On this Day in History ... 3rd January

03 Jan is in January.

See Births, Marriages and Deaths.

Events on the 3rd January

On 3rd January 1136 King Henry I "Beauclerc" England was buried at Reading Abbey, Berkshire [Map]. The Archbishop of Canterbury William of Corbeil [aged 66], Bishop of Winchester Henry of Blois [aged 38], Bishop Roger of Sailsbury and Edwar,d Abbot of Reading, were present at the burial, where masses were sung, rich offerings made and alms were distributed to the poor of Reading. The dead king's effigy was displayed on a hearse, and his body was buried in a tomb before the abbey church's High Altar, while King Stephen [aged 42] sat enthroned watching the rituals. The abbey church and the ground immediately outside became a desirable location for other royals and nobles to be buried.

On 3rd January 1290 Constance Burgundy Queen Consort Castile Queen Consort Leon was born to Denis I King Portugal [aged 28] and Elisabeth Barcelona Queen Consort Portugal [aged 19]. She a great x 3 granddaughter of King Henry "Curtmantle" II of England. She married 23rd January 1302 her half first cousin once removed Ferdinand IV King Castile IV King Leon, son of Sancho IV King Castile IV King Leon and Maria Molina Queen Consort Castile Queen Consort Leon, and had issue.

On 3rd January 1307 Otto Wittelsbach IV Duke Lower Bavaria was born to Stephen Wittelsbach I Duke Bavaria [aged 35] and Jutta Jawor Duchess Bavaria. He a great x 4 grandson of King Henry "Curtmantle" II of England. He married 1330 his fourth cousin Richardis Jülich Duchess Lower Bavaria, daughter of Gerhard Jülich V Count Jülich and Elisabeth Brabant Countess Jülich.

On 3rd January 1322 Philip V King France I King Navarre [aged 29] died. His brother Charles [aged 27] succeeded IV King France: Capet, I King Navarre although his niece was by right successor to the Kingdom of Navarre.

Chronicle of Geoffrey le Baker of Swinbroke. In the year 1322, upon the death of Philip [3rd January], son of Philip, King of the French, his brother Charles, having attained the crown of the fraternal kingdom, sent to England Lord Andrew of Florence1 and another knight to summon the King [of England] to present himself before the new King of the French and to do homage for the Duchy of Aquitaine and his other lands held within the kingdom of the said French king. And although Hugh Despenser and Robert de Baldock,2 by their influence and persuasion, had sufficiently instructed the minds of the aforementioned envoys, as they thought, that they should not notify the King of the true cause of their coming, nevertheless, upon their departure, they advised him, as if in counsel, that he should present himself to the new king to do homage. Upon this warning or summons, the said Lord Andrew of Florence, who was notary to Charles, secretly and without the knowledge of the council of the King of England, made a public instrument. By virtue of this document, the King of France, proceeding legally against the King [of England], had several lands from the Duchy of Gascony and the County of Ponthieu seized for his own use, the King of England believing, as he had been informed, that the said summons was not legally valid. This seizure on behalf of the reigning Charles was carried out by his uncle, Charles of Valois, a man who held a deep hatred for the English. With a great army, under the pretence of an assigned legation and claiming disobedience and failure of homage by the King of England as Duke of Aquitaine, he seized the County of Ponthieu and all of Agenais for the benefit of his nephew, the French king. Finally, advancing to the town of Réole, he found it defended by Edmund of Woodstock, the King of England's brother and Earl of Kent. A truce was eventually agreed upon between them,3 to last for as long as peace negotiations could be conducted between the kings. The town was surrendered, and both parties returned to their own territories.

Anno MCCCXXIJ, Philippo filio Philippi, rege Francorum, universe carnis viam ingresso, germanus suus Karolus, regni fraterni adeptus I diadema, misit in Angliam dominum Andream de Florencia et alium quemdam militem ad citandum regem ut se presentaret novo regi Gallorum et faceret homagium pro ducatu Aquitannie et aliis suis terris in predicti regis regno, et, licet Hugo de Spenser et Robertus de Baldok precibus et meritis predictorum nunciorum mentes informassent suffi cienter, ut ipsi putabant, quod causam sui adventus non notificarent regi, tamen in suo recessu monuerunt ipsum, quasi consulendo, quod homagium facturus tunc regi se presentaret. Super qua monicione seu citacione dictus dominus Andreas de Florencia, qui Karolo fuit notarius, concilio regis Anglorum hoc ignorante, fecit pupplicum instrumentum, cuius virtute rex Francie, contra regem facto processu, terras nonnullas de ducatu Vasconie et comitatum Pontivie in suas utilitates fecerat seysiri, rege Anglie putante, sicut fuit informatus, predictam citacionem non valuisse de iure. Prefatam seisinam ex parte Karoli regnantis cepit eius patruus Karolus de Valoys, vir habens Anglicos maxime odiosos, qui cum magno exercitu, fungens affectata legacione, pretensis regis Anglie, ut ducis Aquitannie, inobediencia et homagio non facto, comitatum Pontivie et totam Agennam in utile dominium regis nepotis sui seisivit. Tandem progrediens ad villam de Regula, invenit eam defensam per Edmundum de Wodestoke, germanum regis Anglie et comitem Cancie; inter quos finaliter initis treugis, duraturis per tempus quo posset de pace inter reges tractari, reddita quoque villa, utraque pars ad propria remeavit.

Note 1. Andrieu de Florence, dean of Furnes. Adam Murimuth Continuation.

Note 2. Robert Baldock became archdeacon of Middlesex in 1314, keeper of the privy seal in 1320, and chancellor 20th August 1323. He died 28th May 1327.

Note 3. 22nd September 1324.

On 3rd January 1430 Roger Thornton died. Monumental brass at the Cathedral Church St Nicholas, Newcastle upon Tyne [Map].

On 3rd January 1437 Catherine of Valois Queen Consort England [aged 35] died at Bermondsey Abbey [Map]. She had been married aged eighteen to King Henry V of England for two years three months. Their son was King Henry VI of England and II of France [aged 15].

After Henry V died she disappears somewhat from the records other than for Parliament to legislate against her marrying without permission, which she then duly did, to Owen Tudor [aged 37], and had two sons, the elder of which was father to King Henry VII of England and Ireland.

Her children Edmund [aged 6] and Jasper [aged 5] were subsequently placed in the care of Abbess Katherine Pole, then Abbess of Barking. Katherine's brother William "Jackanapes" de la Pole 1st Duke of Suffolk [aged 40] had the wardship of Edmund's future wife Margaret Beaufort Countess Richmond.

Chronicle of Gregory. 3rd January 1437. Ande that same year Quene Kateryn [aged 35] dyde at Bredmonsey [Map] the iij day of Jany ver.

On 3rd January 1458 Henry Stafford [aged 33] and Margaret Beaufort Countess Richmond [aged 14] were married probably at Maxstoke Castle [Map]. Her third marriage (second if you don't include the one annulled) aged fourteen and already the mother of the future King Henry VII. She had no further issue. She the daughter of John Beaufort 1st Duke of Somerset and Margaret Beauchamp Duchess Somerset [aged 48]. He the son of Humphrey Stafford 1st Duke of Buckingham [aged 55] and Anne Neville Duchess Buckingham [aged 50]. They were second cousins. He a great x 2 grandson of King Edward III of England. She a great x 2 granddaughter of King Edward III of England.

Wriothesley's Chronicle [1508-1562]. 3rd January 1514. A Parlement kept at Westminster,c where was graunted to the King [aged 22] of all men's goodes 6d. in the pownde.

Note c. This paragraph has been misplaced in MS. before the preceding; the Parliament did not meet till the 3rd January, 1514.

On 3rd January 1619 Nicholas Hilliard [aged 72] died.

On 3rd January 1642 Augustine Warner was born to Colonel Augustine Warner [aged 30] at York County.

On 3rd January 1645 King Charles I [aged 44] rewarded his supporters with Baronies...

John Brooke 1st Baron Cobham [aged 69] was created 1st Baron Cobham. Frances Bampfield Baroness Cobham by marriage Baroness Cobham.

John Lucas 1st Baron Lucas Shenfield [aged 38] was created 1st Baron Lucas of Shenfield with special remainder to the male issue of his brother Thomas Lucas [aged 66].

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.

Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.

Samuel Pepys' Diary. 3rd January 1662. So to dinner to my Lord Crew's [aged 64] with him and his Lady, and after dinner to Faithorne's [aged 46], and there bought some pictures of him; and while I was there, comes by the King life-guard, he being gone to Lincoln's Inn this afternoon to see the Revells there; there being, according to an old custom, a prince and all his nobles, and other matters of sport and charge.

Samuel Pepys' Diary. 3rd January 1665. Up, and by coach to Sir Ph. Warwicke's [aged 55], the streete being full of footballs, it being a great frost, and found him and Mr. Coventry [aged 37] walking in St. James's Parke. I did my errand to him about the felling of the King's timber in the forests, and then to my Lord of Oxford [aged 37], Justice in Eyre, for his consent thereto, for want whereof my Lord Privy Seale stops the whole business. I found him in his lodgings, in but an ordinary furnished house and roome where he was, but I find him to be a man of good discreet replys.

John Evelyn's Diary. 3rd January 1666. I supped in Nonesuch House [Map], whither the office of the Exchequer was transferred during the plague, at my good friend. Mr. Packer's [aged 47], and took an exact view of the plaster statues and bass-relievos inserted between the timbers and puncheons of the outside walls of the Court; which must needs have been the work of some celebrated Italian. I much admired how they had lasted so well and entire since the time of Henry VIII., exposed as they are to the air; and pity it is they are not taken out and preserved in some dry place; a gallery would become them. There are some mezzo-relievos as big as the life; the story is of the Heathen Gods, emblems, compartments, etc. The palace [Map] consists of two courts, of which the first is of stone, castle like, by the Lord Lumleys (of whom it was purchased), the other of timber, a Gothic fabric, but these walls incomparably beautiful. I observed that the appearing timber-puncheons, entrelices, etc., were all so covered with scales of slate, that it seemed carved in the wood and painted, the slate fastened on the timber in pretty figures, that has, like a coat of armour, preserved it from rotting. There stand in the garden two handsome stone pyramids, and the avenue planted with rows of fair elms, but the rest of these goodly trees, both of this and of Worcester Park adjoining, were felled by those destructive and avaricious rebels in the late war, which defaced one of the stateliest seats his Majesty had.

Samuel Pepys' Diary. 3rd January 1666. Up, and all the morning till three in the afternoon examining and fitting up my Pursers' paper and sent it away by an Expresse. Then comes my wife, and I set her to get supper ready against I go to the Duke of Albemarle [aged 57] and back again; and at the Duke's with great joy I received the good news of the decrease of the plague this week to 70, and but 253 in all; which is the least Bill hath been known these twenty years in the City. Through the want of people in London is it, that must make it so low below the ordinary number for Bills.

John Evelyn's Diary. 3rd January 1687. A Seal to confirm a gift of £4,000 per annum for 99 years to the Lord Treasurer out of the Post Office, and £1,700 per annum for ever out of Lord Grey's [aged 31] estate.

John Evelyn's Diary. 3rd January 1687. There was now another change of the great officers. The Treasury was put into commission, two professed Papists among them, viz, Lords Bellasis [aged 72] and Dover [aged 51], joined with the old ones, Lord Godolphin [aged 41], Sir Stephen Fox [aged 59], and Sir John Ernley.

St Werburgh's Church, Hanbury [Map]. Near to this place lieth the body of George Timbrill the Edler who dyed the 3rd day of January 1703.

On 3rd January 1725 John Cavendish [aged 33] died. He was buried at St Cuthbert's Church, Doveridge [Map].

John Cavendish: Around 1692 he was born to Henry Cavendish and Mary Tyrrell.

Letters of George III. 4265. [Undated. After 3rd January 1759] I send your Majesty the Dutchess of Argyle's [aged 25] letter to me, I know there is also one for you. Her indelicacy goes a great way, and I am of opinion with my humble advice that your Majesty would now do better to let the Duke of Manchester acquaint her that her daughter [Elizabeth Hamilton Countess Derby [aged 5]] should not come to Court, or be ill received, as letting her come will open the door to others, for though she is not divorced, she has stood a public tryal. I declare I shall neither speak to mother or daughter, and if she leaves my family I shall but get rid of an impertinent person who has always behaved disrespectful to me.

There will be time enough to send to the Duke of Manchester. I shall not answer the Dutchess of Argyle's letter.

On 3rd January 1759 John Campbell 5th Duke Argyll [aged 35] and Elizabeth Gunning Duchess Hamilton and Argyll [aged 25] were married. He the son of John Campbell 4th Duke Argyll [aged 66] and Mary Drummond Bellenden.

On 3rd January 1792 Jacobo Fitz James Stuart 11th Duke Veragua 6th Duke Berwick was born to Jacobo Fitz James Stuart 10th Duke Veragua 5th Duke Berwick [aged 18] and María Teresa Fernández Silva Duchess Veragua Duchess Berwick [aged 19]. He a great x 4 grandson of King James II of England Scotland and Ireland. He died aged three in 1795.

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.

Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.

On 3rd January 1819 Frances Thomasina Lambart Countess Talbot [aged 47] died. Monument at St Mary the Virgin Church, Ingestre [Map] to her and her son Walter who died young commissioned by her husband Charles Chetwynd-Talbot 2nd Earl Talbot [aged 41].

Four Years' Service in India. [3rd January 1849] As daylight dawned on the morning of the third, our men spread themselves all over the town, in search of plunder. All the houses were ransacked, and what could not be carried off was completely destroyed. Temples were broken into, and the brass idols, and Korans carried away and sold. I brought some of the brass images or idols away from one temple, intending to keep them as a curiosity, but I gave them away afterwards. Some of our men met with plenty of silk and cloth: swords, matchlocks, muskets, a number of flint guns, and bows and arrows were found, with loads of powder and ball. Some were made up into cartridges, and some were loose in boxes. There were bullets of all sizes. Stables full of horses and harness, and yards full of cattle, camels, and elephants were discovered, the animals being taken by the prize agent and his men. All our men, European and native, looked for the precious metals. They took the rings and chains from every dead man, as well as the living. All that I brought away from the place was a breast-plate, which I took from one of the enemy who was shot when we were storming the town. He belonged to the 6th Kalsagee regiment. I also had a dagger, of the sort which the natives use in close quarters, and a piece of beautiful carpet. This kind of work and destruction was put an end to, as soon as it got to the General's and Brigadier's knowledge; and not before it was time — for every place was turned upside down. After this order was given, many of the men were not satisfied ; they took themselves off, and were not checked until several had been sent to camp as prisoners, and one of my regiment was tried and flogged for his conduct.

After 3rd January 1857. Monument at St Mary the Virgin Church, Overton to Mary Fletcher relict of Captain Richard Walker of Fulmer in Buckinghamshire and daughter of Phillips Lloyd Fletcher.

Mary Fletcher: Captain Richard Walker of Fulmer in Buckinghamshire and she were married. she was born to Phillips Lloyd Fletcher and Eleanor Wynne. On 3rd January 1857 she died.

The Diary of George Price Boyce 1859. 3rd January 1859. Took Simeon Solomon [aged 18] to the Hogarth to see the works exhibited. Rossetti [aged 30] has a beautiful solemn purple drawing of Mary in the house of John. As Simeon said, "The impression of intense, thoughtful repose after the strife and excitement of the previous years is most impressive." R. also sent my little "Caper Nimbly" drawing, but has changed the subject into a "Borgia," and made the old grey-haired man into a Pope.

On 3rd January 1864 Lewis De Crespigny Buckle [aged 19] died at sea whilst on the S.S. Nemesis, a collier that was transporting coal from Newcastle to Melbourne. Memorial at Chapel of St John the Evangelist, Bolton [Map].

Lewis De Crespigny Buckle: In 1845 he was born to Reverend Matthew Hughes George Buckle.

On 3rd January 1864 William Behnes [aged 69] died in Middlesex Hospital, Fitzrovia having been found two days before unconscious in a gutter, with only three pence in his pocket.

On 3rd January 1874 William Amelius Aubrey Beauclerk 10th Duke St Albans [aged 33] and Grace Bernal Duchess St Albans [aged 26] were married at Newtown Anner, County Tipperary. She by marriage Duchess St Albans. He the son of William Beauclerk 9th Duke St Albans and Elizabeth Catherine Gubbins Duchess St Albans [aged 56].

On 3rd January 1894 Hungerford Crewe 3rd Baron Crewe [aged 81] died of influenza unmarried. Baron Crewe of Crewe in Cheshire extinct. His estates were inherited by his nephew Robert Offley Ashburton Crewe Milnes 1st Marquess of Crewe [aged 35] who adopted the additional surname Crewe.

On 3rd January 1906 Evelyn Francis Edward Seymour 17th Duke of Somerset [aged 23] and Edith Mary Parker Duchess Somerset [aged 25] were married. He the son of Edward Hamilton Seymour 16th Duke of Somerset [aged 45] and Rowena Wall Duchess Somerset [aged 44].

On 3rd January 1913 James Hamilton 2nd Duke of Abercorn [aged 74] died. His son James [aged 43] succeeded 3rd Duke Abercorn, 4th Marquess Abercorn, 12th Earl Abercorn. Rosalind Cecilia Caroline Bingham Duchess Abercorn [aged 43] by marriage Duchess Abercorn.

After 3rd January 1917. St Leonard's Church, Ribbesford [Map]. War grave of Lance Corporal Ernest Henry Moles of the Worcestershire Regiment. Son of Thomas and Sarah Moles; husband of Fanny Elizabeth Moles, of 25, Severn Side South, Bewdley, Worcs. Served in the South African War. His son, Arthur Leonard Moles was born on the 26th May 1911, served with the 3rd Heavy Anti-Aircraft Regiment Royal Artillery and died while a prisoner of war of the Japanese on 27th September 1943.

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.

Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.

On 3rd January 1965 Alexander Victor Frederick Villiers Russell [aged 90] died at Cadogen Gardens, Chelsea. He was buried at St Michael's Church, Chenies [Map].

Alexander Victor Frederick Villiers Russell: On 27th June 1874 Victor Alexander Frederick Villiers Russell and Alexander Victor Frederick Villiers Russell were born to Odo Russell 1st Baron Ampthill and Emily Theresa Villiers Baroness Ampthill. Before 11th February 1909 Alexander Victor Frederick Villiers Russell and Annora Margaret Bromley Martin were divorced. On 11th February 1909 Alexander Victor Frederick Villiers Russell and Marjorie Gladys Guinness were married in Christ Church, Broadway, London. They were fourth cousins. He a great x 5 grandson of King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland.

On 3rd January 2019 Jennet Adrian aka Campbell [aged 92] died. Her funeral took place on Friday, 18th January, at St Gerran's Church, Gerrans [Map]. She was buried at St Anthony's Church, St Anthony in Roseland [Map].

Jennet Adrian aka Campbell: In 1927 he was born to Edgar Adrian 1st Baron Adrian. In 1978 Jennet Adrian aka Campbell moved to the Roseland peninsula and administered the Radford Trust, established by Maisie and Evelyn, to support young Cornish musicians. She introduced and catered for chamber music weekends, workshops and masterclasses with visiting professional instrumentalists. In 2011 he was appointed MBE for services to music and education in Cornwall.

Births on the 3rd January

On 3rd January 1290 Constance Burgundy Queen Consort Castile Queen Consort Leon was born to Denis I King Portugal [aged 28] and Elisabeth Barcelona Queen Consort Portugal [aged 19]. She a great x 3 granddaughter of King Henry "Curtmantle" II of England. She married 23rd January 1302 her half first cousin once removed Ferdinand IV King Castile IV King Leon, son of Sancho IV King Castile IV King Leon and Maria Molina Queen Consort Castile Queen Consort Leon, and had issue.

On 3rd January 1307 Otto Wittelsbach IV Duke Lower Bavaria was born to Stephen Wittelsbach I Duke Bavaria [aged 35] and Jutta Jawor Duchess Bavaria. He a great x 4 grandson of King Henry "Curtmantle" II of England. He married 1330 his fourth cousin Richardis Jülich Duchess Lower Bavaria, daughter of Gerhard Jülich V Count Jülich and Elisabeth Brabant Countess Jülich.

On 3rd January 1575 Robert West was born to Thomas West 2nd Baron De La Warr [aged 19] and Anne Knollys Baroness De La Warr [aged 19]. He married 1594 Elizabeth Cocke.

On 3rd January 1621 William Trollope 2nd Baronet was born to Thomas Trollope 1st Baronet [aged 26] and Hester Sturt Street.

On 3rd January 1622 Humphrey Winch 1st Baronet was born to Onslow Winch of Everton, Bedfordshire and Judith Burgoyne [aged 20]. He married before 1650 Rebecca Browne and had issue.

On 3rd January 1642 Augustine Warner was born to Colonel Augustine Warner [aged 30] at York County.

On 3rd January 1648 Edward Montagu 2nd Earl Sandwich was born to Edward Montagu 1st Earl Sandwich [aged 22] and Jemima Crew Countess Sandwich [aged 23] at Hinchinbrooke. He married before 17th March 1668 his half fifth cousin once removed Mary Anne Boyle, daughter of Richard Boyle 2nd Earl Cork 1st Earl Burlington and Elizabeth Clifford Countess Burlington, and had issue.

On 3rd January 1657 Heneage Finch 5th Earl Winchilsea was born to Heneage Finch 3rd Earl Winchilsea [aged 29] and Mary Seymour Countess Winchelsea [aged 20]. He was baptised on 11th January 1657. He married 15th May 1684 Anne Kingsmill Countess Winchelsea.

On 3rd January 1672 David Erskine 9th Earl Buchan was born.

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.

Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.

On 3rd January 1676 Hester Firebrace Countess Desmond and Denbigh was born to Basil Firebrace 1st Baronet [aged 24] and Elizabeth Hough Lady Firebrace. She married 22nd June 1695 Basil Feilding 3rd Earl Desmond 4th Earl Denbigh, son of William Feilding 2nd Earl Desmond 3rd Earl Denbigh and Mary Carey Countess Desmond and Denbigh, and had issue.

On 3rd January 1692 Jacob Astley 3rd Baronet was born to Philip Astley 2nd Baronet [aged 24]. He married 21st February 1723 his second cousin Lucy L'Estrange, daughter of Nicholas L'Estrange 4th Baronet and Ann Wodehouse Lady Strange, and had issue.

On 3rd January 1700 Mary Cavendish Countess of Westmoreland was born to Henry Cavendish [aged 27] and Rhoda Cartright. She married August 1716 her fourth cousin twice removed John Fane 7th Earl of Westmoreland, son of Vere Fane 4th Earl of Westmoreland and Rachel Bence Countess of Westmoreland.

On 3rd January 1719 Basil Feilding 5th Earl Desmond 6th Earl Denbigh was born to William Feilding 4th Earl Desmond 5th Earl Denbigh [aged 22] and Isabella Jong Countess Desmond and Denbigh. He married (1) 12th April 1757 Mary Cotton Countess Desmond and Denbigh, daughter of John Cotton 6th Baronet, and had issue (2) 21st July 1783 Sarah Farnham Countess Desmond and Denbigh.

On 3rd January 1745 John Scott was born to Francis Scott [aged 23] and Caroline Campbell 1st Baroness Greenwich [aged 27]. He a great x 3 grandson of King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland. He died aged four in 1749.

On 3rd January 1747 Robert Henley 2nd Earl Northington was born to Robert Henley 1st Earl Northington [aged 39] and Jane Huband.

On 3rd January 1750 Christian Harriet Fox-Strangways was born to Stephen Fox-Strangways 1st Earl of Ilchester [aged 45] and Elizabeth Strangways-Horner Countess Ilchester [aged 28]. She married before 13th December 1772 John Dyke Acland, son of John Dyke Acland 7th Baronet and Elizabeth Dyke Lady Acland, and had issue.

On 3rd January 1773 John Head 7th Baronet was born to Edmund Head 6th Baronet [aged 40].

On 3rd January 1775 Francis Caulfeild 2nd Earl Charlemont was born to James Caulfeild 1st Earl Charlemont [aged 46].

Deeds of King Henry V

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.

Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.

On 3rd January 1784 James Doughty-Tichborne 10th Baronet was born to Henry Tichborne 7th Baronet [aged 27]. He married 1st August 1827 Henriette Felicite Seymour Lady Tichborne and had issue.

On 3rd January 1788 Admiral Maurice Berkeley 1st Baron FitzHardinge was born illegitimately to Frederick Augustus Berkeley 5th Earl Berkeley [aged 43] and Mary Cole. He a great x 3 grandson of King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland.

On 3rd January 1792 Jacobo Fitz James Stuart 11th Duke Veragua 6th Duke Berwick was born to Jacobo Fitz James Stuart 10th Duke Veragua 5th Duke Berwick [aged 18] and María Teresa Fernández Silva Duchess Veragua Duchess Berwick [aged 19]. He a great x 4 grandson of King James II of England Scotland and Ireland. He died aged three in 1795.

On 3rd January 1799 Henry Bold-Hoghton 8th Baronet was born to Henry Hoghton 7th Baronet [aged 30] and Susannah Brooke Lady Hoghton [aged 37].

On 3rd January 1800 Charles Edward Kennaway was born to John Kennaway 1st Baronet [aged 41] and Charlotte Amyatt Lady Kennaway. He married (1) 17th June 1830 Emma Noel (2) 30th December 1845 Olivia Way.

On 3rd January 1807 Georgiana Anson was born to Thomas Anson 1st Viscount Anson [aged 39] and Anne Margaret Coke Viscountess Anson [aged 27].

On 3rd January 1822 Washington Sewallis Shirley 9th Earl Ferrers was born to Robert William Shirley [aged 38] and Anne Weston. He married 23rd July 1844 Annabella Augusta Chichester Countess Ferrers, daughter of Edward Chichester 4th Marquess Donegal and Amelia Ogrady Marchioness County Donegal, and had issue.

On 3rd January 1835 Sarah Cox aka Fanny Cornforth was born to William Cox [aged 21] and Jane Woolgar [aged 21] at Steyning, Sussex. She was baptised on 1st February 1835. She married (1) August 1860 Timothy Hughes (2) 1879 John Schott.

On 3rd January 1843 Robert Devereux 16th Viscount Hereford was born to Robert Devereux 15th Viscount Hereford [aged 33]. He married 16th July 1863 Mary Anna Morgan Viscountess Hereford, daughter of Charles Morgan 1st Baron Tredegar and Rosamund Mundy, and had issue.

Deeds of King Henry V

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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On 3rd January 1845 Eleanor Cecilia Hare was born to William Hare 2nd Earl Listowel [aged 43] and Maria Augusta Windham Countess Listowel [aged 39]. She married 9th June 1864 Edward Heneage 1st Baron Heneage and had issue.

On 3rd January 1850 Reverend John Stafford Northcote was born to Stafford Henry Northcote 1st Earl Iddesleigh [aged 31] and Cecilia Frances Farrer Countess Iddesleigh.

On 3rd January 1887 Henry Johnson 5th Baronet was born to Henry Johnson 4th Baronet [aged 31] and Ella Dyson Lady Orde-Powlett.

On 3rd January 1904 Charles Fitzroy 5th Baron Southampton was born to Charles Fitzroy 4th Baron Southampton [aged 36] and Hilda Mary Dundas Baroness Southampton [aged 31]. He married (1) 22nd June 1927 Margaret Drake Baroness Southampton and had issue (2) 12th January 1940 Phyllis Joan Leslie Baroness Southampton (3) 3rd February 1951 Rachel Christine Zaman Baroness Southampton.

On 3rd January 1945 Charles Duncombe 6th Baron Feversham was born to Colonel Anthony Duncombe-Anderson [aged 37]

On 3rd January 1956 Miranda Amadea Chaplin was born to Anthony Chaplin 3rd Viscount Chaplin and Rosemary Lyttelton [aged 33].

On 3rd January 1968 Hugh John Frederick Sebastian Cholmeley 7th Baronet was born to Montague John Cholmeley 6th Baronet [aged 32] and Juliet Auriol Sally Nelson Lady Cholmeley [aged 27].

Marriages on the 3rd January

Chronicle of Geoffrey le Baker of Swinbroke

Baker was a secular clerk from Swinbroke, now Swinbrook, an Oxfordshire village two miles east of Burford. His Chronicle describes the events of the period 1303-1356: Gaveston, Bannockburn, Boroughbridge, the murder of King Edward II, the Scottish Wars, Sluys, Crécy, the Black Death, Winchelsea and Poitiers. To quote Herbert Bruce 'it possesses a vigorous and characteristic style, and its value for particular events between 1303 and 1356 has been recognised by its editor and by subsequent writers'. The book provides remarkable detail about the events it describes. Baker's text has been augmented with hundreds of notes, including extracts from other contemporary chronicles, such as the Annales Londonienses, Annales Paulini, Murimuth, Lanercost, Avesbury, Guisborough and Froissart to enrich the reader's understanding. The translation takes as its source the 'Chronicon Galfridi le Baker de Swynebroke' published in 1889, edited by Edward Maunde Thompson.

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On 3rd January 1458 Henry Stafford [aged 33] and Margaret Beaufort Countess Richmond [aged 14] were married probably at Maxstoke Castle [Map]. Her third marriage (second if you don't include the one annulled) aged fourteen and already the mother of the future King Henry VII. She had no further issue. She the daughter of John Beaufort 1st Duke of Somerset and Margaret Beauchamp Duchess Somerset [aged 48]. He the son of Humphrey Stafford 1st Duke of Buckingham [aged 55] and Anne Neville Duchess Buckingham [aged 50]. They were second cousins. He a great x 2 grandson of King Edward III of England. She a great x 2 granddaughter of King Edward III of England.

On 3rd January 1503 Philip Baden 1st Margrave Baden [aged 23] and Elisabeth of the Palatinate [aged 19] were married. They were second cousin once removed.

On 3rd January 1684 Henry Carew 2nd Baronet [aged 30] and Katherine Fownes were married.

On 3rd January 1759 John Campbell 5th Duke Argyll [aged 35] and Elizabeth Gunning Duchess Hamilton and Argyll [aged 25] were married. He the son of John Campbell 4th Duke Argyll [aged 66] and Mary Drummond Bellenden.

On 3rd January 1874 William Amelius Aubrey Beauclerk 10th Duke St Albans [aged 33] and Grace Bernal Duchess St Albans [aged 26] were married at Newtown Anner, County Tipperary. She by marriage Duchess St Albans. He the son of William Beauclerk 9th Duke St Albans and Elizabeth Catherine Gubbins Duchess St Albans [aged 56].

On 3rd January 1888 John Evelyn Gladstone 4th Baronet [aged 32] and Gertrude Theresa Miller were married.

On 3rd January 1906 Evelyn Francis Edward Seymour 17th Duke of Somerset [aged 23] and Edith Mary Parker Duchess Somerset [aged 25] were married. He the son of Edward Hamilton Seymour 16th Duke of Somerset [aged 45] and Rowena Wall Duchess Somerset [aged 44].

Deaths on the 3rd January

On 3rd January 1098 Bishop Walkelin died.

On 3rd January 1322 Philip V King France I King Navarre [aged 29] died. His brother Charles [aged 27] succeeded IV King France: Capet, I King Navarre although his niece was by right successor to the Kingdom of Navarre.

On 3rd January 1380 Roger Beauchamp 1st Baron Beauchamp Bletsoe [aged 75] died at Bletsoe Castle [Map]. His grandson Roger [aged 17] succeeded 2nd Baron Beauchamp Bletsoe in Bedfordshire.

On 3rd January 1415 Joane Northwoode Baroness Scales [aged 52] died.

On 3rd January 1437 Catherine of Valois Queen Consort England [aged 35] died at Bermondsey Abbey [Map]. She had been married aged eighteen to King Henry V of England for two years three months. Their son was King Henry VI of England and II of France [aged 15].

After Henry V died she disappears somewhat from the records other than for Parliament to legislate against her marrying without permission, which she then duly did, to Owen Tudor [aged 37], and had two sons, the elder of which was father to King Henry VII of England and Ireland.

Her children Edmund [aged 6] and Jasper [aged 5] were subsequently placed in the care of Abbess Katherine Pole, then Abbess of Barking. Katherine's brother William "Jackanapes" de la Pole 1st Duke of Suffolk [aged 40] had the wardship of Edmund's future wife Margaret Beaufort Countess Richmond.

The History of William Marshal, Earl of Chepstow and Pembroke, Regent of England. Book 1 of 2, Lines 1-10152.

The History of William Marshal was commissioned by his son shortly after William’s death in 1219 to celebrate the Marshal’s remarkable life; it is an authentic, contemporary voice. The manuscript was discovered in 1861 by French historian Paul Meyer. Meyer published the manuscript in its original Anglo-French in 1891 in two books. This book is a line by line translation of the first of Meyer’s books; lines 1-10152. Book 1 of the History begins in 1139 and ends in 1194. It describes the events of the Anarchy, the role of William’s father John, John’s marriages, William’s childhood, his role as a hostage at the siege of Newbury, his injury and imprisonment in Poitou where he met Eleanor of Aquitaine and his life as a knight errant. It continues with the accusation against him of an improper relationship with Margaret, wife of Henry the Young King, his exile, and return, the death of Henry the Young King, the rebellion of Richard, the future King Richard I, war with France, the death of King Henry II, and the capture of King Richard, and the rebellion of John, the future King John. It ends with the release of King Richard and the death of John Marshal.

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On 3rd January 1541 Bishop John Clerk died.

On 3rd January 1619 Nicholas Hilliard [aged 72] died.

On 3rd January 1631 Edward Conway 1st Viscount Conway [aged 67] died in St Martin's Lane. His son Edward [aged 36] succeeded 2nd Viscount Conway of Conway Castle. Frances Popham Viscountess Conway [aged 34] by marriage Viscountess Conway of Conway Castle.

On 3rd January 1662 Oliver St John 1st Baronet [aged 38] died. His son Andrew [aged 12] succeeded 2nd Baronet St John of Woodford in Northamptonshire.

On 3rd January 1695 Mary Windsor Lady Cookes [aged 37] died.

On 3rd January 1709 Samuel Barnardiston 2nd Baronet [aged 49] died. His brother Peletiah [aged 45] succeeded 3rd Baronet Barnardiston of Brightwell in Suffolk.

On 3rd January 1715 Henry Hunloke 2nd Baronet [aged 69] died. His son Thomas [aged 32] succeeded 3rd Baronet Hunloke of Wingerworth in Derbyshire.

On 3rd January 1721 Mary Smyth Lady Bouverie died. She was buried at St Peter's Church, Britford [Map].

On 3rd January 1759 John Buckworth 2nd Baronet [aged 54] died without legitimate issue. He was buried at Eton College Chapel [Map]. His brother Everard [aged 54] succeeded 3rd Baronet Buckworth of Sheen in Surrey.

The History of William Marshal, Earl of Chepstow and Pembroke, Regent of England. Book 1 of 2, Lines 1-10152.

The History of William Marshal was commissioned by his son shortly after William’s death in 1219 to celebrate the Marshal’s remarkable life; it is an authentic, contemporary voice. The manuscript was discovered in 1861 by French historian Paul Meyer. Meyer published the manuscript in its original Anglo-French in 1891 in two books. This book is a line by line translation of the first of Meyer’s books; lines 1-10152. Book 1 of the History begins in 1139 and ends in 1194. It describes the events of the Anarchy, the role of William’s father John, John’s marriages, William’s childhood, his role as a hostage at the siege of Newbury, his injury and imprisonment in Poitou where he met Eleanor of Aquitaine and his life as a knight errant. It continues with the accusation against him of an improper relationship with Margaret, wife of Henry the Young King, his exile, and return, the death of Henry the Young King, the rebellion of Richard, the future King Richard I, war with France, the death of King Henry II, and the capture of King Richard, and the rebellion of John, the future King John. It ends with the release of King Richard and the death of John Marshal.

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On 3rd January 1819 John Courtenay Throckmorton 5th Baronet [aged 65] died. His brother George [aged 64] succeeded 6th Baronet Throckmorton of Coughton in Warwickshire.

On 3rd January 1819 Frances Thomasina Lambart Countess Talbot [aged 47] died. Monument at St Mary the Virgin Church, Ingestre [Map] to her and her son Walter who died young commissioned by her husband Charles Chetwynd-Talbot 2nd Earl Talbot [aged 41].

On 3rd January 1825 Annabella Smith-Powlett [aged 70] died at Chislehurst, Kent.

On 3rd January 1859 Heneage Finch 5th Earl Aylesford [aged 72] died. His son Heneage [aged 34] succeeded 6th Earl Aylesford.

On 3rd January 1864 William Behnes [aged 69] died in Middlesex Hospital, Fitzrovia having been found two days before unconscious in a gutter, with only three pence in his pocket.

On 3rd January 1874 Sophia Coussmaker 22nd Baroness Clifford [aged 82] died. Her son Edward [aged 50] succeeded 23rd Baron de Clifford.

On 3rd January 1876 Anthony Rothschild 1st Baronet [aged 65] died. His nephew Nathan [aged 35] succeeded 2nd Baronet Rothschild of Tring Park in Hertfordshire.

On 3rd January 1881 Emily Harriey Shirley Baroness Suffield died.

On 3rd January 1886 William Brougham 2nd Baron Brougham and Vaux [aged 90] died. His son Henry [aged 49] succeeded 3rd Baron Brougham and Vaux. Adora Frances Olga Wells Lady Musgrave and Baroness Brougham [aged 37] by marriage Baroness Brougham and Vaux.

Chronicle of Walter of Guisborough

A canon regular of the Augustinian Guisborough Priory, Yorkshire, formerly known as The Chronicle of Walter of Hemingburgh, describes the period from 1066 to 1346. Before 1274 the Chronicle is based on other works. Thereafter, the Chronicle is original, and a remarkable source for the events of the time. This book provides a translation of the Chronicle from that date. The Latin source for our translation is the 1849 work edited by Hans Claude Hamilton. Hamilton, in his preface, says: 'In the present work we behold perhaps one of the finest samples of our early chronicles, both as regards the value of the events recorded, and the correctness with which they are detailed; Nor will the pleasing style of composition be lightly passed over by those capable of seeing reflected from it the tokens of a vigorous and cultivated mind, and a favourable specimen of the learning and taste of the age in which it was framed.'

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On 3rd January 1894 Hungerford Crewe 3rd Baron Crewe [aged 81] died of influenza unmarried. Baron Crewe of Crewe in Cheshire extinct. His estates were inherited by his nephew Robert Offley Ashburton Crewe Milnes 1st Marquess of Crewe [aged 35] who adopted the additional surname Crewe.

On 3rd January 1898 Seymour Egerton 4th Earl Wilton [aged 58] died. His son Arthur [aged 34] succeeded 5th Earl Wilton, 5th Viscount Grey de Wilton. Mariota Thellusson Countess Wilton [aged 24] by marriage Countess Wilton.

On 3rd January 1904 Emily Louise Shepherd Countess Belmore [aged 89] died.

On 3rd January 1906 George Croxton-Shiffner 4th Baronet [aged 86] died. His son John [aged 48] succeeded 5th Baronet Shiffner of Coombe in Sussex.

On 3rd January 1913 James Hamilton 2nd Duke of Abercorn [aged 74] died. His son James [aged 43] succeeded 3rd Duke Abercorn, 4th Marquess Abercorn, 12th Earl Abercorn. Rosalind Cecilia Caroline Bingham Duchess Abercorn [aged 43] by marriage Duchess Abercorn.

On 3rd January 1915 Caroline Susan Augusta Barrington Countess Normanton [aged 80] died.

On 3rd January 1950 William Walter Carlile 1st Baronet [aged 87] died. Baronet Carlile of Gayhurst in BucKinghamshire extinct.

On 3rd January 1965 Violet Mary Elliot-Murray-Kynynmound Baroness Astor [aged 75] died.

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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On 3rd January 1981 Princess Alice Countess Athlone [aged 97] died.

On 3rd January 1982 Edward Russell 26th Baron de Clifford [aged 74] died. His son John [aged 53] succeeded 27th Baron de Clifford.

On 3rd January 1994 Katharine Tennant Baroness Elliot of Harwood [aged 90] died. Baron Elliot of Harwood of Rulewater in Roxburghshire extinct since it had been created as a life peerage only.

On 3rd January 1995 Francis Williams 8th Baronet [aged 89] died. His brother Lawrence [aged 65] succeeded 9th Baronet Williams of Bodelwyddan in Flintshire.