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Biography
Biography
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Edward (I, King of England 1272-1307)

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 Born17 June 1239   Born AtPalace of Westminster
 Died7 July 1307  Buried AtWestminster Abbey
 FatherHenry (III, King of England 1216-1272)  MotherEleanor (of Provence)
SucceededHenry (III, King of England 1216-1272)Preceded Edward (II, King of England 1307-1327)
 Royal House Plantagenet Titles include King of England from 1272 to 1307; King of Man from 1290; King of Wales from 1284; Duke of Gascony from 1254; Lord of Ireland; Earl of Chester from 1254
 Born17 June 1239 / Palace of Westminster
 Died7 July 1307 / Westminster Abbey
dward I is also known as Longshanks or Hammer of the Scots. He was the eldest son of King Henry III the King of England and was born in June of 1239. King Henry III had a long reign and this meant that Edward was in his thirties before he became king himself. In 1254 at the age of fifteen Edward was married to Eleanor of Castile. Eleanor was the thirteen year old half-sister of Alfonso, the King of Castile, and the marriage was designed to help protect the lands of Gascony which England still owned. Edward was awarded the lands of Gascony through the marriage and took over from Simon de Montfort whose improper running of the area had led to revolt. King Henry III was eager to provide Edward with more experience of ruling and in the same year granted him lands in Wales, Ireland and the Channel Islands. Edward and Eleanor were married in Castile and returned to England in October of 1255.

Welsh revolt

Edward's leadership qualities were soon tested when Llywelyn ap Gruffydd declared himself ruler of North Wales and in 1256 rebelled against English control in his homeland. Edward and his father had put down the rebellion by 1257.

Baron's revolt

The harvests for the years 1256, 1257 and 1258 were poor due to bad weather and floods. King Henry III had been living beyond the country's means and his expenditure on conflicts with the Welsh, disastrous campaigns in France and extensive building work on new churches had cost the country dear. Also, the Pope was requesting the money that Henry had promised him for a failed campaign to add Sicily to the Papal domains and was threatening to excommunicate the King if the money was not paid. The Barons's led by Simon de Montfort decided they needed to confront the King, and in April 1258 the Barons called Henry to meet them at Westminster to voice their concerns. The meetings ended with no general agreement apart from the fact that they should all meet again at Oxford on June 11th. At Oxford a Committee of 24 drew up a series of proposals know as 'The Provisions of Oxford', and as an act of faith, Simon de Montfort handed over his castles at Odiham and Kenilworth to the King's control. Initially Edward took the side of the Barons against his father, but the conflict was drawn out and when finally war broke out between the two parties Edward had taken his father's side. In April of 1264 Edward and the King captured the castle at Northampton and along with it the son of Simon de Montfort but in May, at the Battle of Lewes, Henry and Edward were captured themselves. Edward remained in custody until May of 1265 when he managed to escape. In August of the same year the armies of the Barons and the King met at Evesham and Simon de Montfort was killed. Although the barons were defeated a small band of rebels held out in Ely until 1267.

Crusade

Edward took the cross (a commitment to go on Crusade) in 1268 and left for the Holy Land in July of 1270. In may of 1271, Edward helped relieve the city of Acre from the siege led by the Sultan of Egypt, but was later attacked by an Assassin. Edward survived the attack and began the journey home to England.

Becomes King

King King Henry III died in November of 1272 and news reached Edward while he was in Sicily. Edward must have been confident that his selection as the next king was not contested as he travelled around Europe not reaching England until August of 1274. Edward was crowned King of England at Westminster Abbey on 19th August, 1274.

Llywelyn of Wales

Edward's first test as king was to deal with Llywelyn ap Gruffydd, the prince of Wales. Llywelyn had not attended Edward's coronation, and failed to met king after several requests. The Welsh prince also stopped paying the sums of money to the English as agreed in the Treaty of Shrewsbury and so Edward had little option but to treat Llywelyn as a rebel and declared war on him. Support for Llywelyn collapsed in the centre of Wales but the North of Wales stood firm behind their prince. In July of 1277, Edward's army left Chester and began their attacks. A series of castles were built on the north coast of Wales from where Edward could leave troops to control the surrounding areas and which could be easily resupplied from the sea. By December, Llywelyn accepted defeat and the Welsh prince swore fealty to Edward at Westminster Abbey. Peace in Wales did not last long. In 1282 Llywelyn's brother David began another revolt and Llywelyn was killed in December of the same year. Edward continued his campaign against David during 1283, during which the construction of several important castles was begun. These castles included Caernarvon, Conwy and Harlech. David was captured in 1283 and executed several months after his arrest. Edward proceeded in building fortified towns or bastides in areas of Wales controlled by the English, and urged English settlers to move into them.

New laws and Parliament

Soon after becoming king, Edward set about reforming the laws of his kingdom. He instigated a review of all the land owners and their rights to own the land. From this information, he was able to plan his taxation more effectively to support his military campaigns. His first Parliament met in April of 1275 and in May, the Statute of Westminster defined the rules and privileges of these land owners.

The Eleanor Crosses

In November of 1290 Edward's wife Eleanor died. As Edward travelled back from Harby near Lincoln with her body to London, he stayed over night at several locations. Some time later, Edward arranged for crosses to be erected at each of these locations in memory of his wife.

Scotland and the Maid of Norway

In 1286 the Scottish king Alexander III died. He had no male heir and next in line for the Scottish throne was Alexander's grand-daughter Margaret, the Maid of Norway. Edward had arranged that his son Edward (II) was to marry Margaret and so unite the English and Scottish nations. Unfortunately Margaret died on the voyage to Scotland from her home in Norway. This left the Scottish throne vacant and the succession in dispute. The Scots asked Edward to mediate and from May to July of 1291 Edward met the claimants including Robert the Bruce. In 1292 Edward selected John Balliol who was a distant relation of Alexander as the new king. Balliol paid homage to Edward and Scotland came under English control.

Attacked from all sides

In May of 1294, relations with France dipped when Gascony was confiscated by Philippe IV. Edward went to Parliament to ask for funds to pay an army to fight the French but he met resistance. The Welsh and Scottish too were reluctant to pay for a war between England and France and a revolt began in Wales. Edward spent the end of 1294 and the beginning of 1295 dealing with the Welsh. In October of 1295, the Scots made an alliance with the French and Edward had little choice but to declare war on both. In November, Edward met with the first 'Model' parliament and it was agreed to raise the money needed to fund the campaigns. Edward took his army into Scotland in early 1296 and defeated Balliol at Dunbar on April 27th who was imprisoned in the Tower of London. Edward then removed the Stone of Scone on which the Scottish Kings were crowned and took it to Westminster. The Stone was to remain in London until very recently when it was returned to its rightful place. In 1297, Edward sailed to France to confront Philippe, but just before he left he was confronted by a group of Barons who were unhappy with the constant increase in tax that the king was demanding. In France, Edward arranged a truce and when he returned to England he signed the charters that forbade the King raising taxes without the consent of representatives of the whole country.

Treaty with France and war with Scotland

In August on 1297, Edward left England in the hands of three (?) barons and sailed to France. By October, he had managed to regain Gascony through a treaty with Philippe. Back at home, led by William Wallace, the Scots had rebelled and defeated the Earl Warenne and an English army at Stirling Bridge. Edward returned to England in the spring of 1298 and launched an attack on Scotland. Wallace was defeated at the battle of Falkirk on July 22 of 1298 by Edward and his archers with the powerful longbow. Wallace was not captured and managed to escape to France where he possibly remained until 1305 when he returned to Scotland and was captured. From 1300 until his death in July or 1307, Edward spent much of his time fighting or arranging a truce with the Scots. It was the rebellion led by Robert Bruce in 1306 which spurred Edward into his final march to Scotland but he was ill and at Burgh-on-Sands near Carlisle Edward died. He was succeeded by Edward (II), his youngest surviving son from his first marriage to Eleanor of Castile.


Related Episodes

The Second Barons' War (click here)

The Second Barons' War (click here)

Edward I and Scotland (click here)

Edward I and Scotland (click here)

Edward I and Wales (click here)

Edward I and Wales (click here)

Event Location Map (click image to explore)

Spouses

Fantasy image of Eleanor (of Castile)
Eleanor (of Castile)
Fantasy image of Margaret (of France)
Margaret (of France)

Children

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Show All
Show All
Fantasy image of Katherine (Daughter of Edward I)
Katherine (Daughter of Edward I)
Fantasy image of John (Son of Edward I)
John (Son of Edward I)
Fantasy image of Henry (Son of Edward I)
Henry (Son of Edward I)
Fantasy image of Eleanor (Daughter of Edward I)
Eleanor (Daughter of Edward I)
Fantasy image of Joan (of Acre)
Joan (of Acre)
Fantasy image of Alfonso (Son of Edward I)
Alfonso (Son of Edward I)
Fantasy image of Margaret
Margaret
Fantasy image of Mary (Daughter of Edward I)
Mary (Daughter of Edward I)
Fantasy image of Elizabeth
Elizabeth
Fantasy image of Edward (II, King of England 1307-1327)
Edward (II, King of England 1307-1327)
Fantasy image of Thomas (Earl of Norfolk)
Thomas (Earl of Norfolk)
Fantasy image of Edmund (Earl of Kent)
Edmund (Earl of Kent)

Siblings

Show All
Fantasy image of Edmund (Crouchback, Earl of Lancaster)
Edmund (Crouchback, Earl of Lancaster)
Fantasy image of Margaret (of England)
Margaret (of England)
Fantasy image of Beatrice
Beatrice

Parents

Fantasy image of Henry (III, King of England 1216-1272)
Henry (III, King of England 1216-1272)
Fantasy image of Eleanor (of Provence)
Eleanor (of Provence)
tab 2
tab 3

Contemporary People/Rulers

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Show All
Fantasy image of Alexander (III, King of Scotland 1249-1286)
Alexander (III, King of Scotland 1249-1286)
Fantasy image of Benedict (XI, Pope 1303-1304)
Benedict (XI, Pope 1303-1304)
Fantasy image of Bruce, Robert (the Bruce, I, King of the Scots 1306-1329)
Bruce, Robert (the Bruce, I, King of the Scots 1306-1329)
Fantasy image of Philippe (IV, The Fair, King of France 1285-1314)
Philippe (IV, The Fair, King of France 1285-1314)
Fantasy image of Boniface (VIII, Pope)
Boniface (VIII, Pope)
Fantasy image of Gruffydd, Dafydd ap (Welsh Prince)
Gruffydd, Dafydd ap (Welsh Prince)

 

Family Tree Details

Father:Henry (III, King of England 1216-1272) (b.1207 - d.1272)
Mother:Eleanor (of Provence) (b.1223? - d.1291)
Show Graphical Tree
 Edward (I, King of England 1272-1307) (b.1239 - d.1307)
    +Eleanor (of Castile) (b.1241 - d.1290)
    |   = Katherine (Daughter of Edward I) (b.1264 - )
    |   = John (Son of Edward I) (b.1266 - d.1271)
    |   = Henry (Son of Edward I) (b.1268 - d.1274)
    |   = Eleanor (Daughter of Edward I) (b.1269 - d.1298)
    |   = Joan (of Acre) (b.1271? - d.1307)
    |   = Alfonso (Son of Edward I) (b.1273 - d.1284)
    |   = Margaret (b.1275 - d.1318)
    |   = Mary (Daughter of Edward I) (b.1279 - )
    |   = Elizabeth (b.1282 - d.1316)
    |   = Edward (II, King of England 1307-1327) (b.1284 - d.1327)
    |       +Isabella (of France, Wife of Edward II) (b.1295 - d.1358)
    |           = Edward (III, King of England 1327-1377) (b.1312 - d.1377)
    |           |   +Philippa (of Hainault) (b.1314? - d.1369)
    |           |       = Edward (The Black Prince) (b.1330 - d.1376)
    |           |       = Isabella (Daughter of Edward III) ( - d.1382)
    |           |       = Joan (Daughter of Edward III) ( - d.1348)
    |           |       = William (Son of Edward III)
    |           |       = Lionel (of Antwerp, Duke of Clarence) (b.1338 - d.1368)
    |           |       = John (of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster) (b.1340 - d.1399)
    |           |       = Edmund (of Langley, Duke of York) ( - d.1402)
    |           |       = Mary (Daughter of Edward III) ( - d.1362)
    |           |       = Margaret (Daughter of Edward III) ( - d.1361)
    |           |       = Thomas (of Woodstock, Duke of Gloucester) ( - d.1397)
    |           = John (Earl of Cornwall) ( - d.1336)
    |           = Joan (of the Tower) (b.1321 - d.1362)
    |           |   +David (II, King of the Scots 1329-1371) (b.1324 - d.1371)
    |           = Eleanor (Daughter of Edward II)
    |               +Reginald (Duke of Guelderland)
    +Margaret (of France) (b.1279? - d.1317)
        = Thomas (Earl of Norfolk) ( - d.1338)
        = Edmund (Earl of Kent) ( - d.1330)
            +Wake, Margaret ( - d.1349)
                = Joan (of Kent) (b.1328? - d.1385)
                    +Edward (The Black Prince) (b.1330 - d.1376)
                        = Edward (of Angouleme) (b.1365 - d.1372?)
                        = Richard (II, King of England 1377-1399) (b.1367 - d.1400)
 Edward (I, King of England 1272-1307) (b.1239 - d.1307)
    +Eleanor (of Castile) (b.1241 - d.1290)
    |   = Katherine (Daughter of Edward I) (b.1264 - )
    |   = John (Son of Edward I) (b.1266 - d.1271)
    |   = Henry (Son of Edward I) (b.1268 - d.1274)
    |   = Eleanor (Daughter of Edward I) (b.1269 - d.1298)
    |   = Joan (of Acre) (b.1271? - d.1307)
    |   = Alfonso (Son of Edward I) (b.1273 - d.1284)
    |   = Margaret (b.1275 - d.1318)
    |   = Mary (Daughter of Edward I) (b.1279 - )
    |   = Elizabeth (b.1282 - d.1316)
    |   = Edward (II, King of England 1307-1327) (b.1284 - d.1327)
    |       +Isabella (of France, Wife of Edward II) (b.1295 - d.1358)
    |           = Edward (III, King of England 1327-1377) (b.1312 - d.1377)
    |           |   +Philippa (of Hainault) (b.1314? - d.1369)
    |           |       = Edward (The Black Prince) (b.1330 - d.1376)
    |           |       = Isabella (Daughter of Edward III) ( - d.1382)
    |           |       = Joan (Daughter of Edward III) ( - d.1348)
    |           |       = William (Son of Edward III)
    |           |       = Lionel (of Antwerp, Duke of Clarence) (b.1338 - d.1368)
    |           |       = John (of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster) (b.1340 - d.1399)
    |           |       = Edmund (of Langley, Duke of York) ( - d.1402)
    |           |       = Mary (Daughter of Edward III) ( - d.1362)
    |           |       = Margaret (Daughter of Edward III) ( - d.1361)
    |           |       = Thomas (of Woodstock, Duke of Gloucester) ( - d.1397)
    |           = John (Earl of Cornwall) ( - d.1336)
    |           = Joan (of the Tower) (b.1321 - d.1362)
    |           |   +David (II, King of the Scots 1329-1371) (b.1324 - d.1371)
    |           = Eleanor (Daughter of Edward II)
    |               +Reginald (Duke of Guelderland)
    +Margaret (of France) (b.1279? - d.1317)
        = Thomas (Earl of Norfolk) ( - d.1338)
        = Edmund (Earl of Kent) ( - d.1330)
            +Wake, Margaret ( - d.1349)
                = Joan (of Kent) (b.1328? - d.1385)
                    +Edward (The Black Prince) (b.1330 - d.1376)
                        = Edward (of Angouleme) (b.1365 - d.1372?)
                        = Richard (II, King of England 1377-1399) (b.1367 - d.1400)

See Also

    People

    • Henry (III, King of England 1216-1272)
    • Edward (II, King of England 1307-1327)
    • Eleanor (Daughter of Edward I)
    • Joan (of Acre)
    • Margaret
    • Elizabeth
    • Giffard, Walter
    • Gruffydd, Llywelyn ap
    • Margaret (Maid of Norway)
    • James (of St George)
    • Thomas (Earl of Norfolk)
    • Edmund (Earl of Kent)
    • Balliol, John (King of Scotland 1292-1296)
    • Gruffydd, Dafydd ap (Welsh Prince)
    • Crundale, Richard (Master)
    • Mortimer, Roger (1st Baron Mortimer)
    • Maredudd, Rhys ap
    • A .. Z List of Medieval People

    Places

    • Hereford Cathedral
    • Harlech Castle
    • Leeds Castle
    • Rhuddlan Castle
    • Flint Castle
    • Holt Castle
    • Ruthin Castle
    • Conwy Castle / Castell Conwy
    • Hawarden Castle
    • Builth Castle
    • Herstmonceux Castle
    • Stirling Castle
    • Urquhart Castle
    • Chirk Castle
    • Scone Abbey
    • Denbigh Castle
    • Aberystwyth Castle
    • Oystermouth Castle
    • Criccieth Castle
    • Caergwrle Castle
    • Beaumaris Castle
    • Dolwyddelan Castle
    • Castell-y-Bere
    • Cambridge Castle
    • A .. Z List of Medieval Buildings

    Other

    • Parliament
    • Acre

    Timeline

    1239
    Jun
    Edward (I) is born

    Edward was the first son born to King Henry III and Eleanor of Provence and was born at the Palace of Westminster. Simon de Montfort was chosen as his godfather by Henry III. ¹

    1246(Age: 7yrs)
    ...
    Beaulieu Abbey dedicated

    The Cistercian abbey at Beaulieu, founded earlier by King John, was dedicated in the presence of King Henry III, Queen Eleanor and Prince Edward. ¹

    1254(Age: 15yrs)
    ...
    Henry gives Edward his own lands

    King Henry III granted his eldest son Prince Edward areas of land including Crown lands in Wales, Ireland, the Channel Islands and Gascony. The prince was also given cities such as Bristol, Stamford and Grantham. These areas were on the edge of Henry's lands and the idea was to give Edward experience of governing lands of his own before becoming king. Edward was granted the three castles in the Marches, Skenfrith, White and Grosmont. ¹

    Aug
    Prince Edward arrives in Castile

    At the age of fifteen Prince Edward traveled from Portsmouth with his mother and the Archbishop of Canterbury to marry Eleanor of Castile the half-sister of the King Alfonso X of Castile. Both Edward and Eleanor were descended from King Henry II. They arrived in Burgos, the capital of Castile, in August where the marriage was due to take place. ¹

    Nov 1
    Prince Edward marries Eleanor of Castile

    Prince Edward married Eleanor of Castile in the Cistercian convent of Las Huelgas in Burgos.

    1255(Age: 16yrs)
    ...
    Angel Choir at Lincoln

    Work began on the construction of the Angel Choir at Lincoln Cathedral in order to house the body of St. Hugh. Work was completed in 1280. The celebration of the movement of the body was attended by King Edward I, the Queen and many important figures of the time.

    ...
    Llywelyn rules North Wales

    Llywelyn ap Gruffudd declared himself ruler of North Wales and had given himself the title of Prince of Wales. King Henry III told Prince Edward that he would not help remove Llywelyn from power and Edward would have to do that himself if he wanted his inheritance.

    Oct
    Edward and Eleanor return to England

    After the marriage at a Cistercian convent in Castile, Edward and Eleanor returned via Dover to England. Eleanor lived initially at Windsor Castle.

    1256(Age: 17yrs)
    Sep
    The Welsh invade the coastal plains

    Under their leader, Llywelyn ap Gruffydd, the Welsh invaded the northern coastal areas that had agreed to English rule. Prince Edward, who had been given the areas to administer himself by his father King Henry III asked his father for help but Henry refused.

    1257(Age: 18yrs)
    ...
    Henry and Edward reclaim the Lost Territories

    King Henry III relented to his son's demands for assistance to fight the Welsh, and joined him on a campaign to retake the territories lost to the Welsh under Llywelyn.

    1260(Age: 21yrs)
    Jul 17
    Llywelyn captures Builth Castle

    The castle at Builth Wells was captured by the Welsh. ¹

    1263(Age: 24yrs)
    ...
    Edward joins Simon de Montfort

    At this time, Edward (to become King Edward I), met up with Simon de Montfort and came under his influence. Edward, knights Simon's two eldest sons. This friendship was not to last.

    ...
    Edward raids the Temple in London

    On the pretence of removing his mother's jewels, Edward (I) entered the Knights Templar's Temple in London and ransacked the treasury, taking the proceeds to the Tower of London.

    Feb
    Edward returns to England

    Edward and his wife returned to England ¹

    1264(Age: 25yrs)
    ...
    Tutbury Castle attacked

    Prince Edward attacked the castle at Tutbury as it was the stonghold of one of the rebel barons.

    Apr
    Northampton captured by the King

    Henry and Edward captured the castle at Northampton where the sons of Simon de Montfort and their group of rebels were stationed. The sons (Henry and Simon the younger) were taken prisoner. ¹

    May 14
    Battle of Lewes

    Simon de Montfort surprised King Henry III and Prince Edward, with early movements of his troops on the hills above the castle at Lewes. Henry and Richard of Cornwall defend the centre and left of the castle, but Prince Edward attacked the lighter armed Londoners to the right and forced them to flee and followed them off the battle site. When he returned, he found that King Henry was trapped in the priory and gave himself up in exchange for his father's release. After the battle Simon de Montfort marched on London but the drawbridge on London Bridge had been raised by the Lord Mayor. Simon had the support of the Londoners who managed to lower the drawbridge allowing him into the city, ¹

    Summer
    Edward moved to Kenilworth

    Edward (I) was held captive at Wallingford Castle but after an escape attempt he was moved to Kenilworth Castle. ¹

    1265(Age: 26yrs)
    May 28
    Edward escapes

    Left in custody at Hereford, Edward (I) was rescued and joined Roger Mortimer and Gilbert de Clare at Wigmore Castle. Edward escaped by persuading his guards to allow him to exercise outside the castle. The prince had the guards test the speed of their horses, and when all were exhausted, mounted a fresh horse and made his escape. ¹

    Summer
    Armies march

    Simon's son was sent to London to raise money and troops. He diverted back through Winchester which was loyal to the king and then moved through Oxford and Northampton. Edward (I) moved from Worcester to Bridgnorth destroying bridges and means of allowing Simon who was on the Welsh side of the Avon from crossing back. The people of Bristol, friendly to Simon's cause sent ships to Newport to help Simon cross, but they were intercepted and destroyed by Edward. ¹

    Aug 1
    Younger Simon attacked at Kenilworth

    Simon's son was attacked at Kenilworth during the night being taken completely by surprise and having no chance to defend himself. They had decided to stay in the village rather than in the castle. The younger Simon managed to reach the safety of the castle.

    Aug 4
    Battle of Evesham

    Using the banners of Simon de Montfort's son captured at Kenilworth, prince Edward approached Simon's position at Evesham. Simon de Montfort was trapped in the bend of the river Avon and forced to fight. Simon was defeated and killed. Simon's youngest son took refuge in Kenilworth Castle, where prepared for a long siege, he managed to hold out until December 1267. ¹

    1266(Age: 27yrs)
    Oct
    Mise of Kenilworth

    The rebel barons were given the option by Edward to buy back their properties. Edward was careful not to cause friction between the king and the barons that may have restarted a war. ¹

    1268(Age: 29yrs)
    Jun
    Edward take the cross

    Prince Edward took the cross in preparation for a Crusade from Ottobuono Fieschi, the papal legate. Ottobuono Fieschi had been sent to help both Henry and Edward sort out troubles at home and was an important factor in the country's rule from 1265 to 1268.

    1270(Age: 31yrs)
    Jul
    Prince Edward leaves for the Holy Land

    Prince Edward, his wife Eleanor, his cousin Henry (son of the King of the Romans) and many knights left for the Holy Land to join the Eighth Crsuade.

    1271(Age: 32yrs)
    May
    Edward reaches Acre

    The Sultan of Babylon abandoned plans to attack Acre at the arrival of Edward. Edward moved on to Nazarus where large numbers of Muslims were killed. Becoming ill, Edward returned to Acre where he stayed for 18 months. The fortifications of Acre being too strong for any attackers, an assassination attempt was made on Edward by a messenger from the Emir of Jaffa. The messengers had become a regular occurrence and one managed to approach Edward while he was alone and unarmed. The assassin attempted to stab Edward with a poisoned knife, but Edward saved himself and killed the assassin instead. Edward did suffer a cut and the poison took hold. Luckily, a skilful doctor cut away the poisoned area and, with drugs sent by the master of the Knights Templar, Edward survived.

    1272(Age: 33yrs)
    Nov 23
    Edward chosen as King

    The Council met at the Temple in London and drafted a letter to Prince Edward informing him of his accession to the throne. There was no opposition. ¹

    1273(Age: 34yrs)
    Feb
    Edward visits the Pope

    Edward met the Pope in Rome.

    1274(Age: 35yrs)
    ...
    Vale Royal Abbey founded

    The foundation of this abbey in Cheshire was a result of an almost disastrous sea crossing by King Edward I. His fulfilment of a vow taken during the voyage resulted in a new abbey called Vale Royal. ¹

    ...
    Investigation into land ownership

    Edward ordered an investigation into the rights of ownership of the land owners in England. Land owners who had obtained land after the start of the reign of Richard I had to provide proof. The information gained from this investigation allowed Edward to plan his taxation more effectively.

    May
    Little battle of Chalons

    While staying in Guienne in France, Edward (I) was challenged to a duel by the Count of Chalons. Fearing a trap Edward took a thousand men with him and was faced by a force of double that. In the battle that ensued Edward's forces overcame the enemy and won.

    Aug 2
    Edward arrives home

    Edward (I) landed at Dover to be crowned king. (Why did it take him so long to return home after the death of his father?)

    Aug 19
    Edward I crowned at Westminster

    Seventeen days after returning from the Crusade, Edward was crowned King of England at Westminster Abbey.

    1275(Age: 36yrs)
    ...
    Revolt of Llywelyn of Wales

    Llywelyn ap Gruffydd of Wales had consistently failed to do homage to King Edward I. He had been paying sums of money to the English crown as agreed in the Treaty of Shrewsbury drawn up in 1267 but after the death of King Henry III the payments had stopped. Edward's repeated demands for a meeting with Llywelyn were ignored. In an attempt to stir up internal problems in England Llywelyn sent to France for Eleanor de Montfort who had been promised to him as a bride for his support of King Henry III in the Baronial revolt against the English King. Eleanor was captured by the English on the journey and was then held prisoner by Edward. Edward finally had to accept Llywelyn as a rebel and so began his war on the Welsh. Feudal levies were called for in June 1277 allowing an army to be raised via the feudal system to supports the King's war with the Welsh. ¹

    (to 1285)
    Major rebuilding work at the Tower of London

    King Edward I spent large sums of money improving the fortifications at the Tower of London. A new moat was dug and a curtain wall was built around it. The land between the Tower and the river was levelled and new apartments were built on the shore. Edward had a complex of gates added which meant it was extremely difficult to attack the castle through the main land entrance.

    ...
    Jews forbidden to lend money

    King Edward I ordered the Jews to stop lending money and charging high rates of interest (usury). Instead, Edward suggested that the Jews should become farmers or learn crafts to earn a living. The Church controlled many of the trade guilds so it was impossible for the Jews to join and it was not possible for them to suddenly learn how to farm land. This led to hardship for many and some resorted to coin clipping. This meant shaving small amounts of metal from coins and melting the shavings down to sell for profit.

    May
    Statute of Westminster

    The Statute of Westminster, drawn up between Parliament and King Edward I, defined the legal privileges that landowners were allowed. These were based on the investigations carried out in 1274 into the landowners rights to own their land.

    1277(Age: 38yrs)
    ...
    Construction of Builth Castle

    King Edward I ordered improvements to be made to the castle at Builth.

    ...
    Aberystwyth Castle rebuilt

    Reconstruction of the castle at Aberystwyth was begun by the English during King Edward I's conflict with Llywelyn ap Gruffydd. ¹

    ...
    Dafydd granted Ruthin Castle

    King Edward I of England granted Ruthin to Dafydd, the brother of Prince Llewelyn ap Gruffudd in return for his help against his brother who have been attacking English interests in the north of Wales. Construction of Ruthin Castle may have begun under the direction of Edward or Dafydd himself.

    Jun
    Feudal levies

    King Edward I called for feudal levies to be collected to pay for his war against the Welsh prince who had repeatedly refused to pay him homage.

    Jul
    Construction of Flint Castle begun

    As part of the plans to defeat Llywelyn, King Edward I ordered the construction of Flint Castle in Clwyd. Edward had been impressed by fortified town and castle combinations he had seen on his travels in France and Flint Castle was designed in the same manor. The castle was completed in 1280.

    Jul
    Edward reaches Worcester

    Joined by a force of some 800 cavalry and 2500 infantry at Worcester, King Edward I moved north to Chester. Edward's forces then proceeded to move along the north coast of Wales. His advance was impeded by dense forest which offered the Welsh good opportunities to launch surprise attacks on the English troops. Edward built a wide road through the forests building fortified posts along the way. The force of soldiers were on a forty-days service agreement and after that some returned home. Edward retained some by paying them extra for their services. ¹

    Aug
    Reconstruction of Rhuddlan Castle begun

    Leaving work on Flint Castle underway King Edward I moved on up the coast to Rhuddlan where he found the remains of an old Norman Motte and Bailey castle overlooking an important crossing point of the river Clywd. A new castle was ordered and work began to create both the castle and a new town alongside.

    Aug 13
    Vale Royal Abbey foundation stone laid

    Edward and his wife Eleanor of Castile laid the foundation stone of the Cistercian Abbey of Vale Royal in Cheshire. ¹

    Nov 10
    Edward defeats Llywelyn

    Llywelyn was cut off from supplies and an escape route so had to accept defeat. Edward demanded payment of £50,000 and all of Llywelyn's territories. Llywelyn was left only with the Isle of Anglesey which he had to pay rent of £1,000 a year. Edward also demanded that Anglesey should be handed over if Llywelyn died without a male heir. Llywelyn swore fealty to Edward at Rhuddlan on November 10th and again at a ceremony at Westminster Abbey on Christmas Day.

    1278(Age: 39yrs)
    ...
    Many Jews executed

    King Edward I raised the penalty for coin clipping from banishment to execution. Many Jews were arrested in London for coin clipping and almost 300 of them were executed for the crime. The practice entailed cutting slivers of metal off coins and forging new coins from the small pieces.

    Easter
    King Arthur's remains reburied

    King Edward I and Queen Eleanor visited Glasonbury Abbey and ordered that the tomb of King Arthur be opened for their inspection. In a ceremony the remains were taken to the high altar and then reburied. ¹

    Oct 13
    Llywelyn marries Eleanor

    With peace between Edward and Llywelyn, the marriage between Llywelyn and Eleanor de Montfort was allowed to continue. The marriage took place at Worcester and was attended by Edward. ¹

    Dec
    Norwich Cathedral re-dedicated

    On Advent Sunday, after several years of rebuilding, the cathedral at Norwich was re-dedicated by Bishop WIlliam de Middleton. King Edward I and Queen Eleanor were present at the ceremony. ¹

    1279(Age: 40yrs)
    (to 1280)
    Recoinage

    King Edward I had new coins minted. (To help fund Welsh campaigns?). The coins were so popular abroad that Edward had to ban any export of coins. Foreign fakes flood England. ¹

    Nov
    Statute of Mortmain

    King Edward I was concerned that the Church was becoming too wealthy at the expense of the country. To counteract this the Statute of Mortmain stated that land being given to the church must be done by royal approval. Land that had been donated to the Church in the past had reduced the tax revenues for the King.

    Nov
    Edward takes control of Carmarthan and Cardigan

    To assist in controlling Wales, King Edward took control of the castles at Carmarthan and Cardigan from his brother Edmund, the Duke of Lancaster.

    1281(Age: 42yrs)
    ...
    Beauchamp Tower at Tower of London built

    King Edward I was responsible for the construction of the Beauchamp Tower at the Tower of London on the western side of the curtain wall. It got its name later on in 1397 when Thomas Beauchamp was imprisoned there by Richard II. The three storey tower was large enough to hold not only the captive, but members of his household as well. It has been used to hold other important prisoners since.

    1282(Age: 43yrs)
    ...
    Construction of Denbigh Castle

    Another castle was built by King Edward I's master castle builder, James of St. George in North Wales.

    ...
    Five arches of London Bridge collapse

    A very cold winter caused ice and snow to form around the piers of London Bridge. The pressure of the ice caused five arches to collapse. King Edward I made sure that extra taxes were raised from people crossing the bridge to provide for its repairs. ¹

    ...
    Lordship Marcher of Dyffryn Clwyd

    When Dafydd ap Gruffyd rebelled against King Edward the Welsh area Dyffryn Clwyd became was granted to Reginald de Grey as a Marcher Lordship. Reginald was granted the castle at Ruthin.

    Easter
    Another Welsh Uprising

    David, Llywelyn's brother, rose up in revolt. Llywelyn, even though he had sworn fealty to Edward, joined his brother in the fight against the English.

    Aug
    Feudal levy gather at Rhuddlan

    King Edward had called for the feudal army to gather at Rhuddlan in August to put down the Welsh revolt. Edward and Eleanor's daughter Elizabeth was born at Rhuddlan at this time. ¹

    Nov 6
    English defeated

    Luke de Tany, on the side of the English, had taken control of Anglesey. The plan was attack the Welsh rebels from the north and so a bridge of boats was constructed across the Menai Straits that separate Anglesey from Wales. The Welsh were waiting for the English in force and the English plan failed. Many of the English knights drowned when the boat bridge was destroyed. ¹

    Dec 11
    Llywelyn killed

    Whilst fighting in the south of Wales Llywelyn was killed. He had moved to the rear of his army feeling secure with the way the war was progressing. A detachment of English found a way across the river Wye which Llywelyn was using for protection and moved around the rear of the Welsh army where the Prince was. Before Llywelyn could rejoin his army he was cut down and killed. His head was cut off and taken to the King Edward. Llywelyn's brother David carried on the fight against the English for another six months.

    1283(Age: 44yrs)
    ...
    Construction of Conwy Castle begun

    After capturing Dolwyddelan, Edward moved up the river Conwy to its mouth and a new castle was ordered. The castle's design and size were chosen to prove the royal power of the English King. Construction work lasted until 1297.

    ...
    Construction of Caernarfon Castle

    Edward and his master castle builder started the reconstruction of a new castle at Caernarfon.

    ...
    Cross of Neith taken by Edward I

    In Welsh, the Croes Naid, was believed to be a fragment of the true cross on which Christ was crucified. After the defeat of the Welsh by Edward I, the English King took possession of the relic.

    ...
    Aberconwy Abbey moved

    The original abbey's location was not suitable for the construction of a new castle at Conwy by King Edward I, so it was moved with the help of the English king to Maenan further up the river Conwy,

    Jan
    Dolwyddelan Castle captured

    After the death of Lleweyln Edward was free to occupy all the previous strongholds of the Welsh Princes. In 1283 Edward attacked and captured the Welsh castle at Dolyyddlan.

    Mar
    Castle Criccieth captured

    Edward moved around the Welsh coast to attack and capture the Welsh castle at Criccieth. He then moved on and ordered another castle to be built at Harlech. In the summer of 1283 King Edward provided money to improved the defences at Criccieth Castle. ¹

    Jun
    David of Wales captured

    David the brother of Llywelyn was handed over to the king by his own supporters who had already surrendered. He was taken to Shrewsbury Castle where a Parliament met and sentenced him to death by execution. ¹

    Oct 3
    Dafydd ap Gruffydd is executed

    Dafydd was found guilty of high treason and sentenced to death. His punishment for betraying the King was to be drawn, hanged and quartered.

    1284(Age: 45yrs)
    ...
    Rebuilding work at Aberystwyth

    King Edward I ordered reconstruction work at Aberystwyth Castle after it had been burnt and damaged in an earlier Welsh attack. ¹

    Mar
    Statute of Wales/Rhuddlan

    After the second Welsh rebellion Edward decided to bring Wales under direct rule. The Statute of Rhuddlan brought English laws to Wales. Edward appointed sheriffs and bailiffs for the northern territories while the southern areas were left under the control of the Marcher Lords.

    Apr 25
    Edward (II) is born

    Edward, the future king of England was born at Caernarfon Castle on the 25th April, 1284. His father was King Edward I and his mother was Eleanor of Castile. The castle was probably still under construction as work on it had only begun the year before.

    Jul
    'Round Table' event in Nefyn

    King Edward I arranged a 'Round Table' event and tournament at Nefyn in Wales. He promised the Welsh that he would provide them with a Prince of Wales. This he did as in 1284. Edward, the future King Edward II of England, was born. The young prince would be invested as the Prince of Wales in February 1301.

    Aug
    Death of Alfonso at Windsor

    At the time of his death, Alfonso was heir to the English throne as he was the eldest surviving son of King Edward I and Eleanor of Castile, but at the age of just ten at Windsor Castle he died. This left his four month-old younger brother, Edward, as heir.

    1285(Age: 46yrs)
    May
    Welsh relics paraded

    Several Welsh holy relics were paraded through London in a procession from the Tower of London to Westminster.

    1286(Age: 47yrs)
    (to 1289)
    Edward and Gascony

    King Edward I travelled around his duchy of Gascony between 1286 and 1289 rebuilding fortifications and generally bringing order to the region. ¹

    ...
    Edward and Eleanor go to France

    King Edward I and his wife Eleanor of Castile travelled to France and were away from England for three years. They went to pay homage to King Philippe IV of France and to attend to other matters.

    1287(Age: 48yrs)
    Jun
    Rebellion of Rhys ap Maredudd

    In the summer of 1287, Rhys ap Maredudd, the Lord of Dryslwyn rebelled against King Edward I. Although Rhys ap Maredudd had assisted the English King in the past, he accused Edward of treating him unfairly over taxes. The rebels burned several towns including Swansea and Carmarthen.

    Aug
    The English invade Wales

    The King replied to the Welsh rebelion by raising an army at Gloucester to be commanded by the Earl of Cornwall. The army besiged Dryslwyn Castle and the siege lasted three weeks before the castle fell after the curtain walls were undermined. Rhys ap Maredudd managed to escape before the castle was captured.

    Nov
    Fall of Newcastle Emlyn Castle

    After Dryslwyn Castle fell to the English, Rhys ap Maredudd fled to Newcastle Emlyn Castle. The English took their siege engines to the castle and a siege began. The warfare continued over the winter period.

    1288(Age: 49yrs)
    Jan
    Newcastle Emlyn Castle falls to the English

    Newcastle Emlyn Castle fell to the English after a ten day siege and Rhys ap Maredudd's rebellion was over. Rhys may have been exiled to Ireland.

    1289(Age: 50yrs)
    ...
    Judges on trial for corruption

    Returning to England after several years away, King Edward found the country suffering from violence and corruption. He had many of the Judges arrested accusing them of accepting bribes. All but two of the accused Judges were found guilty and dismissed from their positions. They also faced large fines.

    Aug
    Edward returns to England

    Edward and Eleanor return to England after a three year visit to their foreign domains.

    1290(Age: 51yrs)
    ...
    Quia Emptores

    A statute passed by King Edward I putting an end to the practice of sub-infeudations. Sub-infeudation was the practice of tenants who had rented land from a lord sub-letting the land to other people. The problem with this was that it was difficult for the lord to raise taxes because he did not have control over all the people who were renting his land. The Statute allowed land to be sold according to royal approval as long as the new owner answered directly to the lord or the king.

    ...
    Isle of Man

    King Edward I took the Isle of Man under his protection.

    Jul 18
    Treaty of Brigham

    The Treaty of Brigham saw agreement for the marriage of Margaret the Maid of Norway to the first Prince of Wales Edward. Margaret was the granddaughter of Alexander III the king of Scotland and was the successor to the Scottish crown. The death of Margaret on the voyage led to disputed succession in Scotland. ¹

    Jul 18
    Edict of Expulsion

    The Edict of Expulsion was a royal decree issued by King King Edward I forcing all the Jews in England to leave the country. Edward wanted to raise taxes so that he could pay for his Crusade but raising taxes was not popular. To get the approval for his tax from the nobles and knights he promised them that he would get rid of the Jews from England. The Jews were ordered to be gone by the end of October or face death.

    Nov 28
    Eleanor of Castile dies

    Eleanor of Castile, the wife of King Edward I died while travelling in the North with the King. Eleanor had been suffering with illness for some time and the cold and damp of the Winter months probably aggravated her condition. ¹

    Dec
    The 'Eleanor Crosses'

    As Edward travelled with the body of his wife Eleanor from Harby near Lincoln where the Queen died to Westminster a series of crosses were later erected at each location that the body rested over night. These are known as the 'Eleanor Crosses' ¹

    1291(Age: 52yrs)
    ...
    Licence to crenelate at Stokesay

    King Edward I granted Lawrence of Ludlow a licence to fortify his manor house at Stokesay.

    ...
    Floris, Count of Holland claims the Scottish throne

    One of many claimants to the Scottish throne was Floris, Count of Holland. He claimed the throne through Ada of Huntingdon, his great-grandmother and sister of William the Lion, King of Scotland. His claim was not taken seriously.

    ...
    Robert de Pinkeney claims the Scottish throne

    Robert de Pinkeney claimed the Scottish throne through his great-grandmother Marjorie of Huntingdon, the sister of William the Lion, King of Scotland.

    ...
    William de Ros cliams the Scottish throne

    William de Ros was one of the many claimants to the Scottish throne. His claim was based on his great-grandfather's marriage to Isabella, the daughter of William the Lion, King of Scotland.

    ...
    Patrick, Earl of March claims the Scottish throne

    Patrick, Earl of March claimed the Scottish throne through his great-grandmother, Ada, the illegitimate daughter of King William the Lion of Scotland.

    ...
    William de Vesci claims the Scottish throne

    William de Vesci's claim to the Scottish throne was through his grandmother Marjory, the daughter of William the Lion.

    ...
    Patrick Galythly claims the Scottish throne

    Patrick Galythly was the son of Henry Galythly, the son of William king of Scots. The claim was dismissed because his father was an illegitimate child.

    ...
    Several more claimants to the Scottish throne

    There were more unsuccessful claimants to the Scottish throne including William de Vesci through his grandmother Marjory, the daughter of William the Lion; Patrick Galythly, the son of Henry Galythly, the son of William king of Scots. The claim was dismissed because his father was an illegitimate child; Nicolas de Soulis, who claimed to be the grandson of Marjory, daughter of Allexander II; Roger de Mandeville, through an illegitimate daughter of William the Lion called Aufrica who married William de Say in Ulster; John Comyn Lord of Badenoch, who claimed to be a descendant of Donand Bane; and even Eric King of Norway, the father of Margaret put in a claim to the Scottish throne as hier to his daughter but with little hope of success.

    May 10
    Edward I meets Scottish Claimants

    King Edward I met the claimants for the Scottish crown at Norham. There were three main claimants to the throne all of whom were descended from David Earl of Huntingdon, the brother of William the Lion who died in 1214. There were many claimants but the three main contenders were John Balliol, Robert Bruce and John Hastings. The decision was delayed until the following year to allow all the facts to be taken into account.  ¹

    1292(Age: 53yrs)
    ...
    English and Norman sailor fight

    A small scale war breaks out between English and Norman sailors after a Norman sailor is killed in a brawl with an English Sailor. The Normans demand the English sailor is handed over but he is not and in following battles many sailors were killed on both sides. Things escalate and Philippe of France demands Edward pay homage to him as Edward is Duke of Aquitaine, a vassal of the French King. Edward refuses and sends his brother Edmund instead. Edmund agrees with Philippe to surrender Gascony to the French.

    ...
    Isle of Man surrendered

    The Isle of Man was surrendered to John Balliol by the order by King Edward I.

    Nov 17
    John Balliol chosen by Edward I as Scottish King

    At Berwick King Edward I declared John Balliol to be the new Scottish King. ¹

    1293(Age: 54yrs)
    Mar 25
    King Edward at Cambridge Castle

    King Edward I stayed two nights at Cambridge Castle. ¹

    1294(Age: 55yrs)
    ...
    Edward Balliol asks for resources

    Edward Balliol arrived in London and asked for men and money for Edward's French war. ¹

    ...
    Outrage at Philippe's actions

    King Edward I concluded a marriage agreement between his son Edward (II) and Philippa, the daughter of Guy, Count of Flanders. Aware of possible dangers of this alliance, Philippe, king of France invited Guy and his wife to Paris where he kidnapped and imprisoned them. Because of the general outrage at this action, Philippe was forced to free Guy and his wife, but to prevent the marriage, Philippa was brought to Paris where she was held as a hostage. She was twelve years old at the time.

    May
    Philippe IV confiscates Gascony

    As part of peace negotiations between England and France it was proposed that King Edward I would marry Blanche of France, the half-sister of Philippe IV, and Philippe would take back Gascony. This was agreed but the French King changed the agreement by replacing Blanche with her younger sister Margaret. This action saw the peace negotiations fail and England and France were again at war with each other.

    Oct 30
    A Welsh rebellion

    Edward needed an army to fight in France and ordered the Welsh to provide men to meet at Shrewsbury. Unwilling to fight abroad, the Welsh took the opportunity to rise up against an English army reduced in numbers due to the problems in France. Edward once again had to fight the Welsh. One of the leaders of this revolt was Madog ap Llywelyn.

    1295(Age: 56yrs)
    Jan
    Edward besieged at Conwy

    Bad weatther and unusually high tides prevented Edward advancing against the rebels and after spending Christmas at Conwy Castle Edward's attempts to defeat the Welsh were further hampered by losses of supplies to the Welsh. The king held his position at Conwy Castle waiting for improved weather and to receive supplies by sea.

    Apr
    Construction of Beaumaris Castle begun

    The construction of Beaumaris Castle on Anglesey is begun under the direction of master mason James of St. George.

    Apr
    Edward occupies Anglesey

    Supplies reached Edward at Conwy castle and he was able to march against the Welsh. By April had occupied Anglesey.

    Nov
    The first Model Parliament

    King Edward I called together a parliament consisting of a cross-section of society; the heads of the church, the Barons and members of the burghs. The parliament agreed that a tax could be raised to allow the king to launch attacks on the Scots and the French.

    1296(Age: 57yrs)
    ...
    Edward captures Urquhart Castle

    The castle on Loch Ness fell to the English. Sir William Fitz Warine was left in charge of the castle as its Constable. ¹

    Feb
    Conflict between Pope and Kings of France and England

    To help pay for a war with England, the French king Philippe IV, imposed a tax on the wealthy church clergy. In response Pope Boniface issued Bull Clericus Laicos, banning any taxation of the clergy in France and England. In return the French king banned any money leaving France destined for Rome without his permission. In England King Edward called for a law to be passed that removed royal protection from any clergy that refused to pay. This meant anyone could rob the Church and would not be held to account.

    Mar 30
    Berwick massacre

    King Edward ordered his army to attack the badly fortified town of Berwick. Many Scots were killed in the two days of the attack and possibly somewhere between 7000 and 17000 men, women and children were slaughtered.

    Apr
    Balliol: Renounces homage to England

    In March of 1296 King Edward I had attacked and sacked Berwick. Balliol renounced homage to England. ¹

    Apr 27
    Battle of Dunbar

    John Balliol was defeated at the battle of Dunbar by King Edward I.

    Summer
    Philippe IV threatens Edward

    Philippe the King of France took the opportunity of Edward's troubles in England to threaten the lands that Edward held in France.

    Jul
    Balliol: Surrenders at Stracathro, Edward takes the Stone of Scone

    The English had taken many castles and in July 1296 Balliol surrendered to King Edward I and was imprisoned in the Tower of London. Edward advanced to Elgin and on his return to England took the Stone of Scone. ¹

    Aug
    The First Interregnum

    King Edward I created a government for Scotland consisting of John de Warnne, Earl of Surrey as Governor; Hugh de Cressingham as Treasurer; Walter of Agmondesham as Chancellor; William Ormesby as Justicar. This English government was very unpopular and soon the Scots where up in revolt. ¹

    1297(Age: 58yrs)
    Jan
    Marriage proposal

    In response to the fear that the King of France would try to take back some of the lands Edward held in France, King Edward I arranged a marriage between his son Edward and Philippa, the daughter of the Count of Flanders, an enemy of the King of France.

    Feb
    Edward is deserted by the Barons

    Opposed to his plans to invade Flanders and Guienne, the Barons including the Earl of Hereford and the Earl of Norfolk deserted King Edward I. 1500 knights also decided to oppose the plans. Aware of the dangers of the opposition to his power, Edward appeared before a large crowd at Westminster Hall and received total loyalty.

    Apr 14
    Edward appeals for support

    Outside Westminster Hall, King Edward I made an appeal for support for the war in France. He apologised for high tax demands he had previously levied. He also asked the Barons to swear allegiance to Edward of Caernarfon, the future Edward II, King of England. He received the support he needed. ¹

    Jul
    Confederacy formed and destroyed

    In Scotland, a group of nobles form a confederacy (organised by Bishop Wishart of Glasgow), but were defeated at Irvine. An agreement of submission to King Edward I was signed by the future king of the Scots Robert I and other Scottish leaders. ¹

    Aug
    Confirmation of the Charters

    Before Edward left for his campaign against the French, he was given a list of grievances by the Earls of Hereford and Norfolk. Two charters were the result, the Charter of the Forest and the Magna. The charters were a big defeat for Edward and meant he could no longer levy taxes as he wished without the approval of the Church, Barons, Earls and other free men. Edward sealed the charters whilst at Ghent in November of the same year. ¹

    Aug
    Edward sails for Flanders

    Leaving an unhappy England behind him, Edward left for France to fight Philippe. ¹

    Winter
    Edward I accepts Truce

    A truce proposed by Philippe was accepted by King Edward I.

    1298(Age: 59yrs)
    May
    Edward at York

    King Edward I held a Parliament at York to discuss the situation in Scotland. It wasn't long before an English army was prepared to go into Scotland. ¹

    Jul 22
    Battle of Falkirk

    Edward's army defeated William Wallace. The battle is dominated by the English and Welsh longbows.

    1299(Age: 60yrs)
    Mar
    Edward evades Parliament

    King Edward I was supposed to appear before Parliament at Westminster where the Barons wanted him to abide by rules preventing him levying taxes not agreed upon by the Barons. Edward failed to attend but the Barons tracked him down and forced him to comply.

    Jul
    Balliol released from the Tower

    King Edward released John Balliol from the Tower of London and placed him into the custody of Pope Boniface to be held in papal residence. This arrangement ended a few years later and Balliol retired to his family's ancestral home in Picardy.

    Sep
    Edward marries

    King Edward I married Margaret, the sister of King Philippe of France, and his son, Prince Edward, married Philippe's daughter Isabella.

    1300(Age: 61yrs)
    May
    Edward starts another Scottish campaign

    After staying briefly at the Abbey of Bury St. Edmunds, King Edward I travelled north to Carlisle. His son, Edward (II) of Caernarfon remained at the Abbey for a week longer, living as a monk, before following his father. The king ensured his standard had been blessed by every holy relic that the Abbey possessed. ¹

    Jul
    Caerlaverock Castle siege

    After a short siege lasting only 5 days Caerlaverock Castle fell, the Scots giving King Edward I little resistance. Prince Edward of Caernarfon took control of the rearguard of the English army and apart from a small skirmish, saw no action. ¹

    Aug
    The Pope Intervenes

    Pope Boniface sent a letter to King Edward I demanding that he should withdraw from Scotland. Edward ignored the letter, but because the campaign was not a success, the English soon left for England anyway. ¹

    Oct 30
    Truce with the Scots

    Edward arranged a truce and returned to England. ¹

    1301(Age: 62yrs)
    Feb
    Edward (II) invested as Prince of Wales

    Prince Edward was invested by his father King Edward I as 'Prince of Wales' and was granted royal lands in Wales.

    May 20
    Treaty finally signed

    The peace treaty between England and France was finally signed.

    Jul
    Edward advances into Scotland

    King Edward I found the land laid waste as he advanced into Scotland. At Linlithgow he halted and built a castle where he spent Christmas.

    1302(Age: 63yrs)
    Spring
    Treaty is signed

    King Edward I and the Scots signed a peace treaty. John Segrave was left in charge in Scotland with a force of 20,000 men.

    1303(Age: 64yrs)
    May
    Edward's last campaign in Scotland

    William Wallace had returned to Scotland from France where he had been in exile and so Edward took an army into Scotland. ¹

    ...
    Edward takes Urquhart Castle

    As part of Edward's campaign in Scotland he attacked and took control of Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness. Sir Alexander Comyn was left in change. ¹

    May 20
    Treaty of Paris

    After his defeat at Courtrai Philippe IV called on King Edward I for a peace treaty. Part to this involved Edward regained some French land and Philippe's daughter, Isabella, marrying Edward's son, the future Edward II, king of England.

    Jun
    Edward I reaches Perth

    King Edward I had reached Perth by June and stayed there until July. In August Edward had besieged Brechin. ¹

    Dec
    Edward stays at Dunfermline Abbey

    Edward spent the winter months at Dunfermline Abbey where he planned the attack on Stirling Castle. ¹

    1304(Age: 65yrs)
    Spring
    Edward besieges Stirling Castle

    Edward began a siege of Stirling Castle. ¹

    Jul
    Stirling Castle surrenders

    The Scots surrendered Stirling Castle to Edward. The constructions of a huge trebuchet was ordered by the English king to bombard the castle into submission. The siege engine was called Warwolf. ¹

    1306(Age: 67yrs)
    May 22
    Feast of the Swans

    At the 'Feast of the Swans' held at Westminster Abbey, Edward I knighted his son, the future king Edward II, and took an oath to avenge the murder of John III Comyn, Lord of Badenoch by Robert Bruce. No mercy to be shown to any Scots captured in battle.

    Jun 19
    Battle of Methven

    Robert Bruce, the new King of Scotland, was camped on high ground by the River Almond near Methven, west of Perth. An English army led by the Earl of Pembroke attacked the Scots in an early morning raid. Unprepared for the assault, the Scots were defeated but Bruce was able to make his escape.

    1307(Age: 68yrs)
    Jul 7
    Death of Edward I

    King Edward I died at Burgh-upon-the-Sands on the Solway with Scotland in view across the Firth. Right up until his death Edward's priority was the realms that he ruled. After his death Edward's body was embalmed and transported to Waltham Abbey in Essex. Here it lay unburied for several weeks presumably so that people could come and see the body lying in state. After this the body was taken to Westminster Abbey for a proper burial. ¹

    Jul 8
    Edward II becomes king

    Edward the eldest son of King Edward I became King of England.

    Oct 28
    Edward I buried at Westminster Abbey

    After lying in state for several weeks at Waltham Abbey King Edward's body was moved to Westminster Abbey for burial.

    On this day in history:

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    Selection of references used:

    • 1. Elizabeth Luckock and Caroline Gundy, Simon de Montfort, 1969, ISBN:08-008236-6
    • 2. Abbot Gasquet, The Greater Abbeys of England, 1908
    • 3. John Chancellor, The Life and Times of Edward I, 1981
    • 4. John Corbet Anderson, Shropshire: Its Early History and Antiquities
    • 5. Jean Powie, Eleanor of Castile, ISBN:0-947731-79-2
    • 6. John E.N. Hearsey, Bridge, Church and Palace In Old London, 1961
    • 7. Bonamy Dobree, English Revolts, 1937
    • 8. Kenneth H.Vickers, England in the Later Middle Ages, 1921
    • 9. Mike Salter, Castles of South-West Wales
    • 10. Unknown, A topographical and historical account of Norwich, 1819
    • 11. Colin Platt, Medieval England, ISBN:0-7100-8815-9
    • 12. Alan Reid, Castles of Wales, ISBN:0-540-07052-1
    • 13. J.D. Mackie, A History of Scotland, 1978, ISBN:0-7139-1206-5
    • 14. Charles Henry Cooper, Memorials of Cambridge, Volume 2, 1866
    • 15. Susan Ross, The Castles of Scotland, ISBN:0-85097-184-5
    • 16. Caroline Bingham, The Life and Times of Edward II
    • 17. John Fines, Who's Who in the Middle Ages
    • 18. Powicke, The Thirteenth Century

      See Also

        People

        • Henry (III, King of England 1216-1272)
        • Edward (II, King of England 1307-1327)
        • Eleanor (Daughter of Edward I)
        • Joan (of Acre)
        • Margaret
        • Elizabeth
        • Giffard, Walter
        • Gruffydd, Llywelyn ap
        • Margaret (Maid of Norway)
        • James (of St George)
        • Thomas (Earl of Norfolk)
        • Edmund (Earl of Kent)
        • Balliol, John (King of Scotland 1292-1296)
        • Gruffydd, Dafydd ap (Welsh Prince)
        • Crundale, Richard (Master)
        • Mortimer, Roger (1st Baron Mortimer)
        • Maredudd, Rhys ap
        • A .. Z List of Medieval People

        Places

        • Hereford Cathedral
        • Harlech Castle
        • Leeds Castle
        • Rhuddlan Castle
        • Flint Castle
        • Holt Castle
        • Ruthin Castle
        • Conwy Castle / Castell Conwy
        • Hawarden Castle
        • Builth Castle
        • Herstmonceux Castle
        • Stirling Castle
        • Urquhart Castle
        • Chirk Castle
        • Scone Abbey
        • Denbigh Castle
        • Aberystwyth Castle
        • Oystermouth Castle
        • Criccieth Castle
        • Caergwrle Castle
        • Beaumaris Castle
        • Dolwyddelan Castle
        • Castell-y-Bere
        • Cambridge Castle
        • A .. Z List of Medieval Buildings

        Other

        • Parliament
        • Acre
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        1: Location

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        2: Alignment

        Stonehenge is aligned to the Summer Solstice. Old Wardour has a very similar alignment.

        3: Size

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