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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Rear-Admiral Richard Spry 1715-1775

On or before 2nd December 1715, the date he was baptised at St Anthony's Church, St Anthony in Roseland [Map], Rear-Admiral Richard Spry was born to George Spry [aged 30] and Mary Bullock.

In 1732 [his father] George Spry [aged 47] died.

On 26th April 1740 Rear-Admiral Richard Spry [aged 24] passed the Lieutenant's Examination.

In 1750 Rear-Admiral Richard Spry [aged 34] took part in the siege of Pondicherry.

From 17th October 1753 Rear-Admiral Richard Spry [aged 37] was captain of the frigate HMS Garland.

In 1755 Rear-Admiral Richard Spry [aged 39] became senior officer at Halifax, Nova Scotia.

In 1760 Rear-Admiral Richard Spry [aged 44] was given command of HMS Orford in 1760.

In 1762 Rear-Admiral Richard Spry [aged 46] was appointed Commander-in-Chief, North American Station.

On 24th June 1773 Rear-Admiral Richard Spry [aged 57] was knighted at Portsmotu

On 25th November 1775 Rear-Admiral Richard Spry [aged 59] died unmarried at Place House, St Anthony in Roseland [Map]. He was buried at St Anthony's Church, St Anthony in Roseland [Map] where he has a monument sculpted by Richard "The Elder" Westmacott [aged 28]. His estates were inherited by his nephew Lieutenant Thomas Davy [aged 21] who adopted the surname Spry.

Sacred to the Memory of Sir Richard Spry, KT Rear admiral of the White Several years Commander-in-Chief of H.M. Ships in North-America, the Mediterranean, and Plymouth. He was envoy to the Emporer of Morocco and the States of Barbary. He died on the 25st of November 1775, aged 60 years. This momument as a testimony of gratitude is erected by his affectionate nephew Admiral Thomas Spry.