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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George Body 1840-1911

Memorial to George Body on nineteen South Bailey, Durham.

Before 7th January 1840 [his father] Josiah Body and [his mother] Mary Snell were married.

On 7th January 1840 George Body was born to Josiah Body and Mary Snell at Cheriton Fitzpayne, Devon.

In 1859 George Body [aged 18] matriculated St John's College, Cambridge University [Map] being awarded BA in 1862, MA in 1876, MA ad eundem in 1884 and DD in 1885.

1860 to 1870. Samuel Alexander Walker [aged 18]. Photograph of George Body [aged 19].

In 1863 George Body [aged 22] was ordained Deacon. In 1864 he was ordained Priest. Thereafter he was appointed to the curacies of St James's Church, Wednesbury, and Christ Church, Wolverhampton.

On 25th September 1864 George Body [aged 24] and Louisa Lewis were married. They had three sons and four daughters.

In 1883 George Body [aged 42] was appointed 'canon-missioner' of Durham by Bishop Joseph Barber Lightfoot [aged 54], and for twenty-eight years carried on fruitful mission work among the Durham miners.

1889. Samuel Alexander Walker [aged 47]. Photograph of George Body [aged 48].

On 5th June 1911 George Body [aged 71] died.