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 6th February 1891 Thomas Steele was born.
The London Gazette 30122. 8th July 1917. Award of the Victoria Cross.
No. 811 L./Sjt. Thomas Steele (age 26), Sea. Highrs. For most conspicuous bravery and devo tion to duty.
At a critical moment when a strong enemy counter-attack had temporarily regained some of the captured trenches, Sjt. Steele rushed forward and assisted a comrade to carry a machine gun into position. He kept the gun in action till relieved, being mainly instrumental in keeping the remainder of the line intact.
Some hours later another strong attack enabled the enemy to reoccupy a portion of the captured trenches. Again Sjt. Steele showed the greatest bravery, and by personal valour and example was able to rally troops who were wavering. He encouraged them to remain in their trenches and led a number of them forward, thus greatly helping to re establish our line. On this occasion he was severely wounded.
These acts of valour were performed under heavy artillery and rifle fire.
On 11th July 1978 Thomas Steele (age 87) died.
In 2003. a Blue Plaque was unveiled to three 'valiant men of the Borough of Oldham' who received the Victoria Cross: John Hogan, Walter Mills and Thomas Steele.
Oldham Church War Memorial including plaques to three recipients of the Victoria Cross: John Hogan, Walter Mills and Thomas Steele.