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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Paternal Family Tree: Obertenghi aka Welf
1677 Marriage of William of Orange and Princess Mary Stewart
1682 Sinking of the Gloucester
1683 Marriage of Lady Anne and Prince George
1685 Death and Burial of Charles II
1685 Coronation James II and Mary
On 27th May 1655, her sixteenth birthday, [her father] Alfonso Este IV Duke Modena [aged 20] and [her mother] Laura Martinozzi Duchess Modena [aged 16] were married.
On 5th October 1658 Mary of Modena Queen Consort England Scotland and Ireland was born to [her father] Alfonso Este IV Duke Modena [aged 23] and [her mother] Laura Martinozzi Duchess Modena [aged 19].
On 3rd September 1660 [her future husband] James, Duke of York [aged 26] and Anne Hyde [aged 23] were married in secret. She by marriage Duchess York. She gave birth to their son Charles Stewart seven weeks later. She the daughter of Edward Hyde 1st Earl Clarendon [aged 51] and Frances Aylesbury Countess Clarendon [aged 43]. He the son of King Charles I of England, Scotland and Ireland and Henrietta Maria Bourbon Queen Consort England [aged 50].
On 16th July 1662 [her father] Alfonso Este IV Duke Modena [aged 27] died.
In 1665 John Denham [aged 50] and Margaret Brooke Lady Denham [aged 25] were married. She, thereafter, conducted a very public affair with the future King James II [aged 31]. To her husband's mortification, she insisted on being acknowledged publicly as a Royal mistress, saying that she would not, unlike her predecessor Goditha Price "go up and down the back stairs". The difference in their ages was 25 years.
On 3rd June 1665 at the Battle of Lowestoft an English fleet commanded by [her future husband] King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 31], Prince Rupert Palatinate Simmern 1st Duke Cumberland [aged 45] and Edward Montagu 1st Earl Sandwich [aged 39] defeated a Dutch Fleet.
Richard Boyle was killed.
Charles Maccarthy Viscount Muskerry was killed.
Charles Berkeley 1st Earl Falmouth [aged 35] was killed by a cannonball aboard the Royal Charles. Earl Falmouth extinct, Baron Botetourt Langport in Somerset extinct. His father Charles [aged 65] succeeded 2nd Viscount Fitzhardinge of Berehaven in Kerry. Penelope Godolphin Viscountess Fitzhardinge by marriage Viscountess Fitzhardinge of Berehaven in Kerry. Possibly the only occasion when a father has succeeded his son.
Charles Weston 3rd Earl of Portland [deceased] was killed by a cannon shot. On 13th June 1665 His uncle Thomas [aged 55] succeeded 4th Earl of Portland, 4th Baron Weston of Nayland in Suffolk.
Thomas Allin 1st Baronet [aged 53] was present.
Admiral Jeremy Smith commanded the Mary.
Captain George Batts fought. He was assigned to Sir George Ayscue's [aged 49] division in the Blue Squadron.
James Ley 3rd Earl Marlborough [aged 47] was killed at the Battle of Lowestoft commanding Old James attempting to recover a captured ship. His half brother William [aged 53] succeeded 4th Earl Marlborough.
On 3rd December 1666 James Stewart 1st Duke Cambridge [aged 3] was created 1st Duke Cambridge by [her future husband] James, Duke of York [aged 33]. See Samuel Pepys' Diary 1666 December 06.
Those present included [her future brother-in-law] King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 36], James, Duke of York, Prince Rupert Palatinate Simmern 1st Duke Cumberland [aged 46], William Cecil 2nd Earl Salisbury [aged 75], George Monck 1st Duke Albemarle [aged 57], Thomas Howard 1st Earl Berkshire [aged 79], Charles Stewart 6th Duke Lennox 3rd Duke Richmond [aged 27], Edward Montagu 2nd Earl Manchester [aged 64], James Scott 1st Duke Monmouth 1st Duke Buccleuch [aged 17].
On 6th January 1667 Margaret Brooke Lady Denham [aged 27] died. She was rumoured to have been poisoned by her husband John Denham [aged 52] by giving her a poisoned cup of chocolate. In any case rumour named several other possible poisoners, including her former lover James [aged 33], his wife Anne Hyde [aged 29] and his sister-in-law, Lady Rochester [aged 21].
On 20th September 1673 James, Duke of York [aged 39] and Mary of Modena Queen Consort England Scotland and Ireland [aged 14] were married. The difference in their ages was 24 years. He the son of King Charles I of England, Scotland and Ireland and Henrietta Maria Bourbon Queen Consort England.
John Evelyn's Diary. 5th November 1673. This night the youths of the city burned the Pope in effigy, after they had made procession with it in great triumph, they being displeased at the [her husband] Duke [aged 40] for altering his religion and marrying an Italian lady [aged 15].
Adam Murimuth's Continuation and Robert of Avesbury’s 'The Wonderful Deeds of King Edward III'
This volume brings together two of the most important contemporary chronicles for the reign of Edward III and the opening phases of the Hundred Years’ War. Written in Latin by English clerical observers, these texts provide a vivid and authoritative window into the political, diplomatic, and military history of fourteenth-century England and its continental ambitions. Adam Murimuth Continuatio's Chronicarum continues an earlier chronicle into the mid-fourteenth century, offering concise but valuable notices on royal policy, foreign relations, and ecclesiastical affairs. Its annalistic structure makes it especially useful for establishing chronology and tracing the development of events year by year. Complementing it, Robert of Avesbury’s De gestis mirabilibus regis Edwardi tertii is a rich documentary chronicle preserving letters, treaties, and official records alongside narrative passages. It is an indispensable source for understanding Edward III’s claim to the French crown, the conduct of war, and the mechanisms of medieval diplomacy. Together, these works offer scholars, students, and enthusiasts a reliable and unembellished account of a transformative period in English and European history. Essential for anyone interested in medieval chronicles, the Hundred Years’ War, or the reign of Edward III.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
John Evelyn's Diary. 30th November 1673. On St. Andrew's day I first saw the new Duchess of York [aged 15], and the Duchess of Modena, her mother [aged 34].
In 1674 Edward Lee 1st Earl Lichfield [aged 10] was created 1st Earl Lichfield as a consequence of his being betrothed to Charlotte Fitzroy Countess Lichfield [aged 9], a natural daughter of [her brother-in-law] King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 43].
John Evelyn's Diary. 22nd July 1674. I went to Windsor, Berkshire [Map] with my wife [aged 39] and son [aged 19] to see my daughter Mary [aged 9], who was there with my Lady Tuke and to do my duty to his [her brother-in-law] Majesty [aged 44]. Next day, to a great entertainment at Sir Robert Holmes's [aged 52] at Cranbourne Lodge, Windsor, in the Forest; there were his Majesty, the Queen [aged 35], [her husband] Duke [aged 40], Duchess [aged 15], and all the Court. I returned in the evening with Sir Joseph Williamson [aged 40], now declared Secretary of State. He was son of a poor clergyman somewhere in Cumberland, brought up at Queen's College, Oxford, of which he came to be a fellow; then traveled with ... and returning when the King was restored, was received as a clerk under Mr. Secretary Nicholas. Sir Henry Bennett [aged 56] (now Lord Arlington) succeeding, Williamson is transferred to him, who loving his ease more than business (though sufficiently able had he applied himself to it) remitted all to his man Williamson; and, in a short time, let him so into the secret of affairs, that (as his Lordship himself told me) there was a kind of necessity to advance him; and so, by his subtlety, dexterity, and insinuation, he got now to be principal Secretary; absolutely Lord Arlington's creature, and ungrateful enough. It has been the fate of this obliging favorite to advance those who soon forgot their original. Sir Joseph was a musician, could play at Jeu de Goblets, exceedingly formal, a severe master to his servants, but so inward with my Lord O'Brien [aged 32], that after a few months of that gentleman's death, he married his widow [aged 34], who, being sister and heir of the Duke of Richmond, brought him a noble fortune. It was thought they lived not so kindly after marriage as they did before. She was much censured for marrying so meanly, being herself allied to the Royal family.
On 1st October 1674 George Fitzroy 1st Duke Northumberland [aged 8] was created 1st Earl of Northumberland, 1st Viscount Falmouth, 1st Baron Pontefract by [her brother-in-law] King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 44].
On 10th January 1675 [her daughter] Catherine Laura Stewart was born to [her husband] James Duke of York [aged 41] and Mary of Modena Duchess of York [aged 16]. She died aged less than one years old.
On 9th August 1675 Charles Lennox 1st Duke Richmond [aged 3] was created 1st Duke Richmond, 1st Earl March, 1st Baron Settrington by [her brother-in-law] King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 45].
On 11th September 1675 Henry Fitzroy 1st Duke Grafton [aged 11] was created 1st Duke Grafton by [her brother-in-law] King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 45]. Isabella Bennet Duchess Grafton [aged 7] by marriage Duchess Grafton.
On 3rd October 1675 [her daughter] Catherine Laura Stewart died of convulsions.
On 28th August 1676 [her daughter] Isabel Stewart was born to [her husband] James Duke of York [aged 42] and Mary of Modena Duchess of York [aged 17]. She died aged four in 1681.
John Evelyn's Diary. 4th December 1676. I saw the great ball danced by all the gallants and ladies at the Duchess of York's [aged 18].
Adam Murimuth's Continuation and Robert of Avesbury’s 'The Wonderful Deeds of King Edward III'
This volume brings together two of the most important contemporary chronicles for the reign of Edward III and the opening phases of the Hundred Years’ War. Written in Latin by English clerical observers, these texts provide a vivid and authoritative window into the political, diplomatic, and military history of fourteenth-century England and its continental ambitions. Adam Murimuth Continuatio's Chronicarum continues an earlier chronicle into the mid-fourteenth century, offering concise but valuable notices on royal policy, foreign relations, and ecclesiastical affairs. Its annalistic structure makes it especially useful for establishing chronology and tracing the development of events year by year. Complementing it, Robert of Avesbury’s De gestis mirabilibus regis Edwardi tertii is a rich documentary chronicle preserving letters, treaties, and official records alongside narrative passages. It is an indispensable source for understanding Edward III’s claim to the French crown, the conduct of war, and the mechanisms of medieval diplomacy. Together, these works offer scholars, students, and enthusiasts a reliable and unembellished account of a transformative period in English and European history. Essential for anyone interested in medieval chronicles, the Hundred Years’ War, or the reign of Edward III.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 21st December 1676 Charles Beauclerk 1st Duke St Albans [aged 6] was created 1st Earl Burford, 1st Baron Heddington by [her brother-in-law] King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 46].
On 4th November 1677 King William III of England, Scotland and Ireland [aged 27] and [her step-daughter] Mary Stewart II Queen England Scotland and Ireland [aged 15] were married. She by marriage Princess Orange. She the daughter of [her husband] King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 44] and Anne Hyde Duchess of York. They were first cousins. He a grandson of King Charles I of England, Scotland and Ireland.
On 7th November 1677 [her son] Charles Stewart was born to [her husband] James Duke of York [aged 44] and Mary of Modena Duchess of York [aged 19]. He lived for five weeks. He died aged less than one years old.
On 12th December 1677 [her son] Charles Stewart died of smallpox.
In 1679 John Robartes 1st Earl Radnor [aged 73] was created 1st Earl Radnor, 1st Viscount Bodmin by [her brother-in-law] King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 48] in reward for having supported Charles' brother James II King England, Scotland and Ireland 1633-1701's future accession. Letitia Isabella Smythe Countess Radnor [aged 49] by marriage Countess Radnor.
Around 1680 Simon Pietersz Verelst [aged 36]. Portrait of Mary of Modena Queen Consort England Scotland and Ireland [aged 21].
On 4th March 1681 [her daughter] Isabel Stewart [aged 4] died.
On 17th November 1681 Jean Chardin [aged 38] was knighted at Whitehall Palace [Map] by [her brother-in-law] King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 51]. The same day Jean Chardin and Esther Lardinière Peigné were married.
On 3rd May 1682 the [her husband] Duke of York [aged 48] and his retinue including John Churchill 1st Duke of Marlborough [aged 31] and George Legge 1st Baron Dartmouth [aged 35] were seen off on their journey north by King Charles I of England, Scotland and Ireland from Margate Roads, Kent [Map]. James was possibly travelling to Edinburgh to collect his six months pregnant wife Mary of Modena [aged 23] to ensure their child was born in England.
John Evelyn's Diary. 25th May 1682. The [her husband] Duke [aged 48] and King James II of England Scotland and Ireland and Duchess of York [aged 23] were just now come to London, after his escape and shipwreck, as he went by sea for Scotland.
On 16th August 1682 [her daughter] Charlotte Maria was born to [her husband] James Duke of York [aged 48] and Mary of Modena Duchess of York [aged 23]. He lived for two months. She died aged less than one years old.
On 16th October 1682 [her daughter] Charlotte Maria died.
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 2nd December 1682 Henry Somerset 1st Duke Beaufort [aged 53] was created 1st Duke Beaufort by [her brother-in-law] King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 52]. Mary Capell Duchess Beaufort [aged 52] by marriage Duchess Beaufort.
On 6th April 1683 George Fitzroy 1st Duke Northumberland [aged 17] was created 1st Duke Northumberland by [her brother-in-law] King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 52].
On 28th July 1683 Prince George of Denmark 1st Duke Cumberland [aged 30] and [her step-daughter] Queen Anne of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 18] were married at Chapel Royal, St James's Palace. She the daughter of [her husband] King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 49] and Anne Hyde Duchess of York. He the son of Frederick III King of Denmark and Sophie Amalie Hanover Queen Consort Denmark [aged 55]. They were second cousin once removed.
On 29th November 1683 Henry Waldegrave 1st Baron Waldegrave [aged 22] and [her step-daughter] Henrietta Fitzjames Countess Newcastle [aged 16] were married. She the daughter of [her husband] King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 50] and Anne Hyde Duchess of York.
Around 1684 Charles Waldegrave 3rd Baronet [aged 58] died. Around 1684 His son Henry [aged 23] succeeded 4th Baronet Waldegrave of Hever Castle. [her step-daughter] Henrietta Fitzjames Countess Newcastle [aged 17] by marriage Lady Waldegrave of Hever Castle.
On 5th January 1684 Charles Beauclerk 1st Duke St Albans [aged 13] was created 1st Duke St Albans by [her brother-in-law] King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 53].
Around 1685 Willem Wissing [aged 29]. Portrait of Mary of Modena Queen Consort England Scotland and Ireland [aged 26].
On 6th February 1685 [her brother-in-law] King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 54] died around midday the morning at Whitehall Palace [Map] attended by Charles Scarburgh [aged 69]. His brother [her husband] James [aged 51] succeeded II King England Scotland and Ireland. Duke York merged with the Crown. Mary of Modena Queen Consort England Scotland and Ireland [aged 26] by marriage Queen Consort England Scotland and Ireland. His brother King James II of England Scotland and Ireland, William Chiffinch [aged 83], Richard Mason [aged 52] and Archbishop William Sancroft [aged 68] were present.
The time of his death reported differtently by different contemporary sources: John Evelyn's Diary 'at halfe an houre after eleven in the morning', the Anonymous Letter to Reverend Roper: 'Yesterday noon', Ambassador Barillon's Account: 'and at noon, he died without any struggle or convulsion.' and Charl;es Scarburgh's Manuscript: 'He expired on February the Sixth soon after noon'.
According to Mark Bryant's book "Private Lives: Curious Facts about the Famous and Infamous' King Charles is supposed to have said the much repested phrase: "I am sorry, gentlemen, for being such a time a-dying." This doesn't appear to come from a contemporary source. Macaulay in his 'History of England', writing much later has "He apologised to those who had stood round him all night for the trouble which he had caused. He had been, he said, a most unconscionable time dying; but he hoped that they would excuse it." Perhaps the nearest we can find in a contemporary source is the Anonymous Letter to Reverend Roper: 'and beg the pardon of the standers by, and those that were employed about him, that he gave them so much trouble: that he hoped the work was almost over...'
John Evelyn's Diary. 17th February 1685. This morning his [her husband] Ma* [aged 51] restor'd the staffe and key to Lord Arlington [aged 67], Chamberlaine; to Mr. Savell [aged 43], Vice-chamberlaine; to Lords Newport [aged 64] and Malnard [aged 62], Treasurer and Comptroler of the Household; Lord Godolphin [aged 39] made Chamberlaine to ye Queene [aged 26]; Lord Peterborow [aged 63] Groome of ye Stole in place of the Earle of Bath [aged 56]; the Treasurer's staff to the Earle of Rochester [aged 42]; and his brother the Earle of Clarendon Lord Privie Seale in place of the Marquis of Halifax [aged 51], who was made President of the Council; the Secretarys of State remaining as before.
On 23rd April 1685 [her husband] King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 51] was crowned II King England Scotland and Ireland by Archbishop William Sancroft [aged 68]. Mary of Modena Queen Consort England Scotland and Ireland [aged 26] crowned Queen Consort England Scotland and Ireland.
Bishop Francis Turner [aged 47] preached the sermon.
John Ashburnham 1st Baron Ashburnham [aged 29] carried the canopy being one of the Barons of the Cinque Ports at Westminster Abbey [Map].
Henry Fitzroy 1st Duke Grafton [aged 21] was appointed Constable of England.
John Evelyn's Diary. 23rd April 1685. Was the Coronation of the [her husband] King [aged 51] and Queene [aged 26]. The solemnity was magnificent, as is set forth in print. The Bp. of Ely [aged 47] preach'd; but, to the greate sorrow of the people, no Sacrament, as ought to have ben. However the [her brother-in-law] King begins his reigne with greate expectations, and hopes of much reformation as to the late vices and prophanenesse both of Court and Country. Having ben present at the late King's Coronation, I was not ambitious of seeing this ceremonie.
John Evelyn's Diary. 21st May 1685. I din'd at my Lord Privy Seale's with Sr Wm Dugdale [aged 79], Garter King at Armes, author of the Monasticon and other learned workes: he told me he was 82 yeares of age, and had his sight and memory perfect. There was shewn a draught of ye exact shape and dimensions of the Crowne the Queene [aged 26] had been crown'd withall, together with the Jewells and pearles; their weight and value, wch amounted to £100,658 sterling, attested at the foote of the paper by the jeweller and goldsmith who sett them.
John Evelyn's Diary. 22nd May 1685. In the morning I went with a French gentleman, and my Lord Privy Seale, to the House of Lords, where we were plac'd by his lordship next the Bar, just below ye Bishops, very commodiously both for hearing and seeing. After a short space came in ye Queene [aged 26] and [her step-daughter] Princesse of Denmark [aged 20], and stood next above the Archbishops, at the side of the House on the right hand of the throne. In the interim divers of the Lords, who had not finish'd before, tooke the Test and usual Oathes, so that her Ma*, the Spanish and other Ambassadors, who stood behind the throne, heard the Pope and worship of the Virgin Mary, &c. renounc'd very decently, as likewise the prayers which follow'd, standing all the while. Then came in the [her husband] King [aged 51], the Crowne on his head, and being seated, the Commons were introduced, and the House being full, he drew forth a paper containing his speech, which he read distinctly enough, to this effect: "That he resolv'd to call a Parliament from the moment of his brother's decease, as the best meanes to settle all the concernes of the Nation, so as to be most easy and happy to himselfe and his subjects; that he would confirme whatever he had said in his declaration at the first Council concerning his opinion of the principles of the Church of England, for their loyaltie, and would defend and support it, and preserve its government as by law now establish'd; that, as he would invade no man's property, so he would never depart from his owne prerogative; and as he had ventur'd his life in defence of the Nation, so he would proceede to do still; that, having given this assurance of his care of our Religion (his word was your Religion) and Property (wch he had not said by chance but solemnly), so he doubted not of suitable returnes of his subjects duty and kindnesse, especialy as to settling his Revenue for life, for yte many weighty necessities of go vernment, weh he would not suffer to be precarious; that some might possibly suggest that it were better to feede and supply him from time to time only, out of their inclination to frequent Parliaments, but that that would be a very improper method to take with him, since the best way to engage him to meete oftener would be always to use him well, and therefore he expected their compliance speedily, that this Session being but short, they might meet againe to satisfaction". At every period of this the House gave loud shouts. Then he acquainted them with that morning's news of Argyle's [aged 56] being landed in the West High lands of Scotland from Holland, and the treasonous declaration he had published, which he would communicate to them, and that he should take the best care he could it should meete with the reward It deserv'd, not questioning the Parliament's zeale and readinesse to assist him as he desir'd; at which there follow'd another Vive le Roi, and so his Ma* retlr'd.
John Evelyn's Diary. 4th June 1685. Then the [her husband] King [aged 51] rose, the Lords accompanying him to his bed-chamber, where, whilst he repos'd himselfe, tired indeede as he was with griefe and watching, they return'd againe Into the Council-chamber to take order for the proclaiming his Ma*, which (after some debate) they consented should be in the very forme his grandfather K. James I. was, after ye death of Queene Elizabeth; as likewise that the Lords, &c. should proceede in their coaches thro' the Citty for the more solemnity of it. Upon this was I, and severall other Gentlemen waiting in the Privy-gallerie, admitted into ye Council-chamber to be witnesse of what was resolv'd on. Thence with the Lords, the Lord Marshall and Heraulds, and other Crowne Officers being ready, we first went to White-hall gate, where the Lords stood on foote bare-headed, whilst the Herauld proclaim'd his [her brother-in-law] Majesty's title to the Imperial Crowne and Succession according to ye forme, the trumpets and kettle-drums having first sounded 3 times, which ended with the people's acclamations. Then a Herauld call'd the Lords' coaches according to rank, myselfe accompanying the solemnity in my Lord Cornwallis's [aged 29] coach, first to Temple Barr, where the Lord Maior and his brethren met us on horseback, in all theire formalities, and proclaim'd the King; hence to the Exchange in Cornhill, and so we return'd in the order we set forth. Being come to Whitehall, we all went and kiss'd the King and Queenes [aged 26] hands. He had ben on ye bed, but was now risen and in his undresse. The [her step-daughter] Queene [aged 23] was in bed in her appartment, but put forth her hand, seeming to be much afflicted, as I believe she was, having deported herselfe so decently upon all occasions since she came into England, which made her universally belov'd. Thus concluded this sad and not joyfull day.
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.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
John Evelyn's Diary. 6th September 1685. Sunday. I went to prayer in the Chapell, and heard Dr. Standish. The second sermon was preach'd by Dr. Creighton [aged 46], on 1 Thess. 4, 11, persuading to unity and peace, and to be mindfull of our owne businesse, according to the advise of the Apostle. Then I went to heare a Frenchman who preached before the [her husband] King [aged 51] and Queene [aged 26] in that splendid Chapell [Map] next St. George's Hall. Their Maties going to masse, I withdrew to consider the stupendous painting of ye Hall, which, both for the art and invention, deserve the inscription in honour of the painter, Signior Verrio [aged 49]. The history is Edward the 3rd receiving the Black Prince, coming towards him in a Roman triumph. The whole roofe is the history of St. George. The throne, the carvings, &e. are incomparable, and I think equal to any, and in many circumstances exceeding any, I have seene abroad.
John Evelyn's Diary. 15th October 1685. Being the [her husband] King's [aged 52] birthday, there was a solemne ball at Court, and before it musiq of instruments and voices. At the musiq I happen'd by accident to stand the very next to the Queene [aged 27] and the King, who talk'd with me about the musick.
John Evelyn's Diary. 18th October 1685. The [her husband] King [aged 52] was now building all that range from East to West by ye Court and Garden to the streete, and making a new Chapel for ye Queene [aged 27], whose lodgings were to be in this new building, as also a new Council chamber and offices next ye South end of ye Banquetting house [Map]. I returned home next morning to London.
In 1686 Bishop Thomas Cartwright [aged 52] was appointed Bishop of Chester by [her husband] King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 52].
In 1686 Henry Waldegrave 1st Baron Waldegrave [aged 25] was created 1st Baron Waldegrave Chewton Somerset by [her husband] King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 52] three years after Henry Waldegrave 1st Baron Waldegrave married the King's illegitimate daughter [her step-daughter] Henrietta Fitzjames Countess Newcastle [aged 19]. Henrietta Fitzjames Countess Newcastle by marriage Baroness Waldegrave Chewton Somerset.
In 1686 Catherine Sedley Countess Dorchester and Portmore [aged 28] was created 1st Countess Dorchester for life by [her husband] King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 52] for services as his mistress. Her father Charles Sedley 5th Baronet [aged 46] quipped "As the king has made my daughter a countess, the least I can do, in common gratitude, is to assist in making his Majesty's [her step-daughter] daughter [aged 23] a queen".
John Evelyn's Diary. 6th January 1686. Passed the Privie Seale, amongst others, the creation of Mrs. Sedley J (concubine to) Countesse of Dorchester [aged 28], which the Queene took very grievously [aged 27], so as for two dinners, standing neere her I observed she hardly eate one morsel, nor spake one word to the [her husband] King [aged 52], or to any about her, tho' at other times she us'd to be extreamly pleasant, full of discourse and good humour. The Roman Catholics were also very angry, because they had so long valu'd the sanctity of their religion and proselytes. Dryden [aged 54] the famous playwriter, and his two sonns, and Mrs. Nelly [aged 35] (Misse to ye late) were said to go to masse; such proselytes were no greate losse to the church. This night was burnt to the ground my Lord Mountague's palace in Bloomsbury, than wch for painting and furniture there was nothing more glorious in England. This happen'd by the negligence of a servant, airing, as they call it, some of the goods by the fire in a moist season; indeede so wet and mild a winter had scarce ben seene in man's memory. At this Seale there also pass'd the creation of Sr H. Walgrave [aged 25] to be a Peere. He had married one of the [her step-daughter] King's natural daughters [aged 19] by Mrs. Churchill. These two Seales my brother Commissioners pass'd in the morning before I came to towne, at. wch I was not displeas'd. We likewise pass'd Privy Seales for 5.2/6,000 upon severall accounts, pensions, guards, wardrobes, pri vie purse, &c. besides divers pardons, and one more wch I must not forget (and wch by Providence I was not present at) one Mr. Lytcott to be Secretary to the Ambassador to Rome. We being three Commissioners, any two were a quorum.
John Evelyn's Diary. 29th December 1686. I went to hear the music of the Italians in the new chapel, now first opened publicly at Whitehall [Map] for the Popish Service. Nothing can be finer than the magnificent marble work and architecture at the end, where are four statues, representing St. John, St. Peter, St. Paul, and the Church, in white marble, the work of Mr. Gibbons [aged 38], with all the carving and Pillars of exquisite art and great cost. The altar piece is the Salutation; the volto in fresco, the Assumption of the blessed Virgin, according to their tradition, with our blessed Savior, and a world of figures painted by Verrio. The throne where the [her husband] King [aged 53] and Queen [aged 28] sit is very glorious, in a closet above, just opposite to the altar. Here we saw the Bishop in his mitre and rich copes, with six or seven Jesuits and others in rich copes, sumptuously habited, often taking off and Putting on the Bishop's mitre, who sat in a chair with arms pontifically, was adored and censed by three Jesuits in their copes; then he went to the altar and made divers cringes, then censing the images and glorious tabernacle placed on the altar, and now and then changing place: the crosier, which was of silver, was put into his hand with a world of mysterious ceremony, the music playing, with singing. I could not have believed I should ever have seen such things in the [her brother-in-law] King of England's palace, after it had pleased God to enlighten this nation; but our great sin has, for the present, eclipsed the blessing, which I hope he will in mercy and his good time restore to its purity.
Around 1687 Thomas Wentworth 1st Earl Strafford [aged 14] was appointed Page of Honour to Mary of Modena Queen Consort England Scotland and Ireland [aged 28].
In 1687 Studio of Peter Lely. Portrait of Mary of Modena Queen Consort England Scotland and Ireland [aged 28].
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.
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In 1687 [her illegitimate step-son] James Fitzjames 1st Duke Berwick [aged 16] was created 1st Duke Berwick by [her husband] King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 53].
John Evelyn's Diary. 24th January 1687. I saw the Queen's [aged 28] new apartment at Whitehall [Map], with her new bed, the embroidery of which cost £3,000. The carving about the chimney piece, by Gibbons [aged 38], is incomparable.
On 19th July 1687 [her mother] Laura Martinozzi Duchess Modena [aged 48] died.
John Evelyn's Diary. 29th October 1687. An Anabaptist, a very odd ignorant person, a mechanic, I think, was Lord Mayor. The [her husband] King [aged 54] and Queen [aged 29], and Dadi, the Pope's Nuncio, invited to a feast at Guildhall. A strange turn of affairs, that those who scandalized the Church of England as favorers of Popery, should publicly invite an emissary from Rome, one who represented the very person of their Antichrist!
On 10th June 1688 [her son] James "Old Pretender" Stewart was born to [her husband] King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 54] and Mary of Modena Queen Consort England Scotland and Ireland [aged 29]. Winifred Trentham [aged 43] and Charles Middleton 2nd Earl Middleton [aged 38] were present. He married 3rd September 1719 Maria Clementina Sobieska and had issue.
John Evelyn's Diary. 17th July 1688. This night the fireworks were played off, that had been prepared for the Queen's [aged 29] upsitting. We saw them to great advantage; they were very fine, and cost some thousands of pounds, in the pyramids, statues, etc., but were spent too soon for so long a preparation.
John Evelyn's Diary. 29th October 1688. Lady Sunderland [aged 42] acquainted me with his [her husband] Majesty's [aged 55] taking away the Seals from Lord Sunderland [aged 47], and of her being with the Queen [aged 30] to intercede for him. It is conceived that he had of late grown remiss in pursuing the interest of the Jesuitical counsels; some reported one thing, some another; but there was doubtless some secret betrayed, which time may discover.
John Evelyn's Diary. 29th October 1688. There was a Council called, to which were summoned the Archbishop of Canterbury [aged 71], the Judges, the Lord Mayor, etc. The Queen Dowager [aged 49], and all the ladies and lords who were present at the Queen Consort's [aged 30] labor, were to give their testimony upon oath of the [her son] Prince of Wales's birth, recorded both at the Council Board and at the Chancery a day or two after. This procedure was censured by some as below his [her husband] Majesty [aged 55] to condescend to, on the talk of the people. It was remarkable that on this occasion the Archbishop, Marquis of Halifax [aged 54], the Earls of Clarendon and Nottingham [aged 41], refused to sit at the Council table among Papists, and their bold telling his Majesty that whatever was done while such sat among them was unlawful and incurred praemunire;-at least, if what I heard be true.
John Evelyn's Diary. 14th November 1688. The Prince [aged 38] increases everyday in force. Several Lords go in to him. Lord Cornbury [aged 26] carries some regiments, and marches to Honiton, Devon, the Prince's headquarters. The city of London in disorder; the rabble pulled down the nunnery newly bought by the Papists of Lord Berkeley [aged 60], at St. John's. The Queen [aged 30] prepares to go to Portsmouth, Hampshire [Map] for safety, to attend the issue of this commotion, which has a dreadful aspect.
John Evelyn's Diary. 24th December 1688. The [her husband] King [aged 55] passes into France, whither the Queen [aged 30] and [her son] child were gone a few days before.
On 13th December 1688 Elizabeth Waller 1st Baroness Shelburne [aged 52] was created 1st Baroness Shelburne for life only by [her husband] King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 55]. Her son Charles Petty 1st Baron Shelburne [aged 15] was created 1st Baron Shelburne.
On 23rd December 1688 [her husband] King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 55] left England for France effectively abdicating as King England Scotland and Ireland. In April 1689 Parliament made William and Mary joint monarchs; His daughter [her step-daughter] Mary [aged 26] succeeded II Queen England Scotland and Ireland. His nephew William [aged 38] succeeded III King England Scotland and Ireland.
[1689]. Grant to the [her husband] King [aged 55] and Queen [aged 30] of 10s. in every £100 of Personal Estate.
Wee Your Majestyes most Dutyfull and Loyal Subjects the Commons Assembled in Parlyament haveing entred into a Serious Consideration of the great and extraordinary Expences in which Your Majesties are Engaged for the Reduceing of Ireland and for the Carrying on the Warr against the French King In order towards the Enabling Your Majesties to Prosecute the said Ends with Speede and Vigour doe most humbly present to Your Majestyes a Free Gift of the severall Sums of Money hereafter specified Beseeching Your Majestyes that it may be Enacted And bee it Enacted by the King and Queens most Excellent Majestyes by and with the Advice and Consent of the Lords Spirituall and Temporall and of the Commons in this present Parliament Assembled and by the Authoritie of the same That all and every Person and Persons Bodies Politick and Corporate Guilds or Fraternities within this Kingdome of England Dominion of Wales or Towne of Berwicke upon Tweede haveing any Personall Estate either in Debts oweing to them within this Realme or without which he she or they doe not account as desperate other then such Debts as now are or shall be oweing from Their Majestyes (over and besides such just Debts as he she or they shall bona fide owe) or in ready Moneys shall yield and pay unto Their Majestyes for every Hundred pounds in such Debts and ready Moneys the Summe of Ten shillings (to be paid by the Lender notwithstanding any Agreement to the contrary) to be Assessed Imposed Levyed and Collected in manner herein after mentioned.
II. Public Officers (Exceptions) to pay is. for every 20s. of the Profits of their Offices.
III. Pensions, &c. from Government exceeding £20 per Ann. to pay is in the Pound.
IV. Judges, Serjeants at Law, Barristers, Advocates, and Persons practising Physick, to pay 3s. in the Pound.
V. Rates of Payments by Peers, &c.
VI. Gentleman having Estate of £300 or more, to pay 20s. though an Infant; under that Estate, on Oath, not charged.
VII. Archbishop, £50. Bishop, £20. Deans, £10. Archdeacons, £2. 10s.
etc.
In 1689 Prince George of Denmark 1st Duke Cumberland [aged 35] was created 1st Duke Cumberland by his father-in-law [her husband] King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 55]. [her step-daughter] Queen Anne of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 23] by marriage Duchess Cumberland.
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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John Evelyn's Diary. 30th January 1689. The anniversary of King Charles I's MARTYRDOM; but in all the public offices and pulpit prayers, the collects, and litany for the King [aged 38] and Queen [aged 30] were curtailed and mutilated. Dr. Sharp [aged 43] preached before the Commons, but was disliked, and not thanked for his sermon.
John Evelyn's Diary. 21st February 1689. I saw the new [her step-daughter] Queen [aged 26] and King [aged 38], with great acclamation and general good reception. Bonfires, bells, guns, etc. It was believed that both, especially the Princess, would have shown some (seeming) reluctance at least, of assuming her father's [aged 55] crown, and made some apology, testifying by her regret that he should by his mismanagement necessitate the nation to so extraordinary a proceeding, which would have shown very handsomely to the world, and according to the character given of her piety; consonant also to her husband's first declaration, that there was no intention of deposing the King, but of succoring the nation; but nothing of all this appeared; she came into Whitehall laughing and jolly, as to a wedding, so as to seem quite transported. She rose early the next morning, and in her undress, as it was reported, before her women were up, went about from room to room to see the convenience of Whitehall; lay in the same bed and apartment where the late Queen [aged 30] lay, and within a night or two sat down to play at basset, as the Queen, her predecessor used to do. She smiled upon and talked to everybody, so that no change seemed to have taken place at Court since her last going away, save that infinite crowds of people thronged to see her, and that she went to our prayers. This carriage was censured by many. She seems to be of a good nature, and that she takes nothing to heart: while the Prince, her husband, has a thoughtful countenance, is wonderfully serious and silent, and seems to treat all persons alike gravely, and to be very intent on affairs: Holland, Ireland, and France calling for his care.
John Evelyn's Diary. 20th March 1692. My son was made one of the Commissioners of the Revenue and Treasury of Ireland, to which employment he had a mind, far from my wishes. I visited the Earl of Peterborough [aged 70], who showed me the picture of the Prince of Wales [aged 3], newly brought out of France, seeming in my opinion very much to resemble the Queen [aged 33] his mother, and of a most vivacious countenance.
John Evelyn's Diary. 6th April 1692. A fast. [her husband] King James [aged 58] sends a letter written and directed by his own hand to several of the Privy Council, and one to his [her step-daughter] daughter [aged 29], the Queen Regent, informing them of the Queen [aged 33] being ready to be brought to bed, and summoning them to be at the birth by the middle of May, promising as from the French King [aged 53], permission to come and return in safety.
On 28th June 1692 [her daughter] Louisa Maria Teresa Stewart was born to [her husband] King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 58] and Mary of Modena Queen Consort England Scotland and Ireland [aged 33].
On 28th December 1694 [her step-daughter] Mary Stewart II Queen England Scotland and Ireland [aged 32] died of smallpox shortly after midnight at Kensington Palace. Her body lay in state at the Banqueting House, Whitehall Palace [Map].
On 5th March 1695 she was buried in Westminster Abbey [Map]. Archbishop Thomas Tenison [aged 58] preached the sermon.
She had reigned for five years. Her husband King William III of England, Scotland and Ireland [aged 44] continued to reign for a further eight years.
On 26th March 1695 [her illegitimate step-son] James Fitzjames 1st Duke Berwick [aged 24] and Honora Burke Duchess Berwick [aged 21] were married at Saint-Germain-en-Laye, Yvelines. She by marriage Duchess Berwick. She the daughter of William Burke 7th Earl Clanricarde and Helen MacCarty Countess Clanricarde [aged 63]. He the illegitmate son of [her husband] King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 61] and Arabella Churchill [aged 46].
On 3rd April 1695 Piers Butler 1st Earl Newcastle [aged 43] and [her step-daughter] Henrietta Fitzjames Countess Newcastle [aged 28] were married. She by marriage Countess Newcastle in Limerick. She the daughter of [her husband] King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 61] and Anne Hyde Duchess of York.
On 13th January 1696 [her illegitimate step-son] Henry Fitzjames 1st Duke Albemarle [aged 22] was created 1st Duke Albemarle Jacobite.
In 1698 [her illegitimate step-son] James Fitzjames 1st Duke Berwick [aged 27] and Anne Bulkeley Duchess Berwick were married. She by marriage Duchess Berwick. He the illegitmate son of [her husband] King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 64] and Arabella Churchill [aged 48].
In 1698. Francois de Troy [aged 52]. Portrait of Mary of Modena Queen Consort England Scotland and Ireland [aged 39].
On 16th September 1701 [her husband] King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 67] died at Château de Saint Germain en Laye. He was buried in the Church of the English Benedictines.
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.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 18th April 1712 [her daughter] Louisa Maria Teresa Stewart [aged 19] died.
On 7th May 1718 Mary of Modena Queen Consort England Scotland and Ireland [aged 59] died.
Kings Franks: Great x 25 Grand Daughter of Charles "Charlemagne aka Great" King of the Franks King Lombardy Holy Roman Emperor
Great x 4 Grandfather: Alfonso Este I Duke Ferrara, Modena and Reggio
Great x 3 Grandfather: Alfonso Este Lord Montecchio
Great x 2 Grandfather: Cesare Este Duke Modena
Great x 1 Grandfather: Alfonso Este IV Duke Modena
GrandFather: Francesco Este I Duke Modena
Father: Alfonso Este IV Duke Modena
Mary of Modena Queen Consort England Scotland and Ireland
GrandFather: Girolamo Martinozzi Count da Fano
Mother: Laura Martinozzi Duchess Modena
Great x 1 Grandfather: Pietro Mazzarino
GrandMother: Laura Mazarin