV of England [aged 18] commanded the Yorkist forces including William Hastings 1st Baron Hastings [aged 30], John Wenlock 1st Baron Wenlock [aged 61], John Tuchet 6th Baron Audley, 3rd Baron Tuchet [aged 35], John Savage [aged 17] and Roger Vaughan [aged 51].
In the Lancastrian army Owen Tudor [aged 61] (captured by Roger Vaughan) and his son Jasper Tudor 1st Duke Bedford [aged 29] fought as well as James Butler 1st Earl Wiltshire 5th Earl Ormonde [aged 40] and Henry Roos. Gruffydd ap Nicholas Deheubarth [aged 68] were killed. Watkin Vaughan [aged 66] and Henry Wogan [aged 59] were killed.
Monument to the Battle of Mortimer's Cross at Mortimer's Cross, Herefordshire [Map]. Note Edward IV described as Edward Mortimer. The monument was erected by subscription in 1799.
Gruffydd ap Nicholas Deheubarth: In 1393 he was born to Nicolas ap Philip Deheubarth and Jonet Unknown at Sheffield [Map].
Watkin Vaughan: Around 1395 he was born to Roger Vaughan of Bredwardine and Gwladys ferch Dafydd Gam "Star of Abergavenny" Brecon. Around 1435 Watkin Vaughan and Elinor Wogan were married. The date based on his age being around twenty. The difference in their ages was 29 years.
Henry Wogan: In 1402 he was born to John Wogan at Wiston.
On 26th December 1635 Walter Pye of The Mynde in Herefordshire [aged 64] died. He was buried at St David's Church, Much Dewchurch where there is elaborate alabaster monument to his memory..
In or before 1654 Edward Cornewall of Moccas Court in Herefordshire and Frances Pye [aged 32] were married at St David's Church, Much Dewchurch.
Around 1695 George Carpenter 2nd Baron Carpenter was born to George Carpenter 1st Baron Carpenter [aged 37] and Alice Caulfeild Baroness Carpenter [aged 34] at Ocle Pychard, Herefordshire. He married 26th August 1722 Elizabeth Petty Baroness Carpenter and had issue.
St George's Church, Orleton is also in Churches in Herefordshire.
Henrici Quinti, Angliæ Regis, Gesta, is a first-hand account of the Agincourt Campaign, and subsequent events to his death in 1422. The author of the first part was a Chaplain in King Henry's retinue who was present from King Henry's departure at Southampton in 1415, at the siege of Harfleur, the battle of Agincourt, and the celebrations on King Henry's return to London. The second part, by another writer, relates the events that took place including the negotiations at Troye, Henry's marriage and his death in 1422.
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St George's Church, Orleton [Map]. Font from the Herefordshire School of Carving.
Around 1300 Richard Pembridge of Clehonger was born in Pembridge, Herefordshire.
Patent Rolls. 28th April 1485. Presentation of Cardinal Christopher Bainbridge [aged 21] to the parish church of Pembrige, in the diocese of Hereford, void by the resignation of [his uncle] Thomas, Bishop of Salisbury.
On 12th September 1637 Giles Brydges 1st Baronet [aged 64] died at Peterstowe, Herefordshire. His son John [aged 13] succeeded 2nd Baronet Brydges of Wilton in Herefordshire. Mary Powell Lady Wilton by marriage Lady Brydges of Wilton in Herefordshire.
The River Wye rises on Plynlimon [Map] after which it travels through, under, or near, Rhayader [Map], Newbridge-on-Wye [Map], Builth Wells [Map], Llanstephan Suspension Bridge [Map], Glasbury-on-Wye [Map], Hay-on-Wye [Map], Clifford Castle, Herefordshire [Map], Bredwardine, Byford, Herefordshire [Map], Wye Bridge Hereford [Map], Holme Lacy, Herefordshire [Map], Capler Camp, Herefordshire [Map], through Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire [Map], past Goodrich Castle, Gloucestershire [Map], Monmouth, Monmouthshire [Map], Tintern Abbey [Map] and Chepstow Castle [Map] joining the Severn Estuary 800m south-east of Thornwell, Monmouthshire [Map].
Around 1349 Thomas Barre was born to Thomas Barre [aged 14] and Hawise Pembridge [aged 11] at Rotherwas, Herefordshire. He married Elizabeth Croyser and had issue.
Domesday Book Herefordshire Hezetre. Shobdon. Land of Ralph of Mortimer Households: 20 villagers. 20 smallholders. 6 slaves. 2 other. Land and resources Ploughland: 3 lord's plough teams. 9 men's plough teams. Other resources: Woodland 1 * 1 leagues. Valuation Annual value to lord: 7 pounds in 1086; 6 pounds in 1066. Owners Tenant-in-chief in 1086: Ralph of Mortimer. Lord in 1086: Ralph of Mortimer. Lord in 1066: (Queen) Edith. Phillimore reference: Herefordshire 9,10
Before 1148 Abbot Simon Merlymond was the first Abbot of Wigmore Abbey [Map]. The community moved around Herefordshire, initially at Shobdon, Herefordshire, a number of times following its creation before settling at Wigmore Abbey [Map].
Park Wood Long Barrow is also in Cotswolds Neolithic Tombs.
Archaeological Journal Volume 11 Proceedings. Mr. Birch communicated further notices which he had received from Mr. Jenkins, of Hereford, relating to ancient remains in the neighbourhood of St. Margaret's Park and the cruciform earth-work already noticed in this Journal. (See vol. x. p. 358.) With permission of the proprietor excavations had been made in that singular embankment, at three different places, but without making any discovery: it has also been cleared of the brush-wood which encumbered it, and may now be fully examined. Not far distant may be noticed several basins or cavities of considerable size, supposed to have been possibly the sites of ancient habitations, and in one of these hollows some ancient pottery had been found, which, it is hoped, may be obtained for examination, as this might supply a clue to the probable date of these works. It was stated that a cross of metal had been found in the Park and sent to London. About 250 yards N.E. of the cruciform embankment in St. Margaret's Park there is a flat horizontal slab of limestone [Park Wood Long Barrow [Map]], like the upper stone of a cromlech. It is of an irregularly oval form, measuring about 27 feet 6 inches by 9 feet 6 inches; average thickness, 2 feet 6 inches in the direction of the longer diameter, being north and south. This stone lies on the declivity of the wooded hill, its face on the western side being level with the adjacent surface of the ground, and on this side there is a trench, 2 feet wide, and 2½ feet deep, which appears to have been at one time much deeper, and to have been filled up by soil brought down by the rain into it. On the east side, and partly on the north, the ground slopes from it, and a cavity appears under the slab. Half a century ago, as stated by an old man in the neighbourhood, it stood wholly free from the ground, resting on certain upright stones. There is still at the west end of the slab, but now at a slight distance from it, an upright stone, flat at top, which may have originally been one of those on which it was supported. It seems probable that these may be the remains of a fallen cromlech. About half a mile south of the cross-shaped mound and cavities above mentioned several objects of bronze have been found in ploughing, of a type hitherto, as it is believed, un noticed. They may have been fixed on the ends of spear-shafts, to serve the purpose of a ferrule. ( See woodcut, half length of original, ) The length of this object is 5 inches, the socket within tapers to a point 11 inch from the extremity.
Near St. Margaret's Church, about 500 yards west, and three quarters of a mile from the cross earthwork, the head-stone here represented (see woodcut) is to be seen in the fence of a tillage-field, under an aged yew tree, which leans, through the force of prevalent winds, in the same direc tion as the grave-slab at its foot. The dimensions are 4 feet by 17 inches. Tradition affirms that a lady was there buried, who came from London infected with the plague and died here. Another tale is, that seven persons were there interred at some remote period.
Long Barrows of the Cotswolds. Park Wood Long Barrow [Map]
Herefordshire, 38 S.W. Parish of St. Margaret's. 61.
In describing a cruciform earthwork (probably a mediaeval enclosure bank) in St. Margaret's Park Wood, the late Mr. George Clinch says: "About 250 yards N.E. of this earthwork, there is (or was in 1854 when the account was written), a flat, horizontal slab of limestone like the upper stone of a cromlech." Its form was oval, measuring 27 feet 6 inches by 9 feet 6 inches, with an average thickness of 2 feet 6 inches. "This stone" the writer of the account in A. J. referred to by Mr. Clinch (the Rev. Dr. Jenkins of Hereford) continues, "lies on the declivity of the wooded hill, its face on the western side being level with the adjacent surface of the ground and on this side there is a trench, 2 feet wide and 2½ feet deep, which appears to have been at one time much deeper, and to have been filled up by soil brought down by the rain into it. On the east side, and partly on the north, the ground slopes from it, and a cavity appears under the slab. Half a century ago, as stated by an old man in the neighbourhood, it stood wholly free from the ground on certain upright stones. There is still at the west end of the slab, but now at a slight distance from it, an upright stone, flat at top, which may have originally been one of those on which it was supported. It seems probable that these may be the remains of a fallen cromlech." This conclusion seems highly probable from the account quoted. A careful search failed, however, to discover it, although the cruciform earthwork was located; nor did local enquiries prove more successful. The site is now a thick wood (called St. Margaret s Park Wood on the old Ordnance Survey 2 in. to the mile MS map of 1814) and the "park" applied to it, though doubtless historically correct, is misleading, since there has not been for a very long time at any rate, anything like a modern park here. Visited August 17th, 1921.
Arch. Journal, XI., 1854, pp. 55-6, (the Rev. Dr. Jenkins).
Victoria County History (Herefordshire) Vol. I., 1908, p. 160 (Mr. George Clinch).
Compare Gentleman's Magazine, 1853, Part II., pp. 387-9 (Gent's Mag. Library, ed by G. L. Gomme, Archaseology, Part I., pp. 269-273; account of cruciform mound etc., by Thomas Jenkins, but no mention of the "cromlech.")
Stapleton Castle, Herefordshire is also in Castles in Herefordshire.
On 8th September 1335 Geoffrey Cornwall 3rd Baron Burford was born to Richard Cornwall 2nd Baron Burford [aged 22] and Sibella Bodrugan Baroness Burford at Stapleton Castle, Herefordshire [Map]. He a great x 3 grandson of King John of England.
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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In 1193 Sibyl Cormeilles was born to Walter Cormeilles at Tarrington, Herefordshire. She married before 18th March 1217 Hugh Giffard and had issue.
Before 13th February 1885 Reverend George Francis Coke [aged 55] was appointed Vicar of St Peter's Church, Titley.
Epiphanius Evesham was born at Wellington, Herefordshire.
Chronicon ex Chronicis by Florence and John of Worcester. 1138. Meanwhile, the city of Hereford, below the bridge over the river Wye, was burnt before his eyes. Not long afterwards, the lamentable conflagration of the city of Oxford reached the ears of the king and his court. The garrison of Hereford, perceiving of a surety by the numbers and strength of the royal army, that the king would triumph over them, made terms and surrendered to him. And since Stephen was, nay is1, a loving and peaceable king, he injured no one, but suffered his enemies to depart free. The king also took the fortified place called Wibbeleage2, which Geoffrey de Talbot held against him, but afterwards evacuated. It was by his devices and ability that the king's adversaries were supported in breaking the peace. The aforesaid castles and that of Hereford were garrisoned by the king's troops.
Note 1. Florence, it will be observed, speaks of what was actually passing, and seems, from his connection with Worcester, to have espoused the cause of king Stephen.
Note 2. Weobley, in Herefordshire.
Around 1430 Anne Devereux was born to Walter Devereux [aged 43] and Elizabeth Merbury at Weobley, Herefordshire. She married before 5th March 1451 William Herbert 1st Earl Pembroke and had issue.
Around 1432 Walter Devereux Baron Ferrers of Chartley was born to Walter Devereux [aged 45] and Elizabeth Merbury at Weobley, Herefordshire. He married 1446 his fourth cousin twice removed Anne Ferrers 8th Baroness Ferrers Chartley, daughter of William Ferrers 7th Baron Ferrers of Chartley, and had issue.
Around 1325 John Burley was born to John Burley at Birley, Weobley. He married Amice Pembridge and had issue.
Weobley Castle, Hereforshire is also in Castles in Herefordshire.
Weobley Castle, Hereforshire [Map] was a ringwork and bailey castle belonging to the De Lacy family who also owned the castles of Ludlow and Ewyas Harold.
In 1138 Gilbert de Lacy was besieged by King Stephen I England [aged 44] at Weobley Castle, Hereforshire [Map].
On 26th June 1585 Bishop John Scory [aged 75] died in Whitbourne, Herefordshire.
On 28th October 1323 John Grey 2nd Baron Grey of Wilton [aged 55] died at Wilton, Herefordshire. His son Henry [aged 41] succeeded 3rd Baron Grey of Wilton.
This is a translation of the 'Memoires of Jacques du Clercq', published in 1823 in two volumes, edited by Frederic, Baron de Reissenberg. In his introduction Reissenberg writes: 'Jacques du Clercq tells us that he was born in 1424, and that he was a licentiate in law and a counsellor to Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy, in the castellany of Douai, Lille, and Orchies. It appears that he established his residence at Arras. In 1446, he married the daughter of Baldwin de la Lacherie, a gentleman who lived in Lille. We read in the fifth book of his Memoirs that his father, also named Jacques du Clercq, had married a lady of the Le Camelin family, from Compiègne. His ancestors, always attached to the counts of Flanders, had constantly served them, whether in their councils or in their armies.' The Memoires cover a period of nineteen years beginning in in 1448, ending in in 1467. It appears that the author had intended to extend the Memoirs beyond that date; no doubt illness or death prevented him from carrying out this plan. As Reissenberg writes the 'merit of this work lies in the simplicity of its narrative, in its tone of good faith, and in a certain air of frankness which naturally wins the reader’s confidence.' Du Clercq ranges from events of national and international importance, including events of the Wars of the Roses in England, to simple, everyday local events such as marriages, robberies, murders, trials and deaths, including that of his own father in Book 5; one of his last entries.
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Around 1331 Henry Grey was born to John Grey 3rd Baron Grey of Codnor [aged 26] and Alice Lisle Baroness Grey Codnor [aged 22] at Wilton, Herefordshire. He married 13th April 1358 his sixth cousin Joan Cobham, daughter of Reginald Cobham 1st Baron Cobham and Joan Berkeley Baroness Cobham Sternborough, and had issue.
Around 1469 Edmund Grey 9th Baron Grey of Wilton was born to John Grey 8th Baron Grey of Wilton [aged 21] and Anne Grey Baroness Grey Wilton [aged 19] at Wilton, Herefordshire. He a great x 4 grandson of King Edward III of England. He married 1491 Florence Hastings Baroness Grey Wilton and had issue.
In 1492 Elizabeth Grey Baroness Chandos was born to Edmund Grey 9th Baron Grey of Wilton [aged 23] and Florence Hastings Baroness Grey Wilton [aged 19] at Wilton, Herefordshire. She married 1512 John Brydges 1st Baron Chandos, son of Giles Brugge 6th Baron Chandos and Isabel Baynham Baroness Chandos, and had issue.
On 5th May 1511 Edmund Grey 9th Baron Grey of Wilton [aged 42] died at Wilton, Herefordshire. His son George succeeded 10th Baron Grey of Wilton.
Around 2nd September 1642 James Brydges 8th Baron Chandos was born to John Brydges 2nd Baronet [aged 18] at Wilton, Herefordshire. He married 4th May 1664 Elizabeth Barnard Baroness Chandos and had issue.
Wilton Castle, Herefordshire is also in Castles in Herefordshire.
In 1302 Maud Fitzhugh Baroness Grey Wilton [aged 80] died at Wilton Castle, Herefordshire [Map].
Around 1526 Charles Brydges was born to John Brydges 1st Baron Chandos [aged 33] and Elizabeth Grey Baroness Chandos [aged 34] at Wilton Castle, Herefordshire [Map]. He married 1559 his niece Jane Carne and had issue.
In 1573 Giles Brydges 1st Baronet was born to Charles Brydges [aged 47] and Jane Carne at Wilton Castle, Herefordshire [Map]. Coefficient of inbreeding 12.52%. He married 16th January 1620 Mary Scudamore Lady Bridges and had issue.
Wormesley Priory is also in Priories in England.
On 8th September 1274 Gilbert Talbot [aged 54] died at Wormesley Priory [Map]. He was buried at Wormesley Priory [Map].
On 23rd December 1519 Eleanor Cornwall [aged 91] died at Yarpole, Herefordshire.
On 26th April 1881 Delves Louis Broughton 10th Baronet [aged 23] and Rosamond Broughton [aged 19] were married at Yazor, Herefordshire.