Thursday, April 30, 2009

A Place in Time

I guess the reason I enjoy this so much is because I am sort of a history nut. Even as a child I enjoyed reading anything to do with history and since we do have Indian blood in us I read everything I could get my hands on. Much of what I found on Cody and Courtney's line has been through their granny Doris's line and even then mainly from her great grandmother. I have yet to completely write the majority of it because their line intertwines so much with Cheryl's. As late as the early 1500's we find them still on the throne in Scotland with King James IV and still in the courts as a Lady in Waiting for Mary Queen of Scots. Their 17th great grandmother Janet Stewart was the daughter of King James IV by one of his mistresses, thereby the half sister of Mary and one of the guardians of the infant queen and her daughter Mary Fleming being one of the "Four Mary's"

Lady Janet Stewart has been argued to have been the daughter of Isabel Buchan but sources claim that it was Isabel's sister who was also one of Jame's mistresses who was Janet's mother. Janet was a brief mistress to King Henry II of France, after the death of her husband Malcolm Fleming, while there with the young Queen Mary. Your direct line continues through their son John Fleming, the 5th Lord Fleming. His sister Mary who was one of the Four Mary's who traveled with the young Mary, Queen of Scots to France when she was 5 years old, where she would remain for 13 years. Mary Flemings future husband Sir William Maitland was also Queen Mary's secretary of State.

Janet's affair with King Henry produced an ilegitimate son who would later be legitimized and become grand prieur de France.

The end result of course was that Mary, Queen of Scots was beheaded by her cousin Elizabeth I, by the direction of her staff. Of course Elizabeth is also related to Cody and Courtney as a cousin.

While Lady Janet's line goes back to Robert the Bruce and the Plantagenet lines her grandaughter married William Bruce which also goes back to Robert's line and four generations later they would marry into the Wallace line ultimately going back to William Wallaces father making him an Uncle who served with Robert "the Bruce" made popular by the movie Braveheart.

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Cheryl (Underwood) Tillia

Many of Cheryl's relatives have a hard time believing the names that we have mentioned as ancestors and while I have given some links I will now lay it out. Each of these lines have been researched to insure accuracy some from birth records listed on line and others from historical documents that are available.

Cheryl (Underwood, Woznick) Tillia

F) Richard Underwood (still working on his line)
M) Martha "Marty" Hash

Martha Hash, wife of Richard Underwood

F) Elbert Terry Hash
M) Ella Louise Patrick

F) John Henry Hash
M) Flora Mae (Lee as it is also recorded) Long 1892-1970

Flora Long, wife of John Henry Hash

F) John Alexander Long - continues back 2 gen and stops for now
M) Esther C. Bertram 1859 born in Kentucky

Esther Bertram, wife of John A. Long

F) Jonathan Bertram 1823 in KY continues back 4 more generations and stops for now
M) Pharaba Adkins 1824 in KY

Pharaba Adkins, wife of Jonathan Bertram

F) Morris Adkins 1803 in KY
M) Rebecca Young

F) Benjamin Adkins 1770 VA
M) Catherine Stigall 1779 NC

F) Owen Adkins 1750 VA goes back 6 more generations to 1530
M) Agnes Goad 1750 VA

Agnes Goad, wife of Owen Adkins

F) John Goad 1729 VA
M) Margaret Chiles 1726 VA

F) John Goad 1700 VA
M) Katherin Jenning ?

F) Abraham Goad 1655
M) Katherine Williams 1668

F) Richard Goad 1617 England ends here for now
M) Phoebe Hawes 1609 England

Phoebe Hawes, wife of Richard Goad

F) John Hewes 1583 England
M) Mary Foote 1584 England

Mary Foote, wife of John Hewes

F) Robert Foote 1553
M) Joane Brooke 1555

F) John Foote line ends His children eventually moved into US and became signers of the Declaration of Independence and more. His son Nathaniel's line held future presidents.

M) Helen Warren - line ties into the de Warren line somewhere

Joane Brooke, wife of Robert Foote

F) John Brooke 1525
M) Elizabeth Whatman

F) Robert Brooke 1495
M) Katheryn 1500

F) Robert Brooke 1463
M) Ursula Offley 1470

F) Edward Brooke 1440
M) Florence Ashfield 1442

F) Reginald Brooke 1419
M) Annie Everton 1421

F) Thomas Brooke 1392 - line continues back to 1190
M) Joan Braybrooke 1392

Joan Braybrooke, wife of Thomas Brooke

F) Reginald Braybrooke 1344
M) Joan de la Pole 1379

Joan de la Pole, wife of Reginald Braybrooke

F) John de la Pole 1335
M) Joan de Cobham 1340

Joan de Cobham, wife of John de la Pole

F) John de Cobham 1321
M) Margaret de Courtenay 1326

Margaret de Courtenay, wife of John de Cobham

F) Hugh de Courtenay 1303 2nd Earl of Courtenay
M) Margaret de Bohun 1311

Margaret de Bohun, wife of Hugh de Courtenay

F) Humphrey IV de Bohun 1276
M) Elizabeth Plantagenet 1282

Both of these lines continue back into royalty. Humphrey is an Uncle to the direct line of Daniel Boone with and unbroken male line. Elizabeth is the daughter of Edward I "Longshanks" Plantagenet, King of England. Through out these lines are, Kings, Queens, Earls, Dukes, Knights including Knights Templar, Bishops, and more. From here we go back to an Irish line that continues as far back as 1200 BC with and unbroken male line of Kings or High Dukes of Ireland. We also go into Scotland, Germany, Hungary, Poland, Turkey, Norway, Russia, Mongolia, Jerusalem, France and Italy. This was a result of attempting to gain peace and create aliances with enemies.

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Tillia Family

The beginning of our family for me was as such. I was born on March 19, 1965 to Stephen Carlton Settle, deceased (son of Marion Settle and Constance Lombardo both deceased) and Julia Mae Hawes (daughter of Cecil Clede Hawes (deceased) and Hannah Lee Finley). My brother Richard (Rick) was born December 11, 1967. Mom and Steve divorced and she later married Charles Franklin Tillia (son of Frank Tillia and Mary Glasser) who adopted Rick and myself as his own children. As we were both young at the time we grew up as Tillia's even though he and mom insured that we had contact with our real father until his death in 1982. During our childhood our cousins from our real fathers side often spent many weeks with us over the summer and Billy, (Masters) Aunt Jeanette's son actually lived with us for a year or so. Chad Allen Tillia and Dawn Lee Ann Tillia were born a few years later and the family was complete for the time being. We were living in a trailer just over the hill from Grandpa and Grandma Tillia until we moved in or around 1975 to the farm that they now live in. Much of our childhood was spent weeding the gardens, riding horses, fishing, hunting or just roaming all over the woods. I left home in 1983 after graduating high school and spent almost a year at Word of Life Bible College, first working as a wrangler at their youth ranch for the summer and continuing on at their Bible College. When I left there I joined the Air Force and after basic training and tech school I was based at Dyess Airforce Base in Abilene Texas where I met Gayla Jewel Tillia (Daughter of Dale Ray Stone (deceased) and Doris Whitehead) and we were married Feb. 5, 1985 in Abilene. Stephen Cody Tillia was born June 24, 1986 in Abilene. Soon after his birth we moved to Tampa, Florida where we would remain until I left in 2003. We did move for a year in 1989 - 90. We were later divorced around 1992. Courtney Dawn Tillia was born May 10. 1988 and her brother Chance DaleRay (Tillia) Huff was born a few years later. After our divorce it was found out that he was the son of Michael Huff.

I met Denise Michelle Riccardi (daughter of Bartholomew Riccardi (deceased) and Grace Lampitelli) around 1995 and we were married September 4, 1998. Austin Hunter Tillia was born May 23, 1998 and Dakota Jordan Tillia was born August 15, 2000. Denise and I were divorced in 2002. I spent a year in Kansas and then went back to Pennsylvania where Courtney and I lived until 2006 when she graduated. Her mother Gayla born April 13, 1966 died October 20, 2005 and was buried in Lutz, Florida. I went to Nashville, Tennessee after Courtney's graduation and Courtney moved back to Florida. In November of 2006 I met Cheryl "Underwood" Woznick and moved to Homer, Georgia, where we were married April 15, 2007. Cecil Chase Tillia was born September 18, 2007. A former Corporate business owner, music Promoter and published author, I am now attempting to once again have my own business while creating a ministry that would work with youth and troubled family's.

Sunday, April 26, 2009

A Knights Tale

I recently found this online and found it very interesting. Several of the names mentioned are in the family lineage and while they might not be direct ancestors they are definitely related to both Cheryl, Cody and Courtney. I was researching this because some of their ancestors had been killed during tournaments. You never know you might just see a name that you recognize in it as well. It is a record of the events at an actual jousting tournament.

Tournament At St. Inglevert.

Froissart: The Tournament at St. Inglevert

At this season, the truce between England and France was punctually observed on sea and land by both parties, excepting a few pillagers in Auvergne, who continued a war against the peasants, on each side the river Dordogne. Their principal leaders, who had surrendered on capitulation, were not openly guilty of any breach of the truce, but secretly encouraged the mischiefs that were daily committed in Auvergne. Such complaints were made of this to the king of France, that he determined, with the advice of his council, to remonstrate with the king of England on the conduct of these pillagers, who, notwithstanding the truce, still carried on a war in Auvergne and the adjoining country, which could not be suffered, neither ought it to be. I believe the king of England excused himself, by saying that those who had committed the acts complained of were lawless people, over whom he had no control.

During the time in which these things were passing, the three knights before mentioned, who had undertaken to maintain the lists against all comers, at Saint Inglevere, near Calais, namely, sir Boucicaut the younger, the lord Reginald de Roye and the lord de Saimpi, were making preparations to fulfil their engagement. This tournament had been proclaimed in many countries, but especially in England, where it had caused much surprise, and excited several knights and squires, who were fond of adventures and deeds of arms, to confer on the subject. Some said they would be blameworthy, if they did not cross the sea, when the distance was so short to Calais, pay a visit to these knights and tilt with them.

I will name those who were most eager in these conversations. The first was sir John Holland, earl of Huntingdon, sir John Courtenay, sir John Traicton, sir John Goulouffre, sir John Roussel, sir Thomas Scorabonne, sir William Cliseton, sir William Clinton, sir William Taillebourg, sir Godfrey de Seton, sir William de Haquenay, sir John Bolton, sir John Arundel, sir John d’Ambreticourt, sir John Beaumont and many more, to the amount of upwards of one hundred knights and squires, who said,---"Let us prepare ourselves to attend this tournament near Calais; for these French knights only hold it that they may have our company: it is well done, and shows they do not want courage: let us not disappoint them!"

This challenge was made so public in England that many who had no intention of taking part themselves, said, they would go thither to witness the performances of others. Such knights and squires as proposed being there, when the appointed term was approaching, sent beforehand their purveyances, and arms for tilting and for war, to Calais. Sir John Holland, half brother to the king of England, was the first to cross the sea: more than sixty knights and squires accompanied him, and took up their quarters in Calais.

At the beginning of the charming month of May, the three before-mentioned young French knights were fully prepared to maintain their challenge in the lists at Saint Inglevere. They first came to Boulogne, where I know not how many days they tarried, and then went to the monastery of Saint Inglevere. On their arrival, they learnt that numbers of English knights and squires were come to Calais. This gave them much pleasure; and to hasten the business, and that news should be carried to the English, they ordered three rich vermilion-coloured pavilions to be pitched near the appointed place for the lists, and before each were suspended two targets, for peace or war, emblazoned with the arms of each lord. It was ordered, that such as were desirous of performing any deed of arms should touch, or send to have touched, one or both of. these targets according to their pleasure,. and they would be tilted with agreeably to their request.

On the 21st of the month of May, as it had been proclaimed, the three knights were properly armed and their horses ready saddled according to the laws of the tournament.

On the same day, those knights who were in Calais sallied forth, either as spectators or tilters, and, being arrived at the spot, drew up on one side. The place of the tournament was smooth, and green with grass.

Sir John Holland was the first who sent his squire to touch the war-target of sir Boucicaut, who instantly issued from his pavilion completely armed. Having mounted his horse, and grasped his spear, which was stiff and well steeled, they took their distances. When the two knights had for a short time eyed each other, they spurred their horses and met full gallop with such force that sir Boucicaut pierced the shield of the earl of Huntingdon, and the point of his lance slipped along his arm, but without wounding him. The two knights, having passed, continued their gallop to the end of the list. This course was much praised. At the second course, they hit each other slightly, but no harm was done; and their horses refused, to complete the third. The earl of Huntingdon, who wished to continue the tilt, and was heated, returned to his place, expecting that sir Boucicaut would call for his lance; but he did not, and showed plainly he would not that day tilt more with the earl.

Sir John Holland, seeing this, sent his squire to touch the war-target of the lord de Saimpi. This knight, who was waiting for the combat, sallied out from his pavilion, and took his lance and shield. When the earl saw he was ready, he violently spurred his horse, as did the lord de Saimpi. They couched their lances, and pointed them at each other. At the onset, their horses crossed; notwithstanding which, they met; but by this crossing, which was blamed, the earl was unhelmed. He returned to his people, who soon re-helmed him; and, having resumed their lances, they met full gallop, and hit each other with such force in the middle of their shields, that they would have been unhorsed had they not kept tight seats by the pressure of their legs against the horses’ sides. They went to the proper places, where they refreshed themselves and took breath.

Sir John Holland, who had a great desire to shine at this tournament, had his helmet braced and grasped his spear again; when the lord de Saimpi, seeing him advance on a gallop, did not decline meeting, but, spurring his horse on instantly, they gave blows on their helmets, that were luckily of well-tempered steel, which made sparks of fire fly from them. At this course, the lord de Saimpi lost his helmet; hut the two knights continued their career, and returned to their places.

This tilt was much praised; and the English and French said, that the earl of Huntingdon, sir Boucicaut, and the lord de Saimpi, had excellently well justed, without sparing or doing themselves any damage. The earl wished to break another lance in honour of his lady; but it was refused him. He then quitted the lists, to make room for others, for he had run his six lances with such ability and courage as gained him praise from all sides.

A young and gallant knight of England next came forth, called the earl-marshal, who sent, according to the regulations, to touch the war-target of sir Reginald de Roye. This being done, sir Reginald came from his pavilion completely armed, and mounted his horse that was ready for him: having had his shield and helmet buckled on, he seized his lance and took his distance. The two knights spurred their horses, but, at this first course, failed in their strokes, from their horses swerving out of the line, to their great vexation. Sir Reginald was hit with the second lance, and had his own broken. At the third course, they met with such force that the fire sparkled from their helmets, and the earl was unhelmed. He continued his career to his own place, but justed no more that day, as he had done sufficiently.

The lord Clifford, a valiant knight, and cousin-german to the late sir John Chandos, of famed renown, then advanced, and sent to have the war-shield of sir Boucicaut touched with a rod. Sir Boucicaut instantly appeared, and, having his armour laced, mounted his horse: placing his lance in its rest, they met full gallop, and made, by their blows, the fire fly from their helmets, but they neither broke their lances nor lost their stirrups: having passed, they returned to their places, making ready for the second course. This was done without anyway sparing themselves: sir Boucicaut broke his lance and was unhelmed, but did not for this fall to the ground. Lord Clifford returned to his place, to prepare himself for another course, but sir Boucicaut did not again put on his helmet.

Lord Clifford, noticing this, resolved to perform a tilt with another knight, and sent his squire to touch the shield of the lord de Saimpi. The lord de Saimpi being ready, sallied forth from his pavilion; they ran at each other with great force, met full, and lord Clifford broke his lance into three pieces against the target of his adversary. In return, the lord de Saimpi struck off his helmet, and both continued their career to their places. The lord Clifford tilted no more that day, for the spectators said he had honourably and valorously borne himself.

Sir Henry Beaumont then came forward, and sent to have the target of sir Boucicaut touched, who was instantly ready to reply to the call, having not dismounted from the tilts with lord Clifford. The lord Beaumont did not manage his lance well, and hit Boucicaut on the side; but sir Boucicaut struck him so full on the middle of his shield that it drove him to the ground, and continued his course. Lord Beaumont was raised up by his attendants and remounted. The lord de Saimpi then presented himself, and they tilted two courses very handsomely without hurt to either.

Sir Peter (Piers) Courtenay, who was anxious to engage and to run six lances, sent a squire to touch with a rod the three shields of war. This caused a good deal of surprise, and he was asked what were his intentions by so doing. He replied, that he wished to tilt with each of the French knights two lances, if no misfortune befel him, and he entreated they would comply with his request. They were ready to consent to it, and sir Reginald de Roye first offered himself. Having made themselves ready, they spurred their horses, and took good aim not to miss their stroke; but, from the restiveness of their horses, they failed. They were much vexed, and returned to their places. On the second course, they met full gallop; and sir Reginald de Roye, having unhelmed his adversary, returned gently towards his pavilion, his two courses being completed.

Sir Peter Courtenay being armed once more, the lord de Saimpi advanced, and their lances were broken at the first shock: they continued their course, when new lances were given them. They advanced towards each other furiously, and the lord de Saimpi hit sir Peter, whose horse swerved a little; but sir Peter struck off his helmet, and rode on at a gentle pace to his post.

Sir Boucicaut now came to complete the two other courses; and at their onset they struck each other on the shield so rudely that the two horses were suddenly checked in their career: no other damage ensued. At the second course, they were both unhelmed. When these six tilts were done, sir Peter requested, as a favour, to run one more with any of the three knights who pleased, but it was refused; and he was told, that he had done enough that day.

An English knight, called sir John Gouloufre, came forth, armed from head to foot, and sent his squire to touch the war-shield of sir Reginald de Roye. The knight obeyed the summons, and both advanced full gallop. They hit each other’s helmets, but were neither unhelmed nor had their lances broken. Their horses refused to run the second course, to their great vexation. At the third tilt they struck their shields and broke their lances. They were supplied with others, and, from the swerving of their horses, passed their fourth career without striking a blow. The fifth lance was too well employed, for they were both unhelmed, and then each rode to his own party.

Sir John Rousseau, an expert and valiant knight from England, but well known for his prowess in various countries, ordered his squire to touch the shield of the lord de Saimpi, who was already armed and mounted. On receiving his lance, he spurred his horse against the English knight, and the shock of their spears against the targets instantly forced them to stop. Each returned to his post, and it was not long before they commenced their second course with equal vigour: but when near, the horses swerved, which prevented their stroke. To their sorrow, they were thus obliged to return again to the end of the lists. They were more successful the third course; for they struck each other with such force, that the vizors of their helmets were broken off: the knights continued their career, and the Englishman tilted no more that day.

Sir Peter Shirborne, a young knight, but of good courage, sent his squire to touch the war-shield of sir Boucicaut. The knight was ready to answer him, for he was armed and on horseback, leaning on his spear, to wait for an adventure. Perceiving himself called upon, he raised his spear, and looked to see what his adversary was about, and observing that he was handling his horse, did the same. When they began their course, they couched their spears, thinking to make sure blows; but they were disappointed, to their great vexation, by the swerving of their horses, which forced them to return to their posts. They determined to manage them better at their second tilt, and spurred them both so vigorously, they each struck the other on the vizor. Sir Boucicaut broke his lance, but not so the English knight; for he employed it with such force, that he not only unhelmed, but made the blood spout from his nose as he broke off the helmet of sir Boucicaut, who then retired to his pavilion: he tilted no more that day, for it was now nearly vespers.

Sir Peter Shirborne, however, would not desist until he had completed his number of lances: he, in consequence, sent his squire to touch the war-target of the lord de Saimpi, who was prepared to meet him. The two knights spurred on violently against each other, and hit on the top of their helmets; but the lances slipt over, and they passed each other without hurt. The spectators said, had their spears been pointed lower, and the shields received the blows, one or both must have suffered severely from the shock. The next course, they struck full on their targets, and broke their lances into three parts; but the blow of the lord de Saimpi was so strong that the English knight lost his seat and fell to the ground, from whence, however, he instantly arose, and was led by his attendants from the lists.

The lord de Saimpi returned to his post, viewing the state of his adversary, and showing his willingness to renew the tilt with him he had overthrown or with any other; but none came forward, as it was now time to leave off for this day, and return to their hôtels. The English, and such as had accompanied them, set off full gallop for Calais, where they remained that night enjoying themselves, and talking over the feats of arms that had been performed. The French retired to Saint Inglevere; and, if the English talked much of what had been done, you may readily suppose the French were not silent.

On Tuesday, after mass and drinking a cup, all those who intended to tilt, and those who wished to see them, left Calais, and rode in an orderly manner to where the lists had been held the preceding day. The French were already there, as was right, and prepared to receive them. The day was bright, clear, and sufficiently warm. The English drew up on one side, and armed those who were to tilt.

Sir William Clifton, a very valiant and expert knight, was the first who sent his squire to touch the shield of sir Boucicaut: the knight instantly came forth, armed completely for the tournament, mounted his horse, and grasped his lance. The two knights met full gallop, hitting each on the target, but passed on without anything more. The second course was very handsome: they met, and hit each on the helmet, the lances crossing. The third course they struck again their shields, and with such violence that the horses were stopped. The fourth course with lances was gallantly performed, for they hit each other so strongly on the vizors of their helmets, they were driven off by the blow to different sides. The English knight tilted no more that day, for he was told he had done enough.

After this, sir Nicholas Clinton, a young English knight, sent to touch the target of the lord de Saimpi, who immediately appeared ready armed and mounted. The two knights spurred their horses, bearing their spears in good array: when near, they struck their opponent’s target with such violence that the steel remained fixed; and it is wonderful no other harm ensued, for they were both young, of good courage, and did not spare themselves. They neither fell nor were wounded, but their lances were shivered to pieces. They then passed on, each to his post. The second course was well tilted: they struck each on the helmets, but, as it was on the top, they did no damage, and passed on. At the third course with lances, the horses swerved, to their sorrow; and, at the fourth, the lord de Saimpi unhelmed the English knight, who returned to his countrymen and. tilted no more, for they assured him he had behaved most valiantly, and that he must allow others to have their share.

When sir Nicholas Clinton was returned from the lists, a gallant knight of England, nearly related to the earl of Huntingdon, called William Seimort, left his tent, and sent to touch the target of sir Reginald de Roye, who appeared to meet him. Each having taken his post, they vigorously spurred their horses, and gave such blows on their shields, that it was surprising they were not unhorsed; but both kept their seats, as they rode well. They passed on to their places; but the English knight let fall his lance, and sir Reginald bore his in handsome array.

The English knight having had his lance given to him, he placed it in its rest, and spurring his horse, intended to have done wonders. Indeed the blow would have been good if it had been straight, but, by the swerving of his horse, it was very weak; and I doubt if it were not, in some measure, the fault of the knight. Sir Reginald struck him such a blow on the shield, as made him bend backward, but they passed on without further hurt. Being prepared for the third course, they again spurred their horses and couched their lances, and hit each other so rudely on the helmets that the fire sparkled from them. They passed on, but from this blow their lances fell to the ground: persons were at hand to pick them up and give them to the knights. Having replaced the lances in their rests, they renewed the tilt, and, aiming well, struck each other on the vizors of their helmets so severely, that sir William Seimort was unhelmed and nearly thrown to the ground, but, though he staggered, he kept his seat. The English knight then went to his countrymen, and did nothing more that day.

A squire called Lancaster now stepped forth, and sent to touch the shield of sir Boucicaut. He was ready mounted to answer the call, and, having grasped his spear, they met most courageously: they struck their helmets, so as to make the fire fly from them, and it was astonishing they kept them on their heads. No harm being done, each returned to his post, where they made no long stay before they began their second course with great vigour, each hitting on his opponent’s target: the horses swerved, which prevented this from being a handsome or effectual tilt, but this they could not help. At the third lance they met, and the blow was so well placed, that the Englishman was unhelmed, and passed on to his post bareheaded all but the scull-cap, and would not that day tilt more.

A young knight whose name was sir John Tallboys, next made his appearance, completely armed, and sent to touch the war-target of the lord de Saimpi. That knight was ready for the tilt, and, having grasped his spear, stuck spurs into his horse: their first onset was so rough, their lances were shivered. The two knights passed each other without other damage, and were not long before they began their second course, having received new lances, of which there was a provision ready, all of the same length. From the fault of their horses, though they aimed well, they missed hitting; but the third course was well performed, for they unhelmed each other, and then each retired to his own party, and the English knight did nothing more that day.

Sir Godfrey de Seca next presented himself: he was a gallant knight, and showed, by his manner of riding and bearing his lance, that he was an able tilter, and desirous of renown. He sent his squire to touch the war-target of sir Reginald de Roye. That knight came forward instantly, as he was ready mounted, and, placing himself properly for the tilt, they both set off full gallop, and gave such blows on their targets that though their spears, from their strength, did not break, they remained fastened to the shields, and by dint of hard pushing, the horses were checked: each knight returned to his post without losing his lance, but bearing it handsomely before him. Having placed them in their rests they again spurred their horses, which were strong and active, but by their swerving they missed their stroke and dropped their spears. Those near picked them up and returned them, and again they renewed the tilt; for they were heated, and seemed unwilling to spare each other. The English knight hit sir Reginald a very severe blow on the top of his helmet, without otherwise damaging him; but sir Reginald gave him so strong a thrust on the target, (for at that time he was counted one of the stoutest tilters in France, and was smitten with love for a young lady that made all his affairs prosper) it pierced through it as well as his left arm: the spear broke as it entered, the butt end falling to the ground, the other sticking in the shield, and the steel in the arm. The knight, however, did not for this fail to finish his course gallantly; but his companions came to him, and the broken spear and steel were extracted, the blood stanched, and the arm tied up. Sir Reginald returned to his friends, and there remained, leaning on another lance that had been given him, Sir Reginald was much praised by the French and English for this tilt; and no one said anything improper against him, on account of the Englishman being wounded, for such are the events of arms: to one they are fortunate, to another the reverse; and, to say the truth, they did not spare each other.

An English squire, called Blaquet, then sent to strike the war-shield of the lord de Saimpi. When they were both ready, they spurred their horses, and hit on the helmets hard blows, though the points of their spears slipped off: on finishing their career, they lost their lances. When they were restored. to them, they began their second course, but, by the fault of their horses, nothing was done. At the third onset, Blaquet gave the lord de Saimpi a hard blow on the helmet, but was struck by him much harder on the vizor, and unhelmed, with a force that broke the buckle which fastened it behind, and it fell on the ground. They finished their course, and the English squire went among his countrymen, not intending to tilt more that day. The lord de Saimpi remained gallantly on horseback, leaning on his spear, to wait until he should be again called upon.

Sir John Bolton, a gallant knight from England, shortly after this tilt was over, sent his squire to touch the shield of the lord de Saimpi, who, being prepared, entered the lists, his target on his neck and spear in hand. Each hit his adversary’s shield, and it was surprising they were not pierced, for their lances were strong, and their heads well tempered; but they passed without further loss than of their spears, which fell to the ground. When they were picked up and given them, they again spurred their horses, and struck the helmets, but without effect, and continued their career. At the third course their horses crossed. The lord de Saimpi, at the fourth, unhelmed sir John Bolton, by a hard blow, and. then the two knights returned to their friends.

Thomelin Messidon, a young English knight, well and richly armed, with a great desire to gain honour, sent to touch the shield of sir Boucicaut. The knight instantly came forth, and, having grasped his lance, both spurred their horses; and each made his stroke by crossing under the helmet: they passed on without hurt or blame, but were not long before they spurred on again. In this course, they hit very roughly on the targets; Thomelin Messidon shivered his lance; but sir Boucicaut’s blow was so severe, it drove his opponent over the crupper of his horse to the ground. Those of his party ran to raise him up, and carried him off, for he tilted no more that day.

Another squire of England, called Navarton, instantly stepped forth, and sent to touch the war-shield of sir Boucicaut, saying he would revenge his companion, whom he had struck to the ground in his presence. Boucicaut was ready to answer him, being armed and mounted, and leaning on his spear. They met full gallop, and hit each other on the vizors of their helmets, but passed on without other damage. Having had their helmets re-adjusted, and their lances given them, they again met with great violence, and from the shock of the blows on the targets, the horses were stopped, and the lances broken into three pieces, but they completed their course without any hurt. They had new spears given them; and at the third course sir Boucicaut was hit hard on the target, but he gave Navarton a blow that unhelmed him: he then withdrew to his countrymen, and tilted no more that day; for they said he had done sufficient, and had gained great applause.

After this, another squire advanced, called Sequaqueton, an able man at arms and expert tilter. He sent to touch the shield of sir Reginald de Roye, who replied, that he was prepared and mounted. They spurred their horses, and gave violent strokes on their targets, without sparing each other. Sequaqueton bore himself handsomely without falling, to the surprise of the spectators, for sir Reginald’s blow made him bend backward almost on the crupper of his horse; but he raised himself, and gallantly finished his career with the loss only of his lance. Having received another, they ran the second tilt with great courage, and struck such blows on their helmets as made the fire fly from them. It was a handsome course, and no damage done. They repaired to their posts, and spurred again for the third time. In this tilt, Sequaqueton was severely unhelmed, and on the point of falling, both himself and horse, for he staggered considerably. The squire, when on his feet, returned to his companions and tilted no more: indeed, there was an end to the whole for the day, as it was now late. The English collected together, and returned to Calais, as did the French to St. Inglevere.

You must know, though I have not before made mention of it, that king Charles of France was present at these justs. Being young, and desirous of witnessing extraordinary sights, he would have been much vexed if he had not seen these tournaments. He was therefore present at the early part and latter end of them, attended only by the lord de Garencieres; but both so disguised that nobody knew of it; and they returned every evening to Marquise.

The ensuing day, Wednesday, was as fine as the foregoing; and the English, who had crossed the sea to take part in or view this tournament, mounted their horses, at the same hour as on the preceding day, and rode to the place appointed for the lists, to the delight of the French, who were rejoiced to see them. It was not long after their arrival when an English squire, a good tilter, called John Savage, squire of honour and of the body to the earl of Huntingdon, sent to touch the shield of sir Reginald de Roye. The knight answered, he was ready and willing to satisfy him. When he had mounted his horse, and had his helmet buckled and lance given to him, they set off full gallop, and gave such blows, on the targets, that had the spears not broken, one or both must have fallen to the ground. This course was handsome and dangerous; but the knights received no hurt, though the points of the lances passed through the targets, and slipped off their side-armour. The spears were broken about a foot from the shaft, the points remaining in the shields; and they gallantly bore the shafts before them, as they finished their career. The spectators thought they must have been seriously wounded; and the French and English hastened each to their companion, whom, to their joy, they found unhurt.

They were told they had done enough for that day but John Savage was not satisfied, and said he had not crossed the sea for only one tilt with a lance. This was reported to sir Reginald, who replied,—” He is in the right; and it is but just that he should be gratified, either by me or by one of my companions.” When they had rested themselves a while, and received new lances, they began their second course, each aiming well at the other; but they failed, from the swerving of their horses, to their great vexation, and returned to their posts. Their lances, which had been accidentally dropped, were given to them, and they set off on their third course. This time they hit on the vizors of their helmets; and, by the force and crossing of their lances, both were unhelmed as they passed. The tilt was much applauded for its correctness and vigour. When they were returned to their posts, the English told John Savage, that he had very honourably performed, and that it was now time for him to make way for others to tilt as well as himself. He complied with this, and, laying aside his lance and target, dismounted, and rode on a hackney to witness the performances of others.

An English squire, named William Basquenay, cousin to the earl marshal, came forth fully armed for the occasion, and sent to have the war-shield of sir Boucicaut stricken. The knight instantly made his appearance at the end of the lists, and each galloped towards the other as straight as they could. They struck their helmets gallantly; and the blow was so effectual on the vizors that they were both unhelmed, and continued their course without further hurt. Their friends who were near re-adjusted their armours; and, giving them their spears, they commenced their second course by desperate strokes on their targets; but, the lances breaking, no harm was done, and they continued their career. They were supplied with new lances, that were stout and good; but, from the fault of their horses, they missed their strokes. At the fourth lance, they hit; and William Basquenay was unhelmed a second time, and then returned to his companions, not tilting more that day.

A squire from England, whose name was John Scot, sent to have the war-shield of the lord de Saimpi touched. He immediately appeared, and at their onset they gave such blows on their targets as stopped their horses but, their lances being strong, they neither broke nor fell out of their hands. The second course was well performed: the lord de Saimpi hit his adversary; but Scot had, more success in unhelming him, for which he was much applauded by his countrymen. The lord de Saimpi was soon re-helmed; and, grasping his spear, they spurred against each other with great violence. They placed their blows on their targets, but with a force that drove John Scot out of his saddle to the ground, and thus did the lord de Saimpi revenge himself. The squire was raised, and carried off by his companions.

Bernard Stapleton, an English squire, sent to strike the lord de Saimpi’s shield, who was not dismounted from his last tilt. They met, and hit each other on the helmets so forcibly as to make the sparks fly from them; but they passed on without hurt and returned to their posts. Still grasping their spears, they couched them, and at this second course struck very severe blows on their targets, but kept their seats well, without falling or staggering, to the end of’ their career. The third lance struck the helmets, and both were unhelmed. The English squire returned from the lists, as his friends told him he had acquitted himself with honour.

The next that presented himself was a young gay knight from England, who shone in tournaments, in dancing, and in singing, called sir John Arundel. He sent his squire to touch the war-shield of sir Reginald de Roye. The knight replied, that he wished for nothing more agreeable than to tilt with him. Having received their spears, they galloped off at the same moment, and gave and received hard blows on their shields; but they kept their seats handsomely, and continued their career. Their lances having fallen from their hands, were restored to them by those appointed for that purpose; and they began their second course with blows on the helmets that made the fire fly, but they passed on without further hurt. At the third onset, the horses swerved; and the knights, in their attempt to strike, lost their lances, and with difficulty recovered themselves. At the fourth they struck the helmets, but without harm or unhelming. At the fifth course, they hit each other on the targets, and broke their lances, without any other damage. Sir John Arundel completed his career, and returned to his friends.

After this, Nicholas Stone, an English squire, sent to touch the war-shield of sir Boucicaut. The knight seizing his lance, they spurred against each other and hit on the helmets; but the spears slipped off, and they passed unhurt. Holding still their lances in the rests, they set off again, and hit so hard on the targets, that the horses staggered with the shock, and the knights dropped their spears. When they had received their lances, they again galloped off full speed, and their blows on the helmets were effectual: at least the English squire lost his helmet and retired, for his friends said he had done enough.

Another squire from England, called John Marshal, advanced to the lists, completely armed, and sent to touch the war-target of sir Boucicaut, who replied, he was ready, and waiting to be called upon. At their first course they hit each other on the targets, but the lances fell to the ground, and they returned to their stations without other damage. On their being restored, they continued their tilt, and struck hard blows on the helmets without anything more, and pursued their career, bearing their lances handsomely before them. When they had rested a little, they considered how they could best annoy each other, and, having aimed well, spurred on their horses. John Marshal gave such a thrust on Boucicaut’s shield that his lance was broken to the stump, and Boucicaut’s blow unhelmed his opponent, and drove, him on the crupper of his horse. The squire, notwithstanding, completed his course without falling, and then went to his companions, who said he ought now to be satisfied, for that he had well performed.

When the squire had withdrawn, a young and frisky English knight advanced, who was eager to gain renown. His name was sir John Cliseton, and he bore for arms a field argent, fretted azure, with a mullet argent in chief. He sent his squire to touch the war-shield of sir Reginald de Roye, who was much pleased at the summons. Having taken their stations and received their lances, they spurred their horses and hit each other full on the helmets, but passed and completed their career. They kept their lances in the rests, and were not long before they commenced the second course, in which they gave heavy thrusts on their shields, but without any loss, except of their spears, which fell to the ground. Having received their lances, they hit each other, on the third course, such blows on the tops of the helmets as made the fire fly. At the fourth course their horses swerved, to their great disappointment. The fifth was well performed, for each broke his lance. The two knights grew warm, and plainly showed they were desirous of trying each other’s valour to the utmost. When at their stations they had fresh lances given to them, that were stiff enough; and, after a short delay, they again spurred their horses, and laid in such blows on the helmets that both were unhelmed. This course was greatly praised by all present, and when they had completed their career, they returned to their countrymen; for the English knight tilted no more that day.

When this was finished, a squire from England, called Roger Lamb, whose arms were a cross gules, on a field argent and sable quartered, came forward, handsomely equipped and gaily sent to touch the war-target of the Lord de Saimpi. The knight instantly obeyed the call, and by his alacrity showed he preferred tilting to remaining idle. On the first onset, they checked their horses, by the force of their blows on their shields; but the lances, being strong, did not break, and they continued their course. On the second tilt, they hit the helmets hard enough ; but, as the points of their lances grazed off, no harm was done. Roger Lamb was unhelmed at the third course, and returned to his countrymen without doing more that day.

After this a gallant knight from that part of Hainault called Ostrevant, a good man at arms and able tilter, offered himself. He had been educated in England at the court of king Edward, and his name was sir John d’Ambreticourt, and brother to that excellent knight, sir Eustace d’Ambreticourt. He bore for his arms ermine two bars humetty gules, each charged with three escallop shells argent. The knight was well equipped for the tournament, and sent one of his squires to touch the war-target of sir Reginald de Roye. Having taken their stations, they eyed each other well, and spurring their horses, gave such blows on the shields as made sparks of fire fly from them, and the horses to bend under them. The tilt was handsome, for no harm was done, and they continued the career. They were not long before they ran their second course, and again hit on the shields. It was wonderful that this was not attended with mischief, for they were both strong and courageous tilters, fearless of death or danger. The shock of this attack was so great that their horses were forced on their haunches, and the two knights staggered. Nevertheless they continued their career, but with the loss of their lances. Having received their lances, they ran their third course, and sir John d’Ambreticourt unhelmed sir Reginald de Roye so as to injure him very considerably, and to terminate his career. Sir Reginald went to his party, and plainly showed he would not tilt more that day.

When sir John d’Ambreticourt perceived this, as he had a great delight in tilting, he sent to touch the war-shield of sir Boucicaut, who instantly advanced to the lists. Having had his target buckled on, and placed his spear in the rest, they spurred against each other, and gave such blows on the shield that it was surprising they were not pierced through; but this might be owing to the swerving of the horses. When returned to their stations, they did not remain long before they commenced their second course with vigour, and hit each other hard on the helmets; but the spears slipped off, and they continued their career. The knights having lost their spears, they were brought to them by their squires, and they renewed the tilt. This time they were both very severely unhelmed, and gallantly finished their course.

The English now collected together, as evening was approaching, and returned to Calais, where they passed the night in talking over the different feats of arms that had been that day performed. The French amused themselves in like manner at Saint Inglevere.

On Thursday morning, the fourth day of the tournament, the English found that there were yet many knights and squires who had not entered the lists, and who had purposely come from England; they therefore said, that all who had any intentions to tilt should do so, otherwise they would not be handsomely treated. The lords of England had agreed to return to Saint Inglevere on the Thursday, for those who pleased to perform their justs: in consequence, they left Calais after mass, and, on arriving at the lists, found the three French knights ready in their pavilions to answer all who might call on them, attended by those that were to serve them and such as came to witness the deeds of arms.

An English knight, called sir Godfrey d’Estas, was the first who entered the lists: he bore for arms a lion sable on a field or, with three bars gules, and charged with a mullet or, on the dexter paw of a lion, and was completely and gaily armed. He sent a squire to touch the war-shield of sir Boucicaut, who instantly advanced from his pavilion prepared to obey the summons. Having received their spears and bucklers and eyed each other for a short time, they spurred on their horses, and both struck violent blows on the helmets; but, as the points of their lances slipped off, they continued their course to their stations. Keeping the lances in the rests, they recommenced the tilt, and met with such force on their bucklers, that had not their spears broken, much mischief might have ensued. When they had rested a while and had new lances, they ran a third course with great violence, and hit the vizors so fairly and well, that both were unhelmed; they continued their career, and then retired to their own people. The English knight did nothing more this day, for he was told that he had performed well, and must give way to others.

Alain Bourch, an able and expert English squire, sent to touch the war-target of the lord de Saimpi, who came from his pavilion in obedience to the call. They gave blows on their helmets, at the first onset, that made the fire sparkle, but no other harm was done. At the second tilt, their lances met on their bucklers with such force as shivered them in pieces, but they continued their career unhurt. They were quickly supplied with new lances; and, spurring on the third time, they placed their thrusts so well and strong that they were both unhelmed, and completed their course: the Englishman retired to his countrymen, to allow others to show their skill and valour.

An English squire, called John Storpt, sent to touch the target of sir Boucicaut, who issued forth out of his pavilion, and his horse being ready, mounted him, and entered the lists. They failed in their first course, from the fault of their horses. When they returned to their stations, they were not long before they ran the second; and, although they gave each other severe blows on the helmet, no mischief ensued. At the third course, John Scrope was forcibly struck to the ground; whence he was raised by his friends, and did no more that day.

A Bohemian knight now advanced, who was of the household of the queen of England, called sir Herchauce. He was esteemed a strong and expert tilter, and bore for his arms three griffins’ feet sable on a shield argent ongle with azure. When he entered the lists, he was asked which of the three knights he wished to tilt with: he replied, “With Boucicaut."

On this, an English squire was sent, according to the regulations, to touch sir Boucicaut's war-target. The knight, having kept himself prepared for any summons, left his pavilion, and, having fastened his buckler and grasped his lance, entered the lists. His opponent was then ready to meet him; and spurring their horses, they thought to give full strokes; but it was not so, from the ill conduct of the Bohemian knight, for which be was greatly blamed. He had, out of the line of tilting, hit sir Boucicaut on the helmet, and continued his career: for this impropriety, of which the English saw him guilty, he had forfeited his arms and horse, should the French insist upon them.

The French and English held a long conversation on this ill-placed stroke; but at last the French knights pardoned it, the better to please the English. Herchauce begged as a favour that he might be permitted to run only one course more. On being asked “With which of the three knights" he sent to touch the target of sir Reginald de Roye. That knight was waiting in his pavilion, not having tilted that day, and declared his willingness to accommodate sir Herchauce, since his request had been granted. Sir Reginald mounted his horse, and having had his buckler fastened, and his lance given him, he eyed his opponent, that he might well point his stroke. Both spurred their horses at the same moment, and hit in the shields; but sir Reginald (who was one of the firmest and best tilters in France) thrust with such force as made the Bohemian fly out of his saddle, and fall so severely on the ground that the spectators imagined he was killed. Sir Reginald continued his course to his own station. Sir Herchauce was raised with much difficulty by his attendants, and carried to the English, who were well pleased at what had happened to him, for the uncourteous manner in which be had run his first course. He had not any desire to tilt more that day.

The next who came forward was Robin Seorneborne, an able and gay squire from England. He sent to touch the war-target of the lord de Saimpi, who was ready mounted and prepared to answer him. At their first course they hit their helmets, and continued their career. At the next, they struck their bucklers, but unsuccessfully, as before, excepting the loss of their lances. Having received them again, they, on the third onset, placed their thrusts so ably and forcibly on the vizors, that both were unhelmed, and finished their course. The English squire returned to his companions, and was idle during the rest of the day.

Another English squire, called John Merlan, now advanced. He bore for arms a bend sable on a field argent, charged with three lion-heads sable, and sent to touch the war-target of sir Reginald de Roye. The knight answered, he was at his service. Having entered the lists, they at the first onset gave violent blows on the helmets, but without any effect, and, by firmly holding their lances, returned to their stations without loss of any kind. The second course, their spears met on their bucklers, and the horses were checked; having thrown down their lances, they continued their career, each to his station, and made ready to tilt well the third lance. When their spears had been given them, they set off full gallop, and sir :Reginald hit John Merlan a blow on his buckler, which forced him out of the saddle to the ground. He continued his course to his station, and the Englishman was raised and carried to his countrymen.

John Mouton, another squire from England, next offered himself. He bore for arms a. chevron sable on a field gules, three pierced mullets or, with an indented bordure sable, and sent to strike the war-shield of sir Boucicaut, who replied, he was always ready to tilt. Their first strokes met on their bucklers, but without damage. It was not their fault, for the blows were well placed, and they gallantly passed, bearing their lances before them, to their stations. They were not long before they commenced their second tilt, and hit very severely on the helmets, but without loss, excepting their lances, and returned to their posts. Those who were appointed to gather the lances that fell, instantly presented them to the knights, who renewed the tilt; but at this third course sir Boucicaut unhelmed John Mouton, who retired to his companions.

A very handsome knight from England now came forth: he was well armed at all points, and kept an excellent position on his horse, and was called sir Jaquemin Strop. He sent to touch the war-target of the lord de Saimpi, who, being mounted and armed before his pavilion, advanced to the lists. At their first course, they missed their stroke, from their horses running out of the line, which vexed them much. They were not long before they again set of full gallop, and, when they met, gave such blows on the helmets as made them strike fire: they passed on without loss but of their spears. As soon as they were returned to their stations, their lances were brought them, and after a short delay, they began their third course. They both hit with great force on the bucklers: but sir James Scrope’s lance broke, while sir Reginald unhorsed his opponent and continued his career. Sir James was raised from the ground by his attendants, and did no more that day.

Another English knight, called sir William Masquelee, was ready to enter the lists, and to engage with whoever pleased; for he had crossed the sea with the earl of Huntingdon in this view. He sent to touch the war-target of sir Boucicaut, who had his buckler fastened, and instantly advanced to meet his adversary. They both at the same moment spurred their horses, which were fresh and eager to begin the course; for the very instant they felt the points, they bounded forward. The two knights took good aim, and mutually gave such strokes on their helmets that fire sparkled from them; and, though the points of the lances slipped off, the tilt was much praised by all present. They continued their career to their different stations, but did not make any long stay before they again spurred their horses and couched their spears, for they did not drop them, and met with such violence, that their lances must have pierced the bucklers, if the horses had not swerved. They finished their course, throwing down their lances, and completed their career like good tilters, in excellent array to their posts. Having received their spears, they set off as fast as their horses could carry them, and, on their meeting, hit the vizors of the helmets severely. The tilt was loudly applauded, for they were both unhelmed, and bare-headed all but the scull-caps: they finished their career, and then returned to their friends, for they had excellently performed.

An English squire called Nicholas Lamb, well and elegantly armed, advanced, having a great desire to try his skill in arms, He sent to strike the war-target of the lord de Saimpi, who was already mounted and armed, in front of his pavilion, with his buckler on his breast, blazoned with his arms. He grasped his spear, and flew to the lists with the eagerness of a hawk to seize his prey. The English squire did the same, and, setting off at full speed, they gave such blows on their bucklers, that their lances were shivered it was fortunate they broke, or the knights must have been greatly hurt, or unhorsed, but they kept their seats firmly. When returned to their stations, they were supplied with new lances and with them, at the second course, made the fire fly from their helmets: no other damage was done, for the spears had crossed, and they continued their career to their posts. After a short rest, they commenced their third tilt, and had well examined where they could best place their thrusts. This was gallantly performed; for they hit, justly, the upper parts of the helmets, and the points of the lances entered: both were so neatly unhelmed, that the lacings burst, and the helmets flew over the cruppers of their horses on the field. The knights kept their seats and completed their course in handsome array, and then returned to their countrymen.

The tournament was now at an end, for no more tilters appeared on the part of the English. The earl of Huntingdon, the earl-marshal, the lord Clifford; the lord Beaumont, sir John Clifton, sir John d’Ambreticourt, sir Peter Sherburne, and all those knights who had tilted the preceding days,. then waited in a body on the French knights, and thanked them warmly for the amusements they had given them. They said,—”All the knights who have accompanied us having now tilted, we take our leave of you, and return to Calais on our way to England. We know well that whoever may wish to try their skill in arms ‘will find you here for thirty days according to your proclamation. On our return to England, we shall loudly speak of your gallantry, and tell all those who may inquire of these deeds of arms to come and witness them in person.” “Many thanks,” replied the three knights: “they shall be made welcome, and delivered by deeds of arms as you have been; and we desire you will accept our best acknowledgments for the courtesy you have shown us.”

In such friendly manner did the English and French knights separate, in the plain of St. Inglevere: the first took the road to Calais, but made no long stay; for on the Saturday morning they embarked on hoard passage-boats, and landed at Dover about mid-day, when each retired to his inn. They staid the whole of Saturday, and Sunday until after mass, at Dover; where having refreshed themselves and their horses, they continued their journey to Rochester, and there lay that night: on the morrow they arrived at London, when they separated, and each returned to his home. The three French knights before named kept their engagements valiantly at St. Inglevere. When the English knights were gone, the king of France and the lord de Garencieres, who had witnessed the tournament in disguise, returned to their inn at Marquise; and on the morrow, at break of day, they set out for Paris, and never ceased riding until they came to Creil on the river Oise, where at that time the queen of France resided. Scarcely any one knew that the king was present at these tilts, but his confidential valets-de-chambre.

From the time the English left Calais, I never heard that any others came from England to St. Inglevere to try their skill in arms. The three knights, however, remained there until the thirty days were fully accomplished, and then leisurely returned each to his home. When they waited on the king of France, the duke of Touraine and other lords at Paris, they were most handsomely received. Indeed, they were entitled to such reception, for they had gallantly behaved themselves, and well supported the honour of the king and of the realm of France.

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Eleanor of Province


Eleanor of Provence (c. 1223 – 24/25 June 1291) was Queen Consort to Henry III King of England. The second eldest daughter to Ramon Berenguer IV, Count of Province and Beatrice of Savoy. All four of their daughters would marry Kings and Eleanor like her mother, grandmother and sisters was known for her beauty. She was a dark haired brunette with fair eyes. Only twelve years old when she arrived in England for her marriage she had never seen Henry prior to their wedding day on January 14 1236 nor had she ever stepped foot in his kingdom before. The wedding was held at Canterbury Cathedral and according to the records she was dressed in a shimmering golden dress which was tightly fitted around the waist and then flared out in long pleats to the feet. The sleeves were long and lined with ermine. The new Queen consort was crowned the same day as her wedding at Westminster Abbey followed by a magnificent banquet. She and Henry would go on to have 5 children, the most famous being Edward I "Longshanks" King of England. Eleanor and Henry are Cheryl's 27 great grandparents and the 26th great grandparents of Cody and Courtney.

Ramon Berenguer IV 1195 - 1245 was Eleanor's father and Count of Provence. He was the son of Alfonso II of Provence. After his fathers death in 1209 Ramon was imprisoned in the Castle of Monzon in Aragon until he was able to escape in 1219 and claim his inheritance. On June 5 1219 Ramon married Beatrice of Savoy, the daughter of Thomas I of Savoy. A shrewd and politically astute women, her beauty was likened by Matthew Paris, to that of a second Niobe. Together they would have 4 daughters all of which married Kings.

Alfonso II of Provence 1174 - 1209 As the second son of Alfonso II of Aragon, he inherited the county of Provence which was transferred to him from his uncle Sancho in 1185. Born in Barcelona, Spain he married Gersenda II of Sabran, daughter of Rainou, Count of Forcalquier. Not much more is known of him or his inlaws. 28th for Cheryl and 27th for Cody

Alfonso II of Aragon 1157 - 1196 "the Troubadour" King of Aragon from 1162. Born Ramon Berenguer he changed his name in honor of Alfonso I. Most of the events regarding his life can be found online as they are more than can be told here. A noted poet he was also a close friend of Richard "the Lionheart". He was married to Sancha of Castile with whom he had several children. 29th for Cheryl and 28th for Cody.

Ramon Berenguer IV and Petronila of Aquitine
will be discussed later when we look at his line. They were the 30th and 29th set of great grandparents.

Ramiro II of Aragon 1075 - 1157 As one of the youngest sons of Sancho Ramirez, he had little hope of obtaining the crown or have any other major inheritance. Known as the monk he spent most of his early life in a French Monastery and was later the Abbott of St Peter at Huesca. In 1134 his brother Alfonso "the Battler" died heirless so Ramiro gave up his monastic vows in order to secure the succession of the Crown of Aragon. In order to produce an heir he married Agnes of Aquitine, the daughter of William IX, Count of Aquitine. Once wed the couple soon had a daughter, Petronila, who was betrothed to Ramon Berenguer IV at the age of 2. With the contract signed on August 11 1137, Petronila became heiress of Aragon. Ramon was also secured that if Petronila were to die childless that his heirs from future wives would be able to receive the crown. Though Ramiro never formally resigned his title he retired to San Pedro Monastery. Although out of the public eye he kept a close eye on the happenings of Aragon. His reign was filled with conflict with the barons as they thought that they would be able to easily manipulate him. Ramiro aided him in calming any factions before Ramiro's retirement. He eventually died on August 16 1157. 31st for Cheryl and 30th for Cody

Sancho Ramirez 1042 - 1094
King of Aragon from 1063 and of Navarre from 1076 as Sancho V. The son of Ramiro II of Aragon and Ermesinda (Gisberga). Between 1067 and 1068 the War of the Three Sanchos involved him in a conflict with his first cousins. Although he did not use the royal title in the early years of his rule that soon changed upon the murder of his cousin Sancho IV of Navarre by his siblings. At First Sancho IV's young son Alfonso VI was recognized as king but Sancho Ramirez quickly recruited noblemen of Navarre to his side and obtained rule of Navarre. After many battles he finally perished at the seige of Huesca in 1094. He had married Felicia his second wife in 1078, the daughter of Count Hilwin II of Roucy with whom he had three sons, of of which ascended to the throne. 32nd for Cheryl and 31st for Cody

Ramiro II of Aragon 1007 - 1063
A natural son of Sancho III he was born by Sancho's mistress Sancha de Aybar and later adopted by Sancho's wife Munradona. Ramiro sought to enlarge his lands at the expense of the Moors and his brother Garcia. Allied to the Emir of Tudela they invaded Garcia's kingdom and while defeated at the Battle of Tafalla, he was able to gain more lands as a result. In 1036 he married Ermesinda (Gisberga) daughter of Bernard Roger of Bigorre. Together they would have five children. 33rd for Cheryl and 32nd for Cody

Sancho II of Navarre d. 1035 "the Great" King of Navarre.
Born around 985 he was raised in Leyra, becoming king in 1004. In 1010 he married Muniadona Mayor the daughter of Sancho Garcia of Castile, his fathers cousin. During his reign he fought many battles against not only the Muslims but the neighboring barons in an attempt to enlarge his lands. The information regarding him abounds online and in historical documents. 34th for Cheryl and 33rd for Cody

Garcia Sanchez II "the Tremulous" d. 1004
King of Pamplona. Soon after taking the throne he joined his cousins in an attempt to break from the submission his father had offered to Cordoba, and as a result he had to face Almanzor, Moorish Ruler of Iberia. In 997 during an expidition into the land of Calatayud, Garcia killed the governors brother. Almanzor took revenge by killing 50 Christians. In 981 Garcia had married Jimena, daughter of Ferdinand Vermdez. among their children was Urraca who would marry Alfonso V of Leon. 35th and 34th

While the line does continue back further I am going to stop here for the time being. Many of these ancestors have much written about them while others have very little. The area in which they lived was under constant attack not only from the Muslims but the Moors as well and as France attempted to expand its reaches they also began to wage war against them. Eleanor's Son Edward I would go on to marry Eleanor of Castile another beauty of her day, but we will take a look at her later. Until the next time.

Friday, April 24, 2009

History

I have noticed in my research the many attempts to rewrite history by those who desire to abolish any reference to God or Jesus Christ. I guess it should not surprise me considering what we have allowed to happen in our own country. This affects not only those of us who are Christians but also those attempting to establish ancestral lines because many of the sources for historical information including many of the chronicles written during those days have been discredited especially if they were written by anyone claiming a Christian faith. The other problem is the embellishment of stories, many of which I consider to be symbolic references towards either enemies or friends. The only thing that I can do is to cross reference data from several sources if available to insure the accuracy of the information I obtain even when certain figures or names are considered to be mythical. Often times we find that one source will use one variation of the spelling of the name while another writer will use a different spelling. This has caused me much grief as I often times have to go back and delete relatives that have been duplicated when they are one in the same but linking through another ancestor. This has happened more than once because the family of Cheryl and that of my older two children, Cody and Courtney kept marrying back into each other down the line. This sometimes provides several of the children of one generation to all be direct ancestors.

As I have begun to attempt to write this history in a manner that would intrigue a younger generation and hopefully encourage them to delve into history itself, (possibly get them off of their video games for a while) I find myself looking at genealogy in a different light. The determination of exactly where or how to begin was an enormous challenge to which I eventually decided to begin where most every good action movie begins, on the battle field. This of course presented another dilemma and that was which battlefield do I begin with since most of their ancestors were derived from warring tribes. As I began to research this avenue I immediately found several other direct lines simply based upon the battles that I was researching which took me further back into history as well as led me into the early 1500's. I soon found myself no closer to a solution than I was when I first began and my journey took me across several continents as well as an even greater diversity of people; ranging from Russia (Kiev) to Mongolia (an uncle married a grand daughter of Ghengis Khan) and from Norway to Rome and beyond.

I then determined to not only begin on the battlefield but with one specific line or nation; so I choose their Irish line which ended up taking me back to 1200 BC with a direct unbroken male line for 76 generations of kings or high dukes or prince. This line of course gave me the opportunity to begin on the battlefield because the only information on the ancestor was that he obtained the rule over his people by killing the previous ruler then fought for several years to maintain rule before being killed by his predecessor's son who was later killed by his son and on and on it goes down the line, with more and more information being recorded the further down the line it went. This line eventually merged into the Scottish line as well as the English and Norman lines. Other battles include those against the Roman Empire with the German line fighting against Marcus Aurelius as depicted in the opening scene of Gladiator. In the English or Briton line we have the battles against the Romans, Picts and others who attempted to invade. In one battle we have the women scouring the battle field for heads which they would wash and turn over to the king and for payment they would receive a cow for every head they brought. The heads would then be put on display on the wall. Yet as great as these atrocities might seem even in more current history we had much of the same things happen as the wickedness of man rarely changes it merely goes into hiding until such time it can once again be revealed.

Hopefully by my next posting I will decide to actually put some of the genealogy into the post whereby you can actually see some of the links to the names I have mentioned. Until then as you watch any movie based upon historical figures begin to wonder if they are related to you or perhaps if they are your great grandfather, grand mother Aunt or Uncle and yes this does include King Arthur for while some things are embellished he was a historical figure.

Some movies to check out are, The Alamo (ties into the Finley side) Elizabeth I (ties into the Hash (Cheryl's) and Whitehead) (Cody and Courtney's grandmother) Braveheart, King Arthur, Mongal, Atilla, (yes there are ties but difficult to determine) Kingdom of Heaven, Gladiator, Troy, (yes there is a possible connection as some of the lines claim them as ancestors) Joan of Arc (no for now there is no tie to her but there is to those responsible for her capture and death) Tristan and Isolde, (Isolde's father is possible if I can get past the mythical character as is those of Lord Mark's council) The Last Legion, Amazing Grace, (no not William Wilburforce but some of those in the courts as well as some of the Jacobites) and I am sure there are many others that are at this time escaping my memory which is to be expected with as much information as is crammed in there right now. So until later I hope you enjoy this tidbit.

New Blog Page

Since I have been working on our family tree I have come across a lot of interesting things so I decided that I would create a page for all of the family to go to and read some of the events that have happened in our past history. I am planning on having a book published in the future regarding our family tree. Since there are several families involved including my past marriages it will probably be a while in coming but until then you will be able to come here and review history. I am hoping to have the first installment placed here later today or perhaps tonight.