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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St John the Baptist's Church, Staveley is in Staveley, Derbyshire [Map], Churches in Derbyshire.
On 22nd May 1653 unamed child was born to Charles Paulet 1st Duke Bolton [aged 23] and Christian Freschville [aged 19]. She died in childbirth. The child died seven days later on 29th May 1653. Both were buried at the St John the Baptist's Church, Staveley [Map]. Monument erected by her husband Charles Paulet 1st Duke Bolton the future Duke Bolton. Reclining figure with Chrisom Child.
Armorials...
Top Middle
Paulet Arms differenced with a label argent three points impaled
Freschville Arms.
Top Left: His Arms, in sixths 1
Paulet Arms 2 Possibly
Seymour Arms although wings should be Or 3 Unknown Arms 4 Unknown Arms 5 Unknown Arms 6
St John Arms with a label argent three points to reflect his status as son of the current owner of the Arms.
Top Right: Her Arms, in sixths 1
Freschville Arms 2 Unknown Arms 3 Unknown Arms 4 Unknown Arms 5 Unknown Arms 6
Harrington Arms.
Christian Freschville: On 13th December 1633 she was born to John Freschville 1st Baron Frescheville and Sarah Harrington. On 28th February 1652 Charles Paulet 1st Duke Bolton and she were married. He the son of John Paulet 5th Marquess Winchester and Jane Savage Marchioness Winchester.
On 31st March 1682 John Freschville 1st Baron Frescheville [aged 74] died. Baron Frescheville of Staveley extinct. The last of the male line of Freschville. He was buried in St John the Baptist's Church, Staveley [Map] where his third wife Anna Charlotte De Vic commissioned a monument. Sarcophagus with seated putti.
Anna Charlotte De Vic: she was born to Henry de Vic. In December 1666 John Freschville 1st Baron Frescheville and she were married. On 12th November 1717 she died.

