18 Feb is in February.
18th February 1478 Execution of George Duke of Clarence
1504 Henry Tudor created Prince of Wales
1653 Three Days' Battle aka Battle of Portland
Chronicum Anglicanum by Ralph Coggeshall. Pope Urban died, and he was succeeded by Gregory the chancellor, who was also called Master Albert, who held the papacy scarcely for two months, and was buried at Pisa; he was succeeded by Pope Clement. Gilbert Foliot1, bishop of London, also died.
Obiit Urbanus papa, cui successit Gregorius cancellarius, qui et magister Albertus dictus est, qui vix per duos menses papatum tenuit, et sepultus est apud Pise, cui successit Clemens papa. Obiit Gilebertus Foliot, Londoniensis episcopus.
Note 1. Bishop Gilbert Foliot, consecrated Bishop of Hereford in 1148, translated to London 1163, died 18th February 1187.
On 18th February 1238 Henry Otto Hohenstaufen was born to Frederick I King Jerusalem II Holy Roman Emperor [aged 43] and Isabella Plantagenet Holy Roman Empress [aged 24]. He a grandson of King John of England.
On 18th February 1391 Marie Montfort Duchess Alençon was born to John Montfort V Duke Brittany [aged 52] and Joanna of Navarre Queen Consort England [aged 21]. She a great x 3 granddaughter of King Henry III of England. She married 1396 her second cousin twice removed John Valois I Duke Alençon, son of Peter Valois II Count Alençon and Marie Chamaillart Countess Alençon, and had issue.
On 18th February 1397 Enguerrand de Coucy 1st Earl Bedford 1st Count Soissons [aged 57] died whilst a prisoner following the Battle of Nicopolis without male issue. Earl Bedford extinct. His daughter Marie [aged 30] succeeded Countess Soissons.
Memoires Jacques du Clercq. During the time that Charles, King of France, was at the abbey of Jumièges, on the 17th day of January in the said year 1449, the siege of Honfleur was undertaken by the Count of Dunois and the other lords of his company named above. They made great approaches with ditches, trenches, and mines, and battered the walls with bombards, cannon, and other engines, so that the English within, three to four hundred in number, whose leader and captain was the said Courson, agreed to surrender the town of Honfleur to the French on the 18th day of February following, provided that they were not relieved, and for this they gave hostages. To oppose any such relief, the French had their camps fortified, but the English did not come, because the Duke of Somerset did not aid them, he being inside the city of Caen, which he did not dare to abandon; and moreover they were not strong enough unless help had come to them from England. Therefore they surrendered the said town and departed, with their persons and goods safe, to England. Before that town, a French squire named Regnault Guillaume, then bailiff of Montargis, was killed by a cannon shot, which was a great loss. Meanwhile, the Duke of Alençon laid siege on all sides to the town and castle of Bellême; and the English within promised to surrender the town if the French were not attacked. A day was appointed, on which day the Duke of Alençon conducted himself honourably and valiantly, holding the field, he and Poton, lord of Sainte-Treille, with few men, until the appointed hour had passed. The English did not appear to give battle, but instead surrendered the town, departing with their persons and goods safe; they were two hundred fighting men, whose captain was one named Mathieu Go.
DURANT le temps que Charles, roy de Franche, estou en l'abbaye de Immeuges, le dix septiesme jour de janvier l'an xljx, fust fait le siege de Honfleur par le comte de Dunois et les aultres scioneurs dessus nommés de sa compagnie, lesquels feirent grandes approches de fossés, trencquis et mines, et feirent battre la muraille de bombardes, canons et engins volans, tellement que les Anglois qui dedans estoient de trois a quatre cens, dont estoit chief et maitre le susdit Courson, composerent a rendre icelle ville de Honfleur aulx Eranchois le dix buictiesme jour de febyrier ensuivant, cn cas qu'ils seroient secourus et de ce bailler hostaiges, pour lesquels combattre les Franchois feirent ordonner de clorre les camps, mais les Anglois n'y vindrent point, pour ce que le duc de Sombreset ne les secourut point, lequel estoit dedans la ville de Caen, lacuelle ville il n'osoit desemparer, et aussy ils n'estoient assés forts, s'il ne leur fust venu secours d'Angleterre; et pour ce rendirent ladite ville et s'en allerent, leurs corps et biens saulfs, en Angleterre; devant icelle ville fust tué d'ung canon ung escuyer franchois nommé Regnault Guillaume, qui lors estoit bailly de Montargis, de laquelle mort fust dommaige. Cependant le duc d'Al!enchon assiegea la ville et le chastel de Ballesmes de touts costés, et lors les Anglois qui dedans estoient promirent de rendre ladite ville au cas que les Franchois ne seroient combattus. Et fust jour assigné, auquel jour le duc d'Allenchon se gouverna honnorablement et valliamment, et tint la journée, lui et Poton, Sr de Ste Treille, a peu de gens, jusques a ce que l'heure fust passée, a laquelle journée les Anglois ne comparurent point; ains rendirent la ville, leurs corps et biens saulfs, lesquels estoient deux cens combattants, dont estoit capitaine uno nommé Mathago.
Memoires Jacques du Clercq. In that same year fifty-seven, the winter was so severe, so harsh and long, that from Martinmas in winter until the 18th of February there was no thaw, so that the great frost broke things apart; it froze so hard that people crossed the river Oise and many other rivers with carts and on horseback. In the end there fell very great snows, and in such abundance that when it thawed, there came such great floods that no man could remember having seen the like, and they caused much damage.
Oudıt an cinquante sept, il fust sy fort et grand hyver et long, que depuis le St Martin d'hyver jusqu'au dix huictiesme de febvrier il ne desgella pas, pourquoy le gros fust rompu; il gela sy fort que on passoit la rivierre d'Oise et plusieurs aultres rivierres a chariots et a cheval, et se feit en la fin moult grandes neiges, et sy grande multitude en queit, que quant il desgella il fit sy grande lavasse, qu'il n'estoit point memoire d'homme que on les euist veu si grandes, et feirent moult dommaiges.
On 18th February 1478 George York 1st Duke of Clarence [aged 28] was drowned in a butt of wine (Malmsey) wine in the Bowyer Tower in the Tower of London [Map]. "in a butt of Malmsey wine" may refer to 1. a butt full of Malmsey wine or 2. a butt that once contained Malmsey wine that was subsequently re-used for another purpose such as washing or bathing.
William Hussey [aged 35] conducted the impeachment of the Duke of Clarence for treason.
Richard, Duke of Gloucester [aged 25] succeeded 2nd Earl Richmond.
The only other person known to have been executed, or ritually killed, by drowning in a butt of wine is Muirchertach mac Muiredaig High King of Ireland (as reported by the Annals of Ulster) in his case at Newgrange Passage Tomb [Map].
Memoirs of Philip de Commines [1447-1511]. [18th February 1478]. King Edward caused his brother the Duke of Clarence, to be drowned in a butt [original France "pipe"] of malmsey, charging him with a design of endeavouring to dethrone him;
Croyland Chronicle 1478. The circumstances that happened in the ensuing Parliament my mind quite shudders to enlarge upon, for then was to be witnessed a sad strife carried on before these two brethren of such high estate.29 For not a single person uttered a word against the duke [aged 28], except the king [aged 35]; not one individual made answer to the king except the duke. Some parties were introduced, however, as to whom it was greatly doubted by many, whether they filled the office of accusers rather, or of witnesses: these two offices not being exactly suited to the same person in the same cause. The duke met all the charges made against him with a denial, and offered, if he could only obtain a hearing, to defend his cause with his own hand. But why delay in using many words? Parliament, being of opinion that the informations which they had heard were established, passed sentence upon him of condemnation, the same being pronounced by the mouth of Henry, duke of Buckingham [aged 23], who was appointed Seneschal of England for the occasion. After this, execution was delayed for a considerable time; until the Speaker of the Commons, coming to the upper house with his fellows, made a fresh request that the matter might be brought to a conclusion. In consequence of this, in a few days after, the execution, whatever its nature may have been, took place, (and would that it had ended these troubles!) in the Tower of London [Map], it being the year of our Lord, 1478, and the eighteenth of the reign of king Edward.
Note 29. One would think that "tantae himanitatis," can hardly mean "of such humanity," when applied to such persons as Edward the Fourth and his brother Clarence.
The History of King Richard the Third by Thomas More. [18th February 1478] George, Duke of Clarence [aged 28], was a goodly noble prince, and at all points fortunate, if either his own ambition had not set him against his brother [aged 35], or the envy of his enemies had not set his brother against him. For were it by the Queen [aged 41] and the lords of her blood, who highly maligned the King's kindred (as women commonly, not of malice but of nature, hate them whom their husbands love), or were it a proud appetite of the Duke himself intending to be king, in any case, heinous treason was there laid to his charge, and, finally, were he faulty or were he faultless, attainted was he by Parliament and judged to the death, and thereupon hastily drowned in a butt of malmesey, whose death, King Edward (although he commanded it), when he knew it was done, piteously bewailed and sorrowfully repented.
Chronicle of Robert Fabyan [-1512]. This yere, that is to meane ye xviii. daye of February [1478], the Duke of Clarence [aged 28] and....2brother to the King, thanne being prysoner in ye Tower [Map], was secretely put to deth and drowned in a barell of maluesye within the said Tower. And this mayer this yere pursued also the reparacyon of the wallys, but nat so dylygently as his predccessour dyd, wherfore it was nat spedde as it might haue been, and also he was a syke and a feble man, and hadde not so sharpe and quycke mynde as that other hadde. And one other cause was, whiche ensuythe of a generaltie, that for the more partie one mayer wyll nat fynesshe that thing whiche that other begynneth, for then they thynke, be the dede neuer so good and profitable, that the honoure therof shalbe ascribed to the begynner, and nat to the fynyssher, whiche lacke of charytie and deSire of veingiory causeth many good actes and dedys to dye and growe out of minde, to the great decaye of the cōmon weale of the cytie.
Note 2. second brother. edit. 1542. 1559.
On 18th February 1504 Henry VIII [aged 12] was created Prince of Wales and 1st Earl Chester. John Mordaunt 1st Baron Mordaunt [aged 24] was created Knight of the Bath. Richard Empson [aged 54] was knighted.
Grafton's Chronicle [1507-1573]. 18th February 1504. In which yeare the eighteenth day of February, the King [aged 47] at his Palace of Westminster, with all solemnity created his only son Henry Prince of Wales [aged 12], Earl of Chester, &c. which noble youngling succeded his father, not only in the inheritance and regality, but also was to him equal in honour, fame, learning and policy.
On 18th February 1516 Queen Mary I of England and Ireland was born to Henry VIII [aged 24] and Catherine of Aragon [aged 30] at Palace of Placentia, Greenwich [Map]. Margaret Bourchier 1st Baroness Bryan [aged 48] was created 1st Baroness Bryan and appointed the child's governess. Catherine York Countess Devon [aged 36] was her godmother. She married 25th July 1554 her first cousin once removed Philip "The Prudent" II King Spain, son of Charles V Holy Roman Emperor and Isabel Aviz Queen Consort Spain.
Wriothesley's Chronicle [1508-1562]. 18th February 1516. This yeare the Ladie Marie, Princes, was borne at Greenewich, in Februarie.
February 18th.
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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On 18th February 1520 Carlos Aviz was born to Manuel "Fortunate" I King Portugal [aged 50] and Eleanor of Austria Queen Consort France Queen Consort Portugal [aged 21]. He a great x 4 grandson of King Edward III of England. Coefficient of inbreeding 7.55%. He died aged one in 1521.
On 18th February 1528 Piers "Red" Butler 8th Earl Ormonde 1st Earl Ossory [aged 61] resigned their claim to the Ormonde inheritance since King Henry VIII of England and Ireland [aged 36] wanted the titles for Thomas Boleyn 1st Earl Wiltshire and Ormonde [aged 51] to whom they were subsequently granted.
On 18th February 1543 Charles "The Great" Lorraine III Duke Lorraine was born to Francis Lorraine I Duke Lorraine [aged 25] and Christina Oldenburg Duchess Lorraine [aged 21]. He married 1559 his fourth cousin Claude Valois Duchess Lorraine and had issue.
Wriothesley's Chronicle [1508-1562]. 18th February 1554. The 18 of February Bright,b one of the capteyns of the Londoners that fledd to Wyatt [aged 33], and xxii persons more of the Kentish men, were delivered to the sheriffe of Kent, to be executed in divers places in Kent appoynted by the Queens Councell.
Note b. In most chronicles spelt Brett, but in the Diary of a Resident in London Bart.
Henry Machyn's Diary. 18th February 1561. The iij yere of quen Elezabeth [aged 27] the xviij day of [February] was sant Gorge fest; how all the knyghtes of the garter stod that day in order, the furst
On the Quen['s side.]
The kyng Phelype [aged 33].
The constabulle of France [aged 67].
The yerle of Arundell [aged 48].
The yerle of Darbe [aged 51].
The duke of Northfoke [aged 24].
The lord Pagett [aged 55].
The yerle of Westmerland [aged 36].
The lord chamburlayn, Haward [aged 51].
The yerle of Shrowsbere [aged 33]
The lord Montyguw-Browne [aged 32].
The lord Gray of Wyltun [aged 52].
On the Emperowre('s) syd.
The emperowre Ferna[ndo.] [aged 57]
The prynse of Pyamont [aged 32].
The duke Vanholtt [aged 35].
The markes of Wynchester, tresorer [aged 78].
The yerle of Penbroke [aged 60].
The lord admerall Clynton [aged 49].
The maques of Northamtun-Pare [aged 49].
The yerle of Rutland-Rosse [aged 34].
The yerle of Sussex [aged 36].
The lord of Lugborow [aged 40].
The lord Robart Dudley [aged 28].
The lord of Hunsdon-Care [aged 34].
On 18th February 1598 Admiral Clement Paston [aged 77] died. Tomb in the Church of St Michael, Oxnead [Map]. Rush Mat.
Admiral Clement Paston: Around 1521 he was born to William Paston and Bridget Heydon. Before 18th February 1598 Admiral Clement Paston and Alice Pakington were married.
Diary of Anne Clifford. 18th February 1616. Next day was a marvellous day to me through the mercy of Gop, for it was generally thought that I must either have sealed to the argument or else have parted with my Lord [aged 26].
After 18th February 1646. Brass at St Laurence's Church, Ludlow [Map] to Frances, the wife of Henry Mello [?] of Ludlow, who died on 18 Feb 1646 aged twenty-six.
The Three Days' Battle aka Battle of Portland took place between 18th and 20th February 1653. The English fleet was attacked by the Dutch fleet.
Vice-Admiral William Goodson captained the Entrance.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th February 1660. Saturday. A great while at my vial and voice, learning to sing "Fly boy, fly boy", without book. So to my office, where little to do. In the Hall I met with Mr. Eglin and one Looker, a famous gardener, servant to my Lord Salsbury [aged 68], and among other things the gardener told a strange passage in good earnest.... Home to dinner, and then went to my Lord's lodgings to my turret there and took away most of my books, and sent them home by my maid. Thither came Capt. Holland to me who took me to the Half Moon tavern [Map] and Mr. Southorne, Blackburne's clerk. Thence he took me to the Mitre in Fleet Street, where we heard (in a room over the music room) very plainly through the ceiling. Here we parted and I to Mr. Wotton's, and with him to an alehouse and drank while he told me a great many stories of comedies that he had formerly seen acted, and the names of the principal actors, and gave me a very good account of it. Thence to Whitehall, where I met with Luellin and in the clerk's chamber wrote a letter to my Lord. So home and to bed. This day two soldiers were hanged in the Strand [Map] for their late mutiny at Somerset-house [Map].
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th February 1662. Having agreed with Sir Wm. Pen [aged 40] and my wife to meet them at the Opera, and finding by my walking in the streets, which were every where full of brick-battes and tyles flung down by the extraordinary wind the last night (such as hath not been in memory before, unless at the death of the late Protector), that it was dangerous to go out of doors; and hearing how several persons had been killed to-day by the fall of things in the streets, and that the pageant in Fleetstreet is most of it blown down, and hath broke down part of several houses, among others Dick Brigden's; and that one Lady Sanderson1, a person of quality in Covent Garden [Map], was killed by the fall of the house, in her bed, last night; I sent my boy home to forbid them to go forth. But he bringing me word that they are gone, I went thither and there saw "The Law against Lovers", a good play and well performed, especially the little girl's (whom I never saw act before) dancing and singing; and were it not for her, the loss of Roxalana [aged 19] would spoil the house.
Note 1. Ralph Josselin's diary describes this person as "Lady Saltonstall".
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th February 1664. Called up to the office and much against my will I rose, my head aching mightily, and to the office, where I did argue to good purpose for the King [aged 33], which I have been fitting myself for the last night against Mr. Wood about his masts, but brought it to no issue. Very full of business till noon, and then with Mr. Coventry [aged 36] to the African House, and there fell to my Lord Peterborough's [aged 42] accounts, and by and by to dinner, where excellent discourse, Sir G. Carteret [aged 54] and others of the African Company with us, and then up to the accounts again, which were by and by done, and then I straight home, my head in great pain, and drowsy, so after doing a little business at the office I wrote to my father about sending him the mastiff was given me yesterday. I home and by daylight to bed about 6 o'clock and fell to sleep, wakened about 12 when my wife came to bed, and then to sleep again and so till morning, and then:
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 4th March 1664. Up, my eye being pretty well, and then by coach to my Lord Sandwich [aged 38], with whom I spoke, walking a good while with him in his garden, which and the house is very fine, talking of my Lord Peterborough's [aged 42] accounts, wherein he is concerned both for the foolery as also inconvenience which may happen upon my Lord Peterborough's ill-stating of his matters, so as to have his gaine discovered unnecessarily. We did talk long and freely that I hope the worst is past and all will be well. There were several people by trying a new-fashion gun1 brought my Lord this morning, to shoot off often, one after another, without trouble or danger, very pretty.
Note 1. Many attempts to produce a satisfactory revolver were made in former centuries, but it was not till the present one that Colt's revolver was invented. On February 18th, 1661, Edward, Marquis of Worcester [aged 58], obtained Letters Patent for "an invencon to make certeyne guns or pistolls which in the tenth parte of one minute of an houre may, with a flaske contrived to that purpose, be re-charged the fourth part of one turne of the barrell which remaines still fixt, fastening it as forceably and effectually as a dozen thrids of any scrue, which in the ordinary and usual way require as many turnes". On March 3rd, 1664, Abraham Hill obtained Letters Patent for a "gun or pistoll for small shott, carrying seaven or eight charges of the same in the stocke of the gun"..
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th February 1665. Up, and to the office, where sat all the morning; at noon to the 'Change [Map], and thence to the Royall Oake taverne in Lombard Street, where Sir William Petty [aged 41] and the owners of the double-bottomed boat (The Experiment) did entertain my Lord Brunkard [aged 45], Sir R. Murrey, myself, and others, with marrow bones and a chine of beefe of the victuals they have made for this ship; and excellent company and good discourse: but, above all, I do value Sir William Petty.
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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Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th February 1665. So home, and till almost one o'clock in the morning at my office, and then home to supper and to bed. My Lord Sandwich [aged 39], and his fleete of twenty-five ships in the Downes, returned from cruising, but could not meet with any Dutchmen.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th February 1665. Thence home; and took my Lord Sandwich's [aged 39] draught of the harbour of Portsmouth, Hampshire [Map] down to Ratcliffe, to one Burston, to make a plate for the King [aged 34], and another for the Duke [aged 31], and another for himself; which will be very neat.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th February 1666. After dinner they gone, and it being a brave day, I walked to White Hall, where the Queene [aged 56] and ladies are all come: I saw some few of them, but not the Queene, nor any of the great beauties. I endeavoured to have seen my Lord Hinchingbrooke [aged 18], who come to town yesterday, but I could not.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th February 1668. Up by break of day, and walked down to the old Swan [Map], where I find little Michell building, his booth being taken down, and a foundation laid for a new house, so that that street is like to be a very fine place. I drank, but did not see Betty, and so to Charing Cross [Map] stairs, and thence walked to Sir W. Coventry's [aged 40]1, and talked with him, who tells me how he hath been persecuted, and how he is yet well come off in the business of the dividing of the fleete, and the sending of the letter. He expects next to be troubled about the business of bad officers in the fleete, wherein he will bid them name whom they call bad, and he will justify himself, having never disposed of any but by the Admiral's liking. And he is able to give an account of all them, how they come recommended, and more will be found to have been placed by the Prince and Duke of Albemarle [aged 59] than by the Duke of York [aged 34] during the war, and as no bad instance of the badness of officers he and I did look over the list of commanders, and found that we could presently recollect thirty-seven commanders that have been killed in actuall service this war. He tells me that Sir Fr. Hollis [aged 25] is the main man that hath persecuted him hitherto, in the business of dividing the fleete, saying vainly that the want of that letter to the Prince hath given him that, that he shall remember it by to his grave, meaning the loss of his arme; when, God knows! he is as idle and insignificant a fellow as ever come into the fleete. He tells me that in discourse on Saturday he did repeat Sir Rob. Howard's [aged 42] words about rowling out of counsellors, that for his part he neither cared who they rowled in, nor who they rowled out, by which the word is become a word of use in the House, the rowling out of officers. I will remember what, in mirth, he said to me this morning, when upon this discourse he said, if ever there was another Dutch war, they should not find a Secretary; "Nor", said I, "a Clerk of the Acts, for I see the reward of it; and, thanked God! I have enough of my own to buy me a good book and a good fiddle, and I have a good wife";-"Why", says he, "I have enough to buy me a good book, and shall not need a fiddle, because I have never a one of your good wives". I understand by him that we are likely to have our business of tickets voted a miscarriage, but (he) cannot tell me what that will signify more than that he thinks they will report them to the King [aged 37] and there leave them, but I doubt they will do more.
Note 1. Sir William Coventry's love of money is said by Sir John Denham [aged 53] to have influenced him in promoting naval officers, who paid him for their commissions. "Then Painter! draw cerulian Coventry Keeper, or rather Chancellor o' th' sea And more exactly to express his hue, Use nothing but ultra-mariuish blue. To pay his fees, the silver Trumpet spends, And boatswain's whistle for his place depends. Pilots in vain repeat their compass o'er, Until of him they learn that one point more The constant magnet to the pole doth hold, Steel to the magnet, Coventry to gold. Muscovy sells us pitch, and hemp, and tar; Iron and copper, Sweden; Munster, war; Ashley, prize; Warwick, custom; Cart'ret, pay; But Coventry doth sell the fleet away". B.
John Evelyn's Diary. 18th February 1678. My Lord Treasurer [aged 45] sent for me to accompany him to Wimbledon, which he had lately purchased of the Earl of Bristol [aged 44]; so breaking fast with him privately in his chamber, I accompanied him with two of his daughters, my Lord Conway [aged 55], and Sir Bernard Gascoyne [aged 64]; and, having surveyed his gardens and alterations, returned late at night.
On 18th February 1679 William Courtenay 5th Earl Devon [aged 50] was elected MP Devon.
On 18th February 1680 John Ernest Saxe Coburg Saalfeld IV Duke Saxe Coburg Saalfeld [aged 21] and Sophie Hedwig Saxe Merseburg Duchess Saxe Coburg Saalfeld were married at Merseburg, Saxony-Anhalt. She by marriage Duchess Saxe Coburg Saalfeld. She the daughter of Christian Saxe Merseburg 1st Duke Saxe Merseburg. He the son of Ernest "The Pious" Saxe Gotha I Duke Saxe Gotha and Elisabeth Sophie Saxe Altenburg Duchess Saxe Gotha [aged 60].
On 18th February 1692 Philippe Bourbon II Duke Orléans [aged 17] and Françoise Marie Bourbon Duchess Orléans [aged 15] were married at Palace of Versailles, Versailles. She by marriage Duchess Orléans. She the illegitmate daughter of Louis "Sun King" XIV King France [aged 53] and Françoise Athénaïs Marquise Montespan [aged 51]. He the son of Philip Bourbon I Duke Orléans [aged 51] and Elizabeth Charlotte Palatinate Simmern Duchess Orléans [aged 39]. They were first cousins. He a great x 2 grandson of King James I of England and Ireland and VI of Scotland.
On 12th February 1712 Maria Adelaide Savoy [aged 26] died of measles at Versailles.
On 18th February 1712 Louis Bourbon Duke Burgundy [aged 29] died of measles contracted when nursing his wife Maria Adelaide Savoy who had died six days previously.
On 8th March 1712, their eldest son, heir to the throne, Louis Bourbon Duke Brittany [aged 5] died of measles.
The heir to the French throne their only remaining son Louis [aged 1], aged two, great-grandson of the reigning monarch Louis "Sun King" XIV King France [aged 73] who succeeded his great-grandfather three years later in 1715.
On 18th February 1751 Adolf Ulrik Wertmüller was born.
On 18th February 1755 James Hamilton 7th Duke Hamilton 4th Duke Brandon was born to James Hamilton 6th Duke Hamilton 3rd Duke Brandon [aged 30] and Elizabeth Gunning Duchess Hamilton and Argyll [aged 21] at Holyrood Palace, Holyrood.
On 18th February 1775 Thomas Girtin was born.
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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On 18th February 1790 Duchess Elisabeth of Württemberg [aged 22] died in childbirth.
On 18th February 1802 Adolphus Fitz-Clarence was born illegitimately to King William IV of the United Kingdom [aged 36] and Dorothea Bland aka "Mrs Jordan" [aged 40].
On 18th February 1808 James Thomas Loraine [aged 54] died. He was buried at St Wilfrid's Church, Kirkharle [Map].
James Thomas Loraine: On 1st December 1753 he was born to Charles Loraine 3rd Baronet and Dorothy Myloyt. He was baptised on 14th April 1813 at St Wilfrid's Church, Kirkharle [Map].
Minutes of the Society of Antiquaries. 18th February 1819. Mr Kirk Patrick brought the seals of all of the Bishops of Norwich curiously drawn by himself from the originals which he designs for the Press.
Mr Vertue was ordered to print off 100 more of Rich: II, and 100 more of the Lamp; and he is desired to add the Inscription according to the Copy delivered to him if Mr Director approves of it.
On 18th February 1843 George V King Hanover [aged 23] and Marie Saxe Altenburg Queen Consort Hanover were married. He the son of Ernest Augustus King Hanover [aged 71] and Frederica Mecklenburg Strelitz Queen Consort Hanover.
On 18th February 1856 Henry Charles Howard 13th Duke of Norfolk [aged 64] died. His son Henry [aged 41] succeeded 14th Duke Norfolk, 25th or 32nd Earl Arundel, 15th Earl Surrey, 12th Earl Norfolk, 22nd Baron Maltravers, 22nd Baron Arundel.
On 16th October 1859 John Fane 11th Earl of Westmoreland [aged 75] died. His son Francis [aged 33] succeeded 12th Earl of Westmoreland. Adelaide Ida Curzon Howe Countess of Westmoreland [aged 24] by marriage Countess of Westmoreland.
On 18th February 1879 Priscilla Anne Wellesley-Pole Countess of Westmoreland [aged 85] died. Both were buried at the Church of St Leonard, Apethorpe [Map].
John Fane 11th Earl of Westmoreland: On 2nd February 1784 he was born to John Fane 10th Earl of Westmoreland and Sarah Anne Child Countess of Westmoreland. On 26th June 1811 John Fane 11th Earl of Westmoreland and Priscilla Anne Wellesley-Pole Countess of Westmoreland were married. She the daughter of William Wellesley aka Wellesley-Pole 3rd Earl Mornington and Katherine Forbes Countess Mornington. He the son of John Fane 10th Earl of Westmoreland and Sarah Anne Child Countess of Westmoreland. On 15th December 1841 John Fane 10th Earl of Westmoreland died. His son John succeeded 11th Earl of Westmoreland. Priscilla Anne Wellesley-Pole Countess of Westmoreland by marriage Countess of Westmoreland.
Priscilla Anne Wellesley-Pole Countess of Westmoreland: On 13th March 1793 she was born to William Wellesley aka Wellesley-Pole 3rd Earl Mornington and Katherine Forbes Countess Mornington.
On 18th February 1860 Anders Zorn was born.
On 18th February 1878 a double Royal Wedding took place at Berlin. The brides were second-cousins.
Bernhard Saxe Meiningen III Duke Saxe Meiningen [aged 26] and Charlotte Hohenzollern [aged 17] were married. She the daughter of Frederick III King Prussia [aged 46] and Victoria Empress Germany Queen Consort Prussia [aged 37]. He the son of Georg II Duke of Saxe Meiningen [aged 51]. They were third cousin twice removed. She a granddaughter of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom.
Frederick Augustus II Grand Duke of Oldenburg [aged 25] and Elisabeth Anna Hohenzollern [aged 21] were married. They were fifth cousins.
The event was attended by King Leopold II of Belgium [aged 42] and his wife Marie Henriette of Austria, and the Prince of Wales [aged 36] and his brother Prince Arthur Windsor 1st Duke Connaught and Strathearn [aged 27].
On 18th February 1940 Francis Egerton 7th Duke Sutherland was born to Cyril Reginald Egerton [aged 34].
On 18th February 1944 Commander John Montagu Granville Waldegrave [aged 38] was killed in action when the Penelope was torpedoed by U-410 while returning from Anzio.
On 18th February 1969 Georgia Powell Duchess of Beaufort was born to Tristram Roger Dymoke Powell [aged 28]. She married 30th April 2018 Henry John Fitzroy 12th Duke of Beaufort, son of David Fitzroy 11th Duke Beaufort and Caroline Jane Thynne 11th Duchess Beaufort.
On 18th February 1238 Henry Otto Hohenstaufen was born to Frederick I King Jerusalem II Holy Roman Emperor [aged 43] and Isabella Plantagenet Holy Roman Empress [aged 24]. He a grandson of King John of England.
On 18th February 1391 Marie Montfort Duchess Alençon was born to John Montfort V Duke Brittany [aged 52] and Joanna of Navarre Queen Consort England [aged 21]. She a great x 3 granddaughter of King Henry III of England. She married 1396 her second cousin twice removed John Valois I Duke Alençon, son of Peter Valois II Count Alençon and Marie Chamaillart Countess Alençon, and had issue.
On 18th February 1516 Queen Mary I of England and Ireland was born to Henry VIII [aged 24] and Catherine of Aragon [aged 30] at Palace of Placentia, Greenwich [Map]. Margaret Bourchier 1st Baroness Bryan [aged 48] was created 1st Baroness Bryan and appointed the child's governess. Catherine York Countess Devon [aged 36] was her godmother. She married 25th July 1554 her first cousin once removed Philip "The Prudent" II King Spain, son of Charles V Holy Roman Emperor and Isabel Aviz Queen Consort Spain.
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 18th February 1520 Carlos Aviz was born to Manuel "Fortunate" I King Portugal [aged 50] and Eleanor of Austria Queen Consort France Queen Consort Portugal [aged 21]. He a great x 4 grandson of King Edward III of England. Coefficient of inbreeding 7.55%. He died aged one in 1521.
On 18th February 1543 Charles "The Great" Lorraine III Duke Lorraine was born to Francis Lorraine I Duke Lorraine [aged 25] and Christina Oldenburg Duchess Lorraine [aged 21]. He married 1559 his fourth cousin Claude Valois Duchess Lorraine and had issue.
On 18th February 1609 Edward Hyde 1st Earl Clarendon was born to Henry Hyde [aged 46] and Mary Langford. He married (1) 1629 Anne Ayloffe (2) 1634 Frances Aylesbury Countess Clarendon, daughter of Thomas Aylesbury 1st Baronet and Anne Denman, and had issue.
On 18th February 1684 Frances Wilhelmina Bentinck Baroness Byron was born to William Bentinck 1st Earl of Portland [aged 34] and Anne Villiers Countess Portland [aged 33]. She married 19th December 1706 her fifth cousin once removed William Byron 4th Baron Byron, son of William Byron 3rd Baron Byron and Elizabeth Chaworth Baroness Byron, and had issue.
On 18th February 1714 John Howe 2nd Baron Chedworth was born to John Howe 1st Baron Chedworth. He married 23rd September 1751 Martha Parker, daughter of Philip Parker 3rd Baronet.
On 18th February 1715 Augustus Berkeley 4th Earl Berkeley was born to James Berkeley 3rd Earl Berkeley [aged 35] and Louisa Lennox Countess Berkeley [aged 20]. He a great grandson of King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland. He married 7th May 1744 Elizabeth Drax Countess Berkeley and Nugent and had issue.
On 18th February 1721 William Hamilton was born to James Hamilton 7th Earl Abercorn [aged 34] and Anne Plumer Countess Abercorn [aged 31].
On 18th February 1724 Robert King 1st Baron Kingsborough was born to Henry King 3rd Baronet [aged 43] and Isabella Wingfield Lady King [aged 41].
On 18th February 1730 John Dormer was born to John Dormer 7th Baron Dormer [aged 38].
On 18th February 1743 John Byng 5th Viscount Torrington was born to George Byng 3rd Viscount Torrington [aged 41]. He married 3rd March 1767 Bridget Forrest Viscountess Byng and had issue.
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.'
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 18th February 1746 John Dyke Acland was born to John Dyke Acland 7th Baronet [aged 23] and Elizabeth Dyke Lady Acland. He married before 13th December 1772 Christian Harriet Fox-Strangways, daughter of Stephen Fox-Strangways 1st Earl of Ilchester and Elizabeth Strangways-Horner Countess Ilchester, and had issue.
On 18th February 1751 Adolf Ulrik Wertmüller was born.
On 18th February 1755 James Hamilton 7th Duke Hamilton 4th Duke Brandon was born to James Hamilton 6th Duke Hamilton 3rd Duke Brandon [aged 30] and Elizabeth Gunning Duchess Hamilton and Argyll [aged 21] at Holyrood Palace, Holyrood.
On 18th February 1755 Charles Cockerell 1st Baronet was born to John Cockerell [aged 41] and Frances Jackson [aged 32]. He married (1) 11th March 1789 Mary Tryphena Blunt, daughter of Charles William Blunt 3rd Baronet and Elizabeth Peers Lady Blunt (2) 13th February 1808 Harriet Rushout, daughter of John Rushout 1st Baron Northwick and Rebecca Bowles, and had issue.
On 18th February 1766 George Evans 4th Baron Carbery was born to George Evans 3rd Baron Carbery [aged 33] and Elizabeth Horton Baroness Carbery. He married 1792 Susan Watson Baroness Carbery.
On 18th February 1775 Thomas Girtin was born.
On 18th February 1802 Adolphus Fitz-Clarence was born illegitimately to King William IV of the United Kingdom [aged 36] and Dorothea Bland aka "Mrs Jordan" [aged 40].
On 18th February 1804 Isaac Lowthian Bell 1st Baronet was born.
On 18th February 1820 Maria Copley Young was born to Robert Herries Spearman Young [aged 37]. She married 4th September 1844 Frederick Vincent 11th Baronet and had issue.
On 18th February 1822 Augusta Finch Countess Dartmouth was born to Heneage Finch 5th Earl Aylesford [aged 35] and Augusta Sophia Greville Countess Aylesford. She married 9th June 1846 her second cousin William Legge 5th Earl Dartmouth, son of William Legge 4th Earl Dartmouth and Frances Charlotte Chetwynd-Talbot Countess Dartmouth, and had issue.
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.'
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 18th February 1825 Caroline Eliza Leigh Baroness Saye and Sele was born to Chandos Leigh 1st Baron Leigh [aged 33]. She married 18th August 1857 her first cousin once removed Frederick Twisleton-Wykeham-Fiennes 10th or 16th Baron Saye and Sele.
On 18th February 1829 William Monson 1st Viscount Oxenbridge was born to William John Monson 6th Baron Monson [aged 32]. He married 7th August 1869 Maria Adelaide Maude Countess Yarborough, daughter of Cornwallis Maude 3rd Viscount Hawarden and Jane Crawfurd Bruce.
On 18th February 1852 Gertrude Emily Pitt-Rivers was born to George Pitt-Rivers 4th Baron Rivers [aged 41] and Susan Georgiana Leveson-Gower Baroness Rivers [aged 42].
On 18th February 1853 John Lister-Kaye 3rd Baronet was born to Lister Lister-Kaye [aged 25] and Caroline Pepys. He married 5th December 1881 Maria de la Natividad "Natica" Yznaga.
On 18th February 1860 Anders Zorn was born.
On 18th February 1883 Doloroes Olga Salusbury-Trelawny Baroness Rendlesham was born to William Lewis Salusbury-Trelawny 10th Baronet [aged 38] and Harriet Jacqueline Buller Lady Salusbury-Trelawny [aged 62]. She married 27th October 1931 Frederick Archibald Charles 6th Baron Rendlesham, son of Frederick Thellusson 5th Baron Rendlesham and Egidia Montgomerie Baroness Rendlesham.
On 18th February 1918 George Byng was born to Arthur Stanley Byng 10th Viscount Torrington [aged 41].
On 18th February 1926 Christopher James 5th Baron Northbourne was born to Walter James 4th Baron Northbourne [aged 30].
On 18th February 1940 Francis Egerton 7th Duke Sutherland was born to Cyril Reginald Egerton [aged 34].
On 18th February 1940 David Watkin Williams-Wynn 11th Baronet was born to Owen Watkin Williams-Wynn 10th Baronet [aged 35].
Annals of the six Kings of England by Nicholas Trivet
Translation of the Annals of the Six Kings of England by that traces the rise and rule of the Angevin aka Plantagenet dynasty from the mid-12th to early 14th century. Written by the Dominican scholar Nicholas Trivet, the work offers a vivid account of English history from the reign of King Stephen through to the death of King Edward I, blending political narrative with moral reflection. Covering the reigns of six monarchs—from Stephen to Edward I—the chronicle explores royal authority, rebellion, war, and the shifting balance between crown, church, and nobility. Trivet provides detailed insight into defining moments such as baronial conflicts, Anglo-French rivalry, and the consolidation of royal power under Edward I, whose reign he describes with particular immediacy. The Annals combines careful year-by-year reporting with thoughtful interpretation, presenting history not merely as a sequence of events but as a moral and political lesson. Ideal for readers interested in medieval history, kingship, and the origins of the English state, this chronicle remains a valuable and accessible window into the turbulent world of the Plantagenet kings.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 18th February 1951 Charles Wrightson 4th Baronet was born to John Garmondsway Wrightson 3rd Baronet [aged 39].
On 18th February 1969 Georgia Powell Duchess of Beaufort was born to Tristram Roger Dymoke Powell [aged 28]. She married 30th April 2018 Henry John Fitzroy 12th Duke of Beaufort, son of David Fitzroy 11th Duke Beaufort and Caroline Jane Thynne 11th Duchess Beaufort.
On 18th February 1413 Thomas Grey of Heton [aged 9] and Isabel York Countess Eu and Essex [aged 4] were married. She the daughter of Richard of Conisbrough 1st Earl Cambridge [aged 27] and Anne Mortimer. They were fourth cousins. He a great x 4 grandson of King Edward I of England. She a great granddaughter of King Edward III of England.
On 18th February 1680 John Ernest Saxe Coburg Saalfeld IV Duke Saxe Coburg Saalfeld [aged 21] and Sophie Hedwig Saxe Merseburg Duchess Saxe Coburg Saalfeld were married at Merseburg, Saxony-Anhalt. She by marriage Duchess Saxe Coburg Saalfeld. She the daughter of Christian Saxe Merseburg 1st Duke Saxe Merseburg. He the son of Ernest "The Pious" Saxe Gotha I Duke Saxe Gotha and Elisabeth Sophie Saxe Altenburg Duchess Saxe Gotha [aged 60].
On 18th February 1692 Philippe Bourbon II Duke Orléans [aged 17] and Françoise Marie Bourbon Duchess Orléans [aged 15] were married at Palace of Versailles, Versailles. She by marriage Duchess Orléans. She the illegitmate daughter of Louis "Sun King" XIV King France [aged 53] and Françoise Athénaïs Marquise Montespan [aged 51]. He the son of Philip Bourbon I Duke Orléans [aged 51] and Elizabeth Charlotte Palatinate Simmern Duchess Orléans [aged 39]. They were first cousins. He a great x 2 grandson of King James I of England and Ireland and VI of Scotland.
On 18th February 1705 Richard Molyneux 5th Viscount Molyneux [aged 25] and Mary Brudenell Viscountess Molyneux [aged 22] were married. They were fifth cousins.
On 18th February 1734 Francis Godolphin 2nd Baron Goldolphin [aged 27] and Barbara Bentinck [aged 24] were married. She the daughter of William Bentinck 1st Earl of Portland and Jane Martha Temple Countess Portland [aged 62].
On 18th February 1768 John Smith 1st Baronet [aged 23] and Elizabeth Curtis Lady Smith were married.
On 18th February 1843 George V King Hanover [aged 23] and Marie Saxe Altenburg Queen Consort Hanover were married. He the son of Ernest Augustus King Hanover [aged 71] and Frederica Mecklenburg Strelitz Queen Consort Hanover.
On 18th February 1868 Frederick Lygon 6th Earl Beauchamp [aged 37] and Emily Annora Charlotte Pierrepont Countess Beauchamp [aged 14] were married. She by marriage Countess Beauchamp. The difference in their ages was 22 years. She the daughter of Sydney William Herbert Pierrepont 3rd Earl Manvers [aged 43]. He the son of Henry Beauchamp Lygon 4th Earl Beauchamp and Susan Caroline Eliot. They were fourth cousin once removed.
Annals of the six Kings of England by Nicholas Trivet
Translation of the Annals of the Six Kings of England by that traces the rise and rule of the Angevin aka Plantagenet dynasty from the mid-12th to early 14th century. Written by the Dominican scholar Nicholas Trivet, the work offers a vivid account of English history from the reign of King Stephen through to the death of King Edward I, blending political narrative with moral reflection. Covering the reigns of six monarchs—from Stephen to Edward I—the chronicle explores royal authority, rebellion, war, and the shifting balance between crown, church, and nobility. Trivet provides detailed insight into defining moments such as baronial conflicts, Anglo-French rivalry, and the consolidation of royal power under Edward I, whose reign he describes with particular immediacy. The Annals combines careful year-by-year reporting with thoughtful interpretation, presenting history not merely as a sequence of events but as a moral and political lesson. Ideal for readers interested in medieval history, kingship, and the origins of the English state, this chronicle remains a valuable and accessible window into the turbulent world of the Plantagenet kings.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 18th February 1868 Frederick Lygon 6th Earl Beauchamp [aged 37] and Mary Catherine Stanhope Countess Beauchamp [aged 24] were married. She by marriage Countess Beauchamp. She the daughter of Philip Stanhope 5th Earl Stanhope [aged 63] and Emily Harriet Countess Stanhope. He the son of Henry Beauchamp Lygon 4th Earl Beauchamp and Susan Caroline Eliot.
On 18th February 1878 a double Royal Wedding took place at Berlin. The brides were second-cousins.
Bernhard Saxe Meiningen III Duke Saxe Meiningen [aged 26] and Charlotte Hohenzollern [aged 17] were married. She the daughter of Frederick III King Prussia [aged 46] and Victoria Empress Germany Queen Consort Prussia [aged 37]. He the son of Georg II Duke of Saxe Meiningen [aged 51]. They were third cousin twice removed. She a granddaughter of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom.
Frederick Augustus II Grand Duke of Oldenburg [aged 25] and Elisabeth Anna Hohenzollern [aged 21] were married. They were fifth cousins.
The event was attended by King Leopold II of Belgium [aged 42] and his wife Marie Henriette of Austria, and the Prince of Wales [aged 36] and his brother Prince Arthur Windsor 1st Duke Connaught and Strathearn [aged 27].
On 18th February 1886 William Henry Hare Hedges-White 4th Earl Bantry [aged 32] and Rosamund Catherine Petre Countess Bantry [aged 28] were married. She by marriage Countess Bantry. He the son of William Henry Hare Hedges-White 3rd Earl Bantry.
On 18th February 675 Colmán of Lindisfarne [aged 70] died at Inishbofin.
On 18th February 1187 Bishop Gilbert Foliot died.
On 18th February 1225 Hugh Bigod 3rd Earl Norfolk [aged 43] died. His son Roger [aged 16] succeeded 4th Earl Norfolk.
On 18th February 1397 Enguerrand de Coucy 1st Earl Bedford 1st Count Soissons [aged 57] died whilst a prisoner following the Battle of Nicopolis without male issue. Earl Bedford extinct. His daughter Marie [aged 30] succeeded Countess Soissons.
On 18th February 1478 William Stourton 2nd Baron Stourton [aged 52] died. He was buried in St Mary's Church, Mere. His son John [aged 24] succeeded 3rd Baron Stourton.
On 18th February 1478 George York 1st Duke of Clarence [aged 28] was drowned in a butt of wine (Malmsey) wine in the Bowyer Tower in the Tower of London [Map]. "in a butt of Malmsey wine" may refer to 1. a butt full of Malmsey wine or 2. a butt that once contained Malmsey wine that was subsequently re-used for another purpose such as washing or bathing.
William Hussey [aged 35] conducted the impeachment of the Duke of Clarence for treason.
Richard, Duke of Gloucester [aged 25] succeeded 2nd Earl Richmond.
The only other person known to have been executed, or ritually killed, by drowning in a butt of wine is Muirchertach mac Muiredaig High King of Ireland (as reported by the Annals of Ulster) in his case at Newgrange Passage Tomb [Map].
On 18th February 1628 Thomas Harries aka Harris 1st Baronet [aged 78] died. Baronet Harris of Tong Castle in Shropshire extinct.
On 18th February 1658 John Villiers 1st Viscount Purbeck [aged 67] died without issue. Viscount Purbeck extinct although Robert Wright aka Villiers aka Danvers [aged 33], illegitimate son of his wife Frances Coke Viscountess Purbeck and Robert Howard attempted to claim the title.
On 12th February 1712 Maria Adelaide Savoy [aged 26] died of measles at Versailles.
On 18th February 1712 Louis Bourbon Duke Burgundy [aged 29] died of measles contracted when nursing his wife Maria Adelaide Savoy who had died six days previously.
On 8th March 1712, their eldest son, heir to the throne, Louis Bourbon Duke Brittany [aged 5] died of measles.
The heir to the French throne their only remaining son Louis [aged 1], aged two, great-grandson of the reigning monarch Louis "Sun King" XIV King France [aged 73] who succeeded his great-grandfather three years later in 1715.
On 18th February 1726 John Molesworth 2nd Viscount Molesworth [aged 47] died. His brother Richard [aged 46] succeeded 3rd Viscount Molesworth of Swords.
On 18th February 1729 Alexander Montgomerie 9th Earl Eglinton [aged 69] died. His son Alexander [aged 6] succeeded 10th Earl Eglinton.
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.'
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 18th February 1791 Frederica Caroline Saxe Coburg Saalfeld Margrave Brandenburg-Ansbach [aged 55] died.
On 18th February 1825 Elizabeth Cope Lady Welby [aged 67] died.
On 18th February 1840 David William Murray 3rd Earl of Mansfield [aged 62] died. His son William [aged 33] succeeded 4th Earl Mansfield in Middlesex, 9th Viscount Stormont.
On 18th February 1853 Bishop John Kaye [aged 69] died at Riseholme Hall, Lincolnshire. He was buried at St Mary's Church, Riseholme.
On 18th February 1856 Henry Charles Howard 13th Duke of Norfolk [aged 64] died. His son Henry [aged 41] succeeded 14th Duke Norfolk, 25th or 32nd Earl Arundel, 15th Earl Surrey, 12th Earl Norfolk, 22nd Baron Maltravers, 22nd Baron Arundel.
On 18th February 1857 Francis Leveson Gower aka Egerton 1st Earl Ellesmere [aged 57] died. His son George [aged 33] succeeded 2nd Earl Ellesmere, 2nd Viscount Brackley. Mary Louisa Campbell Countess Ellesmere [aged 32] by marriage Countess Ellesmere.
On 16th October 1859 John Fane 11th Earl of Westmoreland [aged 75] died. His son Francis [aged 33] succeeded 12th Earl of Westmoreland. Adelaide Ida Curzon Howe Countess of Westmoreland [aged 24] by marriage Countess of Westmoreland.
On 18th February 1879 Priscilla Anne Wellesley-Pole Countess of Westmoreland [aged 85] died. Both were buried at the Church of St Leonard, Apethorpe [Map].
John Fane 11th Earl of Westmoreland: On 2nd February 1784 he was born to John Fane 10th Earl of Westmoreland and Sarah Anne Child Countess of Westmoreland. On 26th June 1811 John Fane 11th Earl of Westmoreland and Priscilla Anne Wellesley-Pole Countess of Westmoreland were married. She the daughter of William Wellesley aka Wellesley-Pole 3rd Earl Mornington and Katherine Forbes Countess Mornington. He the son of John Fane 10th Earl of Westmoreland and Sarah Anne Child Countess of Westmoreland. On 15th December 1841 John Fane 10th Earl of Westmoreland died. His son John succeeded 11th Earl of Westmoreland. Priscilla Anne Wellesley-Pole Countess of Westmoreland by marriage Countess of Westmoreland.
Priscilla Anne Wellesley-Pole Countess of Westmoreland: On 13th March 1793 she was born to William Wellesley aka Wellesley-Pole 3rd Earl Mornington and Katherine Forbes Countess Mornington.
On 18th February 1863 Charles Edward Pepys 2nd Earl of Cottenham [aged 38] died unmarried. His brother William [aged 37] succeeded 3rd Earl of Cottenham, 3rd Viscount Crowhurst of Crowhurst in Surrey, 3rd Baron Cottenham of Cottenham in Cambridgshire, 5th Baronet Pepys of Wimpole Street, 6th Baronet Pepys of Brook Street.
On 18th February 1866 Henry Peyton 3rd Baronet [aged 61] died. His son Algernon [aged 32] succeeded 4th Baronet Peyton of Doddington.
On 18th February 1866 Thomas Hay-Drummond 11th Earl Kinnoull [aged 80] died. His son George [aged 38] succeeded 12th Earl Kinnoull, 5th Baron Hay of Pedwardine in Herefordshire. Emily Blanche Charlotte Somerset Countess Kinnoul [aged 38] by marriage Countess Kinnoull.
On 18th February 1888 William Edmonstone 4th Baronet [aged 78] died. His son Archibald [aged 20] succeeded 5th Baronet Edmonstone of Duntreath in Stirlingshire.
On 18th February 1919 Thomas Dyke Acland 12th Baronet [aged 76] died. His brother Arthur [aged 71] succeeded 13th Baronet Acland of Columb John in Devon. Alice Sophia Cunningham Lady Acland [aged 70] by marriage Lady Acland of Columb John in Devon.
On 18th February 1929 Samuel Morley 1st Baron Hollenden [aged 83] died. His son Geoffrey [aged 44] succeeded 2nd Baron Hollenden of Leigh in Kent.
On 18th February 1949 Geoffrey Twisleton-Wykeham-Fiennes 13th or 19th Baron Saye and Sele [aged 64] died unmarried. His brother Ivo [aged 63] succeeded 14th or 20th Baron Saye and Sele.
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.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 18th February 1951 John Courtown Edward Shelley 6th Baronet [aged 79] died. His brother Percy [aged 78] succeeded 7th Baronet Shelley of Castle Goring in Sussex.
On 18th February 1962 Evelyn Hugh Boscawen 8th Viscount Falmouth [aged 74] died. His son George [aged 42] succeeded 9th Viscount Falmouth, 16th Baron Despencer.
On 18th February 2002 Ela Helen Aline Beaumont Countess Carlisle [aged 76] died.