Chronicle of Abbot Ralph of Coggeshall
The Chronicle of Abbot Ralph of Coggeshall (Chronicon Anglicanum) is an indispensable medieval history that brings to life centuries of English and European affairs through the eyes of a learned Cistercian monk. Ralph of Coggeshall, abbot of the Abbey of Coggeshall in Essex in the early 13th century, continued and expanded his community’s chronicle, documenting events from the Norman Conquest of 1066 into the tumultuous reign of King Henry III. Blending eyewitness testimony, careful compilation, and the monastic commitment to record-keeping, this chronicle offers a rare narrative of political intrigue, royal power struggles, and social upheaval in England and beyond. Ralph’s work captures the reigns of pivotal figures such as Richard I and King John, providing invaluable insights into their characters, decisions, and the forces that shaped medieval rule. More than a simple annal, Chronicon Anglicanum conveys the texture of medieval life and governance, making it a rich source for scholars and readers fascinated by English history, monastic authorship, and the shaping of the medieval world.
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Earl York is in Earldoms of England Alphabetically, Earldoms of England Chronologically, Extinct Earldoms of England.
Summary
22nd August 1138. William of Blois 1st Earl Albemarle 1st Earl York [aged 37] created.
20th August 1179. Hawise Blois 2nd Countess Albemarle and Essex extinct.
After 22nd August 1138 William of Blois 1st Earl Albemarle 1st Earl York [aged 37] was created 1st Earl York for his role at the Battle of the Standard; see Chronicle of John Prior of Hexham.
Around 1158 William of Blois 1st Earl Albemarle 1st Earl York [aged 57] and Cecily Skipton Countess Aumale and York [aged 20] were married. She by marriage Countess Albemarle, Countess York. The difference in their ages was 37 years. He the son of Stephen Blois Count Aumale and Hawise Mortimer Countess Aumale.
On 20th August 1179 William of Blois 1st Earl Albemarle 1st Earl York [aged 78] died. His daughter Hawise succeeded 2nd Countess Albemarle. Earl York extinct. The succession of the Earldom of York is somewhat unclear; it may have been created for life only, or for male succession only.