Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales

Monmouthshire South East Wales is in South East Wales.

1233 Battle of Monmouth

1405 Battle of Pwll Melyn aka Usk

1542 Dissolution of the Monasteries

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Caerleon [Map]

The River Usk rises at Fan Brycheiniog [Map] after which it flows broadly east through Sennybridge [Map], Brecon [Map], then south-east, under Crickhowell Bridge, Monmouthshire [Map], Abergavenny, Monmouthshire [Map], then under the Chain Bridge [Map] at Kemeys Commander, south through Usk, Monmouthshire [Map], under the bridge at Newbridge-on-Usk [Map], past Caerleon [Map] to Newport, Monmouthshire [Map] where it joins the Severn Estuary.

The Itinerary of Archbishop Baldwin through Wales: Book 1 Chapter 5. Julius and Aaron, after suffering martyrdom, were buried in this city [Caerleon [Map]], and had each a church dedicated to him. After Albanus and Amphibalus, they were esteemed the chief protomartyrs of Britannia Major. In ancient times there were three fine churches in this city: one dedicated to Julius the martyr, graced with a choir of nuns; another to Aaron, his associate, and ennobled with an order of canons; and the third distinguished as the metropolitan of Wales. Amphibalus, the instructor of Albanus in the true faith, was born in this place. This city is well situated on the river Usk, navigable to the sea, and adorned with woods and meadows. The Roman ambassadors here received their audience at the court of the great king Arthur; and here also, the archbishop Dubricius ceded his honours to David of Menevia, the metropolitan see being translated from this place to Menevia, according to the prophecy of Merlin Ambrosius. "Menevia pallio urbis Legionum induetur." "Menevia shall be invested with the pall of the city of Legions."

The Itinerary of Archbishop Baldwin through Wales: Book 1 Chapter 5. At the castle of Usk [Map], a multitude of persons influenced by the archbishop's sermon, and by the exhortations of the good and worthy William bishop of Landaf,65 who faithfully accompanied us through his diocese, were signed with the cross; Alexander archdeacon of Bangor66 acting as interpreter to the Welsh. It is remarkable that many of the most notorious murderers, thieves, and robbers of the neighbourhood were here converted, to the astonishment of the spectators. Passing from thence through Caerleon [Map] and leaving far on our left hand the castle of Monmouth [Map], and the noble forest of Dean, situated on the other side of the Wye and on this side the Severn, and which amply supplies Gloucester with iron and venison, we spent the night at Newport [Map], having crossed the river Usk three times.67 Caerleon [Map] means the city of Legions, Caer, in the British language, signifying a city or camp, for there the Roman legions, sent into this island, were accustomed to winter, and from this circumstance it was styled the city of legions. This city was of undoubted antiquity, and handsomely built of masonry, with courses of bricks, by the Romans. Many vestiges of its former splendour may yet be seen; immense palaces, formerly ornamented with gilded roofs, in imitation of Roman magnificence, inasmuch as they were first raised by the Roman princes, and embellished with splendid buildings; a tower of prodigious size, remarkable hot baths, relics of temples, and theatres, all inclosed within fine walls, parts of which remain standing. You will find on all sides, both within and without the circuit of the walls, subterraneous buildings, aqueducts, underground passages; and what I think worthy of notice, stoves contrived with wonderful art, to transmit the heat insensibly through narrow tubes passing up the side walls.

Note 65. William de Salso Marisco, who succeeded to the bishopric of Llandaff, A.D. 1185, and presided over that see during the time of Baldwin's visitation, in 1188.

Note 66. Alexander was the fourth archdeacon of the see of Bangor.

Note 67. Once at Usk, then at Caerleon, and afterwards on entering the town of Newport.

Gildas. 10. God, therefore, who wishes all men to be saved, and who calls sinners no less than those who think themselves righteous, magnified his mercy towards us, and, as we know, during the above-named persecution, that Britain might not totally be enveloped in the dark shades of night, he, of his own free gift, kindled up among us bright luminaries of holy martyrs, whose places of burial and of martyrdom, had they not for our manifold crimes been interfered with and destroyed by the barbarians, would have still kindled in the minds of the beholders no small fire of divine charity. Such were St. Alban of Verulam, Aaron and Julius, citizens of Carlisle [Note. Carlisle a mistake. Proably Caerleon [Map], possibly Chester, Cheshire [Map]], and the rest, of both sexes, who in different places stood their ground in the Christian contest.

Welsh Border Road describes an unamed Roman Road, and unnumbered by Margery, that went from Caerleon [Map] to Wroxeter, Shropshire [Map], passing through Usk, Monmouthshire [Map], Abergavenny, Monmouthshire [Map], Hereford [Map], Mortimer's Cross, Herefordshire [Map], Wigmore, Herefordshire [Map] and Leintwardine Bridge, Herefordshire [Map] where it crosses the River Teme just after its convergence with the River Clun.

Europe, British Isles, Caldicot Monmouthshire South East Wales

Europe, British Isles, Caldicot Monmouthshire South East Wales, Caldicot Castle

On 06 Dec 1309 William Bohun 1st Earl of Northampton was born to Humphrey Bohun 4th Earl Hereford 3rd Earl Essex (age 33) and Princess Elizabeth of Rhuddlan Countess Essex, Hereford and Holland (age 27) at Caldicot Castle. He a grandson of King Edward I of England.

In 1310 Edward Bohun was born to Humphrey Bohun 4th Earl Hereford 3rd Earl Essex (age 34) and Princess Elizabeth of Rhuddlan Countess Essex, Hereford and Holland (age 27) at Caldicot Castle. He a grandson of King Edward I of England.

Around 1669 Mary Russell was born to William Russell 1st Baronet and Hester Rouse Lady Russell at Caldicot Castle.

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Chepstow aka Striguil

After 1130 Baderon Monmouth Lord Monmouth (age 30) and Rohese de Clare were married at Chepstow aka Striguil, Monmouthshire.

In 1471 Roger Vaughan (age 61) was beheaded at Chepstow aka Striguil, Monmouthshire.

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Crickhowell

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Crickhowell Bridge [Map]

The River Usk rises at Fan Brycheiniog [Map] after which it flows broadly east through Sennybridge [Map], Brecon [Map], then south-east, under Crickhowell Bridge, Monmouthshire [Map], Abergavenny, Monmouthshire [Map], then under the Chain Bridge [Map] at Kemeys Commander, south through Usk, Monmouthshire [Map], under the bridge at Newbridge-on-Usk [Map], past Caerleon [Map] to Newport, Monmouthshire [Map] where it joins the Severn Estuary.

1538. Crickhowell Bridge, Monmouthshire [Map] is a bridge over the River Usk first constructed in 1538. In 1706 it was completely rebuilt in stone with additional arches, at a cost of £400. The bridge is claimed to be the longest stone bridge in Wales at over 128 metres.

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Crickhowell, Gwernvale Long Barrow [Map]

Gwernvale Long Barrow is also in Prehistoric Wales Neolithic Burials.

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Dingestow

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Dingestow Castle [Map]

The Itinerary of Archbishop Baldwin through Wales: Book 1 Chapter 4. We leave to others the relation of those frequent and cruel excesses which in our times have arisen amongst the inhabitants of these parts, against the governors of castles, and the vindictive retaliations of the governors against the natives. But king Henry II. was the true author, and Ranulf Poer, sheriff of Hereford, the instrument, of the enormous cruelties and slaughter perpetrated here in our days, which I thought better to omit, lest bad men should be induced to follow the example; for although temporary advantage may seem to arise from a base cause, yet, by the balance of a righteous judge, the punishment of wickedness may be deferred, though not totally avoided, according to the words of the poet, -

"Non habet eventus sordida praeda bonos."

For after seven years of peace and tranquillity, the sons and grandsons of the deceased, having attained the age of manhood, took advantage of the absence of the lord of the castle (Abergevenni), and, burning with revenge, concealed themselves, with no inconsiderable force during the night, within the woody foss of the castle. One of them, name Sisillus (Sitsylt) son of Eudaf, on the preceding day said rather jocularly to the constable, "Here will we enter this night, pointing out to him a certain angle in the wall where it seemed the lowest; but since

" - Ridendo dicere verum

Quis vetat?"

and

" - fas est et ab hoste doceri,"

the constable and his household watched all night under arms, till at length, worn out by fatigue, they all retired to rest on the appearance of daylight, upon which the enemy attacked the walls with scaling-ladders, at the very place that had been pointed out. The constable and his wife were taken prisoners, with many others, a few persons only escaping, who had sheltered themselves in the principal tower. With the exception of this stronghold, the enemy violently seized and burned everything; and thus, by the righteous judgment of God, the crime was punished in the very place where it had been committed. A short time after the taking of this fortress, when the aforesaid sheriff was building a castle at Landinegat [Map],62 near Monmouth, with the assistance of the army he had brought from Hereford, he was attacked at break of day, when

"Tythoni croceum linquens Aurora cubile" [Leaving the saffron bed of Tythonian Aurora.]

was only beginning to divest herself of the shades of night, by the young men from Gwent and the adjacent parts, with the descendants of those who had been slain. Through aware of this premeditated attack, and prepared and drawn up in battle array, they were nevertheless repulsed within their intrenchments, and the sheriff, together with nine of the chief men of Hereford, and many others, were pierced to death with lances. It is remarkable that, although Ranulf, besides many other mortal wounds, had the veins and arteries of his neck and his windpipe separated with a sword, he made signs for a priest, and from the merit of his past life, and the honour and veneration he had shewn to those chosen into the sacred order of Christ, he was confessed, and received extreme unction before he died. And, indeed, many events concur to prove that, as those who respect the priesthood, in their latter days enjoy the satisfaction of friendly intercourse, so do their revilers and accusers often die without that consolation. William de Braose, who was not the author of the crime we have preferred passing over in silence, but the executioner, or, rather, not the preventer of its execution, while the murderous bands were fulfilling the orders they had received, was precipitated into a deep foss, and being taken by the enemy, was drawn forth, and only by a sudden effort of his own troops, and by divine mercy, escaped uninjured. Hence it is evident that he who offends in a less degree, and unwillingly permits a thing to be done, is more mildly punished than he who adds counsel and authority to his act. Thus, in the sufferings of Christ, Judas was punished with hanging, the Jews with destruction and banishment, and Pilate with exile. But the end of the king, who assented to and ordered this treachery, sufficiently manifested in what manner, on account of this and many other enormities he had committed (as in the book "De Instructione Principis," by God's guidance, we shall set forth), he began with accumulated ignominy, sorrow, and confusion, to suffer punishment in this world.63

Note 62. Landinegat [Map], or the church of St. Dingad, is now better known by the name of Dingatstow [Map], or Dynastow, a village near Monmouth.

Note 63. [For the end of William de Braose, see footnote 31.]

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Duffryn

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Duffryn, Gwern-y-Cleppa Long Barrow [Map]

Gwern-y-Cleppa Long Barrow is also in Prehistoric Wales Neolithic Burials.

Long Barrows of the Cotswolds. Gwern-y-Cleppa Long Barrow [Map]

Europe, British Isles, Grosmont Monmouthshire South East Wales

Europe, British Isles, Grosmont Monmouthshire South East Wales, Grosmont Castle [Map]

Flowers of History by Roger of Wendover 1233. How the proscribed nobles attacked the king's army at Grosmont [Map].

The king had by this time collected a powerful army at Gloucester, with which he advanced towards Hereford in Wales, where he invaded the marshal's territory, endeavouring by all the means in his power to deprive him of his inheritance, and to seize his person. That cautious soldier had, however, before the king's approach, withdrawn all the cattle and provisions, wherefore the king, not being able to stay there, owing to the failure of his provisions, turned off with his army to the castle of Grosmont [Map]. After he had stayed there some days, the marshal and his proscribed confederates found out by means of their spies that the king passed the night inside that castle while his army were encamped outside the walls. The whole body of them therefore, except the marshal, who refused to attack the king, marched for that place with the Welsh chiefs and a larse army a little after dusk on Martinmas day, and rushing on the king's troops who were lying asleep in their tents, took possession of more than five hundred horses, with all their baggage and equipments, the men themselves taking to flight nearly naked in all directions. The conquerors however did not wish to wound or make prisoners of any of them, and there were only two knights slain out of the whole number. They then took all the waggons and carts containing the money, provisions, and arms, and having carefully disposed of their booty, returned to their safe hiding-places. The following nobles all were witnesses of this occurrence, namely, Peter bishop of Winchester, Ralph bishop of Chichester, Stephen Segrave (age 61) the justiciary, Peter de Rivaulx the treasurer, Hugh Bigod earl of Norfolk, William earl of Salisbury, William Beauchamp (age 47), William Daubeney the younger, and many others, who fled nearly naked, losing all their property; great numbers of the king's army then, and especially those who had lost their horses and all their money, went away in great trouble and returned to their homes. The king, who nad been thus left as it were alone, in the midst of his enemies, then put his Poictevin freebooters in charge of the castles of Wales, to repel the attacks of his enemies, and gave the command of his army to the nobles, John of Monmouth, and Ralph de Thoeny, to the latter of whom he also gave the castle of Matilda, which belonged to him by old right; whilst he himself, after making these arrangements, returned to Gloucester.

Around 1310 Henry of Grosmont 1st Duke Lancaster was born to Henry Plantagenet 3rd Earl of Leicester 3rd Earl Lancaster (age 29) and Maud Chaworth (age 27) at Grosmont Castle [Map]. He a great grandson of King Henry III of England.

Around 1312 Joan Plantagenet Baroness Mowbray was born to Henry Plantagenet 3rd Earl of Leicester 3rd Earl Lancaster (age 31) and Maud Chaworth (age 29) at Grosmont Castle [Map]. She a great granddaughter of King Henry III of England.

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Kemeys Commander [Map]

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Chain Bridge Kemeys Commander [Map]

The River Usk rises at Fan Brycheiniog [Map] after which it flows broadly east through Sennybridge [Map], Brecon [Map], then south-east, under Crickhowell Bridge, Monmouthshire [Map], Abergavenny, Monmouthshire [Map], then under the Chain Bridge [Map] at Kemeys Commander, south through Usk, Monmouthshire [Map], under the bridge at Newbridge-on-Usk [Map], past Caerleon [Map] to Newport, Monmouthshire [Map] where it joins the Severn Estuary.

In 1829 the Chain Bridge [Map] over the River Usk at Kemeys Commander was built by Brown Lenox of Pontypridd.

Between 1905 and 1906 by George Palmer of Neath, is an iron arch with green-painted girders which is still referred to as Chain Bridge.

Europe, British Isles, Kevelioc Monmouthshire South East Wales

In 1147 Hugh de Kevelioc Gernon 5th Earl Chester was born to Ranulf Gernon 4th Earl Chester (age 48) and Matilda Fitzrobert Countess Chester at Kevelioc Monmouthshire South East Wales. He a great grandson of King Henry I "Beauclerc" England.

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Langstone Monmouthshire

In 1377 Jenkyn ap Philip was born to Philip ap Morgan (age 27) in Langstone Monmouthshire.

In 1413 Morgan ap Jenkin Lord of Langstone was born to Jenkyn ap Philip (age 36) in Langstone Monmouthshire.

Around 1462 Sybil of Lansgtone Manor was born to Morgan ap Jenkin Lord of Langstone (age 49) in Langstone Monmouthshire.

Europe, British Isles, Llandenny Monmouthshire South East Wales

Europe, British Isles, Llandenny Churchyard Llandenny Monmouthshire South East Wales

On 08 May 1884 Richard Henry Fitzroy Somerset 2nd Baron Raglan (deceased) was buried at Llandenny Churchyard Llandenny Monmouthshire South East Wales.

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Llanfarthin

In 1624 Robert Morgan was born at Llanfarthin, Monmouthshire.

Europe, British Isles, Llanover Monmouthshire South East Wales

Europe, British Isles, Llanover Monmouthshire South East Wales, Arnold Arnaullt Castle [Map]

On 12 Apr 1165 Henry Fitzmiles Baron Bergavenny was killed by Seisyll ap Dyfnwal Gwent at Arnold Arnaullt Castle [Map]. He buried at Llanthony Secunda Priory, Gloucestershire [Map]. His brother Mahel Gloucester succeeded Baron Bergavenny Feudal Creation.

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Llantrisant Fawr [Map]

Sep 2013. Museum of Wales: The hoard was discovered in 2013 by Phillip Turton, while he was metal-detecting on farm land under pasture, in Llantrisant Fawr Community [Map], Monmouthshire. He responsibly reported the discovery and findspot to the Portable Antiquities Scheme in Wales as a treasure find. With the help of the finder, an archaeological investigation of the findspot was undertaken by museum archaeologists in 2013. The hoard was subsequently declared to be treasure by the Coroner for Gwent in 2015. It was later acquired in 2016 for the national collection, with the help of grant funding provided by the Saving Treasures; Telling Stories project (Collecting Cultures Programme) funded through the National Lottery Heritage Fund.Bronze Age Gold

Europe, British Isles, Lower Machen Monmouthshire South East Wales

Europe, British Isles, Ruperra Castle Lower Machen Monmouthshire South East Wales

On 01 Jan 1715 John Morgan (age 74) died. John Morgan of Tredegar (age 43) inherited Ruperra Castle Lower Machen Monmouthshire South East Wales from his uncle John Morgan.

Europe, British Isles, Machen Monmouthshire South East Wales

In 1498 Morgan Herbert was born to Richard Herbert (age 56) and Margaret Cradock at Machen Monmouthshire South East Wales.

In 1577 Morgan Herbert (age 79) died at Machen Monmouthshire South East Wales.

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Monmouth [Map]

Around 1182 John Monmouth was born to Gilbert Monmouth Lord Monmouth at Monmouth, Monmouthshire [Map].

Flowers of History by Roger of Wendover 1233. Of the fierce battle between the marshal and the Poictevins.

In the same year the marshal (age 42), on one of his foraging incursions into the territories of his enemies, came to the town of Monmouth [Map], which was hostile to him, where he ordered his army to proceed on their expedition, whilst he with a hundred of his fellow knights turned aside towards the castle of that place to examine its condition, as he purposed to besiege it in a few days; but as he was riding round the walls of the town, he was seen by Baldwin de Guisnes (age 33), to whom the king had entrusted the charge of that castle [Map] together with several Poictevins, and understanding that the marshal was there with only a few followers for the purpose of examining the castle, he sallied out with a thousand brave and well-equipped soldiers, and pursued him at full speed, designing to make him and his followers prisoners and bring them into the town. The earl Marshal's companions however, when they saw the impetuous advance of the enemy, advised him to consult their safety by flight, saying that it would be rash for such a few of them to engage with such a number of the enemy; to which the marshal replied that he had never as yet turned his back on his enemies in battle, and declared that he would not do so now, and exhorted them to defend themselves bravely and not to die unavenged. The troops from the castle then rushed fiercely on them and attacked them with their lances and swords [Battle of Monmouth]: a severe though very unequal conflict then ensued, yet although there were only a hundred of the marshal's party to oppose a thousand of their adversaries, they fought for a great part of the day. But Baldwin de Guisnes with twelve of his stoutest and best armed soldiers made au attack on the marshal in person, and endeavoured to take him prisoner and carry him off to the castle; he however kept them at a distance, brandishing his sword right and left, and struck down whoever came within reach, either killing them or stunning them hy the force of his blows, and although engaged single-handed against twelve enemies, defended himself for a length of time. His enemies at length, not daring to approach him, killed the horse he rode with their lances; but the marshal, who was well practised in the French way of fighting, seized one of the knights who was attacking him by the feet, and dragged him to the ground, and then quickly mounting his adversary's horse, he renewed the battle. The knight Baldwin was ashamed that the marshal defended himself single-handed against so many of his enemies for such a time, and made a desperate attack on him, and seizing his helmet, tore it from his head with such violence, that blood gushed forth from his mouth and nostrils; he then seized the marshal's horse by the bridle, and endeavoured to drag it with its rider towards the castle, whilst others assisted him by impelling the marshal on from behind. The latter however, sweeping his sword behind him, struck two of his enemies to the earth stunned, but could not then release himself from their grasp. At this juncture however a cross-bowman amongst the marshal's company, seeing his lord in danger, discharged an arrow from his bow, which, striking Baldwin, who was dragging the marshal away, in the breast, entered his body, notwithstanding his armour, and he fell to the earth believing himself mortally wounded; his companions on seeing this, left the marshal, and went to raise Baldwin from the ground, for they thought that he was dead.

Brief Lives: William Cecil 1st Baron Burghley 1520 1598. Cecil, lord Burleigh: Memorandum, the true name is Sitsilt, and is an ancient Monmouthshire family, but now come to be about the size c of yeomanry. In the church at Monmouth [Map], I remember in a south windowe an ancient scutcheon of the family, the same that this family beares. 'Tis strange that they should be so vaine to leave off an old British name for a Romancy one, which beteere Mr Verstegan did putt into their heads, telling his lordship, in his booke, that they were derived from the ancient Roman Cecilii. The first lord Burley (who was Secretary of Estate) was at first but (a) country-schoole-master, and (I thinke Dr. Thomas Fuller sayes, vide Holy State) borne in Wales. I remember (when I was a schooleboy at Blandford) Mr. Basket, a reverend divine, who was wont to beg us play-dayes, would alwayes be uncovered, and sayd that 'twas the lord Burleigh's custome for (said he) here is my Lord Chanceller, my Lord Treasurer, my Lord Chief Justice, &c., predestinated'. 'He made Cicero's Epistles his glasse, his rule, his oracle, and ordinarie pocket-booke ' (Dr. J. Web in preface of his translation of Cicero's Familiar Epistles.

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Monmouth Castle [Map]

The Itinerary of Archbishop Baldwin through Wales: Book 1 Chapter 5. At the castle of Usk [Map], a multitude of persons influenced by the archbishop's sermon, and by the exhortations of the good and worthy William bishop of Landaf,65 who faithfully accompanied us through his diocese, were signed with the cross; Alexander archdeacon of Bangor66 acting as interpreter to the Welsh. It is remarkable that many of the most notorious murderers, thieves, and robbers of the neighbourhood were here converted, to the astonishment of the spectators. Passing from thence through Caerleon [Map] and leaving far on our left hand the castle of Monmouth [Map], and the noble forest of Dean, situated on the other side of the Wye and on this side the Severn, and which amply supplies Gloucester with iron and venison, we spent the night at Newport [Map], having crossed the river Usk three times.67 Caerleon [Map] means the city of Legions, Caer, in the British language, signifying a city or camp, for there the Roman legions, sent into this island, were accustomed to winter, and from this circumstance it was styled the city of legions. This city was of undoubted antiquity, and handsomely built of masonry, with courses of bricks, by the Romans. Many vestiges of its former splendour may yet be seen; immense palaces, formerly ornamented with gilded roofs, in imitation of Roman magnificence, inasmuch as they were first raised by the Roman princes, and embellished with splendid buildings; a tower of prodigious size, remarkable hot baths, relics of temples, and theatres, all inclosed within fine walls, parts of which remain standing. You will find on all sides, both within and without the circuit of the walls, subterraneous buildings, aqueducts, underground passages; and what I think worthy of notice, stoves contrived with wonderful art, to transmit the heat insensibly through narrow tubes passing up the side walls.

Note 65. William de Salso Marisco, who succeeded to the bishopric of Llandaff, A.D. 1185, and presided over that see during the time of Baldwin's visitation, in 1188.

Note 66. Alexander was the fourth archdeacon of the see of Bangor.

Note 67. Once at Usk, then at Caerleon, and afterwards on entering the town of Newport.

On 09 Aug 1386 King Henry V of England was born to King Henry IV of England (age 19) and Mary Bohun (age 18) at Monmouth Castle [Map]. He was created Duke of Cornwall the same day. Coefficient of inbreeding 2.60%.

On 02 Apr 1684 Henry Somerset 2nd Duke Beaufort was born to Charles Somerset Marquess Worcester (age 23) and Rebecca Child Marchioness Worcester (age 18) at Monmouth Castle [Map].

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Newbridge-on-Usk [Map]

Newbridge-on-Usk [Map] is the location of a red sandstone three-arched bridge over the River Usk built in 1779 at the Normal Tidal Limit of the River.

The River Usk rises at Fan Brycheiniog [Map] after which it flows broadly east through Sennybridge [Map], Brecon [Map], then south-east, under Crickhowell Bridge, Monmouthshire [Map], Abergavenny, Monmouthshire [Map], then under the Chain Bridge [Map] at Kemeys Commander, south through Usk, Monmouthshire [Map], under the bridge at Newbridge-on-Usk [Map], past Caerleon [Map] to Newport, Monmouthshire [Map] where it joins the Severn Estuary.

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Newchurch West

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Newchurch West, Y Garn Llwyd aka Gaer Llywd Long Barrow [Map]

Archaeologia Cambrensis 1846 Gaer Llywd Cromlech. Cromlech At Gaerllwyd, Newchurch, Near Caerwent, Monmouthshire [Map].

The relic of antiquity called a Cromlech [Y Garn Llwyd aka Gaer Llywd Long Barrow [Map]], of which a representation is here given, being the only one of the kind in Monmouthshire, and no particulars relating to it having been given by Coxe, Williams, or any of the numerous tourists who have undertaken to describe the more remarkable places in that county, some account thereof, it is deemed, will prove interesting.

The upper or incumbent stone of this ancient relic is twelve feet long, and at a mean, three feet and a half broad; the uprights or supporters are from four to five feet high, and the whole seems to have been surrounded by a slight trench and bank. It is situated on a small farm called Gaer Llwyd, in the parish of Newchurch, on a hill northwards from the town of Caerwent [Map], and distant therefrom, in a direct line, about four miles.

In addition to this, there are several interesting antiquities in the neighbourhood. About a mile from the Cromlech, in the same direction from Caerwent, and in the parish of Llangwm, near its boundary with that of Wolvesnewton, is a very extensive camp, called Gaervawr, and a mile and half westward from thence is another camp, also in the parish of Liangwm, at Golden Hill, formerly called Bryn Eurawg. And about a mile north-east from the Gaervawr is another camp, called Cwrtygaer, in the parish of Wolvesnewton, that gives name to the house and estate on which it is situated; this camp is circular, and thought to be Danish, whereas the others are considered to be British.

Archaeologia Cambrensis 1909 The Early Settlers of Monmouth. The clear traces of cromlechau," or dolmens, as they are often called by English and foreign archaeologists, in Monmouthshire are very few, but in the Arch. Camb. for 1846, p. 277, there is a reference to a cromlech at Gaer llwyd [Map] (or Gaer lwyd), Newchurch, near Caerwent [Map]. Of this it is there said "The upper or incumbent stone of this ancient relic is 12 ft. long, and, at a mean, 3½ ft. broad. The uprights or supports are from 4 ft. to 5 ft. high, and the whole seems to have been surrounded by a slight trench and bank." The cromlech in question was discovered some years ago by T. Wakeman, Esq., of Graig, Monmouthshire, who, seeing when at some distance off what he thought was a cottage, went to it, and was agreeably surprised on finding it different from what he expected. Since then the account he gave of it has caused it to be visited by several individuals and, when a new road was about to be made in the neighbourhood, he interested himself to preserve it from being broken for road materials, as a Maen Hir near Monmouth had shortly before been broken for the purpose." Last September, through the kindness of Mr. A. E. Bowen, of Castle Vale, Usk, the writer had an opportunity of visiting this undoubted cromlech in the company of Mrs. Bowen and Mr. A. J. Bowen. A photograph of the cromlech in question, kindly taken by Mr. A. J. Bowen, is appended.

In the Arch. Camb. for 1854, p. 14, there is an account of prehistoric remains in Monmouthshire, which takes the form of additions to Coxe's Historical Tour. The tumuli and earthworks which Mr. Wakeman here mentions were not necessarily of a sepulchral character. In fact, they would seem to be rather of the nature of military fortifications. In the absence of excavations, it will be difficult to assign to them their true character. It is significant, as Mr. Wakeman points out, that a very large portion of the district, including Trelleck and several of the adjoining parishes, down to a comparatively late period was a dense forest, chiefly oak, called the Forest or Chase of Wyeswood.

[Photo here to dark be of use!]

Long Barrows of the Cotswolds. Y Garn Llwyd aka Gaer Llywd Long Barrow [Map]

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Newport [Map]

The River Usk rises at Fan Brycheiniog [Map] after which it flows broadly east through Sennybridge [Map], Brecon [Map], then south-east, under Crickhowell Bridge, Monmouthshire [Map], Abergavenny, Monmouthshire [Map], then under the Chain Bridge [Map] at Kemeys Commander, south through Usk, Monmouthshire [Map], under the bridge at Newbridge-on-Usk [Map], past Caerleon [Map] to Newport, Monmouthshire [Map] where it joins the Severn Estuary.

The Itinerary of Archbishop Baldwin through Wales: Book 1 Chapter 6. At Newport [Map], where the river Usk, descending from its original source in Cantref Bachan, falls into the sea, many persons were induced to take the cross. Having passed the river Remni, we approached the noble castle of Caerdyf, situated on the banks of the river Taf. In the neighbourhood of Newport, which is in the district of Gwentluc,71 there is a small stream called Nant Pencarn,72 passable only at certain fords, not so much owing to the depth of its waters, as from the hollowness of its channel and muddy bottom. The public road led formerly to a ford, called Ryd Pencarn, that is, the ford under the head of a rock, from Rhyd, which in the British language signifies a ford, Pen, the head, and Cam, a rock; of which place Merlin Sylvester had thus prophesied: "Whenever you shall see a mighty prince with a freckled face make an hostile irruption into the southern part of Britain, should he cross the ford of Pencarn, then know ye, that the force of Cambria shall be brought low." Now it came to pass in our times, that king Henry II. took up arms against Rhys, the son of Gruffydd, and directed his march through the southern part of Wales towards Caermardyn. On the day he intended to pass over Nant Pentcarn, the old Britons of the neighbourhood watched his approach towards the ford with the utmost solicitude; knowing, since he was both mighty and freckled, that if the passage of the destined ford was accomplished, the prophecy concerning him would undoubtedly be fulfilled. When the king had followed the road leading to a more modern ford of the river (the old one spoken of in the prophecy having been for a long time in disuse), and was preparing to pass over, the pipers and trumpeters, called Cornhiriet, from HIR, long, and CORNU, a horn, began to sound their instruments on the opposite bank, in honour of the king. The king's horse, startling at the wild, unusual noise, refused to obey the spur, and enter the water; upon which, the king, gathering up the reins, hastened, in violent wrath, to the ancient ford, which he rapidly passed; and the Britons returned to their homes, alarmed and dismayed at the destruction which seemed to await them. An extraordinary circumstance occurred likewise at the castle of Caerdyf. William earl of Gloucester, son of earl Robert,73 who, besides that castle, possessed by hereditary right all the province of Gwladvorgan,74 that is, the land of Morgan, had a dispute with one of his dependants, whose name was Ivor the Little, being a man of short stature, but of great courage. This man was, after the manner of the Welsh, owner of a tract of mountainous and woody country, of the whole, or a part of which, the earl endeavoured to deprive him. At that time the castle of Caerdyf was surrounded with high walls, guarded by one hundred and twenty men-at-arms, a numerous body of archers, and a strong watch. The city also contained many stipendiary soldiers; yet, in defiance of all these precautions of security, Ivor, in the dead of night, secretly scaled the walls, and, seizing the count and countess, with their only son, carried them off into the woods, and did not release them until he had recovered everything that had been unjustly taken from him, and received a compensation of additional property; for, as the poet observes,

"Spectandum est semper ne magna injuria fiat

Fortibus et miseris; tollas licet omne quod usquam est

Argenti atque auri, spoliatis arma supersunt."

Note 71. Gwentluc - so called from Gwent, the name of the province, and llug, open, to distinguish it from the upper parts of Wentland, is an extensive tract of flat, marshy ground, reaching from Newport to the shores of the river Severn.

Note 72. Nant Pencarn, or the brook of Pencarn. - After a very attentive examination of the country round Newport, by natives of that place, and from the information I have received on the subject, I am inclined to think that the river here alluded to was the Ebwy, which flows about a mile and a half south of Newport. Before the new turnpike road and bridge were made across Tredegar Park, the old road led to a ford lower down the river, and may still be travelled as far as Cardiff; and was probably the ford mentioned in the text, as three old farm-houses in its neighbourhood still retain the names of Great Pencarn, Little Pencarn, and Middle Pencarn.

Note 73. Robert Fitz-Hamon, earl of Astremeville, in Normandy, came into England with William the Conqueror; and, by the gift of William Rufus, obtained the honour of Gloucester. He was wounded with a spear at the siege of Falaise, in Normandy, died soon afterwards, and was buried, A.D. 1102, in the abbey of Tewkesbury, which he had founded. Leaving no male issue, king Henry gave his eldest daughter, Mabel, or Maude, who, in her own right, had the whole honour of Gloucester, to his illegitimate son Robert, who was advanced to the earldom of Gloucester by the king, his father. He died A.D. 1147, and left four sons: William, the personage here mentioned by Giraldus, who succeeded him in his titles and honours; Roger, bishop of Worcester, who died at Tours in France, A.D. 1179; Hamon, who died at the siege of Toulouse, A.D. 1159; and Philip.

Note 74. The Coychurch Manuscript quoted by Mr. Williams, in his History of Monmouthshire, asserts that Morgan, surnamed Mwyn-fawr, or the Gentle, the son of Athrwy, not having been elected to the chief command of the British armies, upon his father's death retired from Caerleon, and took up his residence in Glamorganshire, sometimes at Radyr, near Cardiff, and at other times at Margam; and from this event the district derived its name, quasi Gwlad-Morgan, the country of Morgan.

The Itinerary of Archbishop Baldwin through Wales: Book 1 Chapter 5. At the castle of Usk [Map], a multitude of persons influenced by the archbishop's sermon, and by the exhortations of the good and worthy William bishop of Landaf,65 who faithfully accompanied us through his diocese, were signed with the cross; Alexander archdeacon of Bangor66 acting as interpreter to the Welsh. It is remarkable that many of the most notorious murderers, thieves, and robbers of the neighbourhood were here converted, to the astonishment of the spectators. Passing from thence through Caerleon [Map] and leaving far on our left hand the castle of Monmouth [Map], and the noble forest of Dean, situated on the other side of the Wye and on this side the Severn, and which amply supplies Gloucester with iron and venison, we spent the night at Newport [Map], having crossed the river Usk three times.67 Caerleon [Map] means the city of Legions, Caer, in the British language, signifying a city or camp, for there the Roman legions, sent into this island, were accustomed to winter, and from this circumstance it was styled the city of legions. This city was of undoubted antiquity, and handsomely built of masonry, with courses of bricks, by the Romans. Many vestiges of its former splendour may yet be seen; immense palaces, formerly ornamented with gilded roofs, in imitation of Roman magnificence, inasmuch as they were first raised by the Roman princes, and embellished with splendid buildings; a tower of prodigious size, remarkable hot baths, relics of temples, and theatres, all inclosed within fine walls, parts of which remain standing. You will find on all sides, both within and without the circuit of the walls, subterraneous buildings, aqueducts, underground passages; and what I think worthy of notice, stoves contrived with wonderful art, to transmit the heat insensibly through narrow tubes passing up the side walls.

Note 65. William de Salso Marisco, who succeeded to the bishopric of Llandaff, A.D. 1185, and presided over that see during the time of Baldwin's visitation, in 1188.

Note 66. Alexander was the fourth archdeacon of the see of Bangor.

Note 67. Once at Usk, then at Caerleon, and afterwards on entering the town of Newport.

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Newport, Bassaleg

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Newport, Bassaleg, St Basil's Church

On 11 Mar 1913 Godfrey Morgan 1st Viscount Tredegar (age 81) died unmarried. He was buried at St Basil's Church, Bassaleg. Viscount Tredegar of Tredegar in Monmouthshire extinct. His nephew Courtenay Morgan 1st Viscount Tredegar (age 45) succeeded 3rd Baron Tredegar of Tredegar in Monmouthshire, 5th Baronet Morgan of Tredegar.

Europe, British Isles, Newport, Coedkernew Monmouthshire South East Wales

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Newport, Goldcliff

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Newport, Goldcliff Priory [Map]

1113. Goldcliff Priory, Newport [Map] was a Benedictine monastery in Goldcliff, Newport, South Wales. It was established in 1113 by Robert de Chandos as a subsidiary house of the Abbey of Bec in Normandy.

The Itinerary of Archbishop Baldwin through Wales: Book 1 Chapter 5. Not far hence is a rocky eminence, impending over the Severn, called by the English Gouldcliffe [Map]68 or golden rock, because from the reflections of the sun's rays it assumes a bright golden colour:

"Nec mihi de facili fieri persuasio posset,

Quod frustra tantum dederit natura nito rem

Saxis, quodque suo fuerit flos hic sine fructu."

["And it could not easily persuade me that nature has given such effort in vain to this object, and that this flower, though beautiful, is without fruit of its own."]

Note 68. Gouldcliffe, or Goldcliff [Map], is situated a few miles S.E. of Newport, on the banks of the Severn. In the year 1113, Robert de Candos founded and endowed the church of Goldclive [Map], and, by the advice of king Henry I., gave it to the abbey of Bec, in Normandy; its religious establishment consisted of a prior and twelve monks of the order of St. Benedict.

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Portskewett

Anglo-Saxon Chronicle. 08 Aug 1065. This year, before Lammas, ordered Earl Harold (age 43) his men to build at Portskeweth in Wales. But when he had begun, and collected many materials, and thought to have King Edward (age 62) there for the purpose of hunting, even when it was all ready, came Caradoc, son of Griffin, with all the gang that he could get, and slew almost all that were building there; and they seized the materials that were there got ready. Wist we not who first advised the wicked deed. This was done on the mass-day of St. Bartholomew.

John of Worcester. 24 Aug 1065. In the month of August, Harold (age 43), the brave earl of Wessex, ordered a large mansion to be built at a place called Portascith78, on the territory of the Welsh, and gave directions that it should be well stored with meat and drink, that his lord, king Edward (age 62), might sometimes reside there for the sake of hunting. But Caradoc, son of Griffyth, king of South Wales, who a few years before had slain Griffyth, king of North Wales, and usurped his kingdom, came there with the whole force he could gather, on the feast-day of St. Bartholomew, the apostle [24th August], and slew all the workmen and their overseers, and carried off all the materials which had been collected there.

Note 78. Portskewet, on the coast of Monmouthshire, where there are some relics of a church supposed to have been built by Harold.

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Portskewett, Heston Brake Long Barrow [Map]

Heston Brake Long Barrow is also in Prehistoric Wales Neolithic Burials.

Long Barrows of the Cotswolds. Heston Brake Long Barrow [Map]

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Raglan

Around 1380 William ap Thomas "Blue Knight of Gwent" Herbert was born at Raglan, Monmouthshire.

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Church of St Cadoc Raglan

On 21 Feb 1589 William Somerset 3rd Earl of Worcester (age 63) died at Hackney. He was buried at Church of St Cadoc Raglan, Monmouthshire. His son Edward Somerset 4th Earl of Worcester (age 39) succeeded 4th Earl Worcester, 6th Baron Herbert of Raglan.

On 03 Mar 1628 Edward Somerset 4th Earl of Worcester (age 78) died. He was buried at Church of St Cadoc Raglan, Monmouthshire. His son Henry Somerset 1st Marquess Worcester (age 51) succeeded 5th Earl Worcester, 7th Baron Herbert of Raglan.

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Raglan Castle [Map]

In 1394 Henry Ferrers was born to William Ferrers 5th Baron Ferrers of Groby (age 21) and Philippa Clifford (age 22) at Raglan Castle [Map].

Around 1464 Katherine Herbert Countess Kent was born to William Herbert 1st Earl Pembroke (age 41) and Anne Devereux (age 34) at Raglan Castle [Map].

On 22 Jul 1509 Richard Herbert (age 67) was appointed Constable of Raglan Castle.

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Thornwell [Map]

Europe, British Isles, Tintern Monmouthshire South East Wales

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Trellech

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Trellech, Harold's Stones [Map]

Harold's Stones, Trellech is also in Prehistoric Wales Standing Stones.

Harold's Stones, Trellech [Map]. Three large monoliths. Trellech means ‘the place of the three stones’. The three stones or monoliths lean at different angles to each other and vary in height from 8 feet, 10 feet and almost 13 feet, the tallest stone having sunk into the ground and slipped leaving it at a crazy angle. A fourth standing stone apparently once stood close by but was robbed-away or destroyed in the late 18th century. The stones are made of conglomerate rock that is known as ‘Pudding Stone’.

The central stone of the three has been dressed to smooth its surface, and bears two large cup marks on its face. T. Driver, RCAHMW, 22 Jan 2008.

Long Barrows of the Cotswolds. Harold's Stones, Trellech [Map]

Monmouthshire, 20 N.E. Parish of Trelleck. 114.

Latitude 51° 44' 32". Longitude 2° 43' 31". Height above O.D. about 670 feet.

Mr. J. G. Wood, M.A., F.S.A., points out that these three stones cannot possibly be the remains of a circle, as suggested by Mrs. Bagnal-Oakeley, since the diameter would be 672 feet, far greater than that of the Keswick Circle, and quite impossible here on account of the nature of the ground. With reference to the name "Harold’s Stones" Mr. Wood remarks:— "A stone such as these was called Har-stan, which means old or hoary. Hence Dr. Grifiin (that first class guesser) probably invented 'Harold’s Stones.'"

A plan (reproduced here) elevation and sketch of the stones is amongst the Lukis MSS. in the Lukis Museum, Guernsey. From these it appears that they are oriented in a direction 72 degrees E. of true north. The S.W. stone leans considerably and is eleven feet high. The middle stone is 9 ft. 11 ins. high. The N.E. stone is 8 ft. 3 ins. high. The original drawing is by Sir Henry Dryden, and is dated July 6th, 1841, There are also two copies. The purpose of these short alignments of huge uprights is obscure. Comparisons are suggested with the "Five Kings," near Rothbury, Northumberland, and the "Devil’s Arrows" near Boroughbridge, Yorks.

Rude Stone Monuments in Monmouthshire, by M. E. Bagnall-Oakeley, 1889, pp. 13-15. Plates V. (view) and VI. (plan),

Lukis Collection (MSS), Lukis Museum, Guernsey.

Antiquity 2022 Volume 96.2: Waun Mawn, Pembrokeshire. The first and most convincing element is a three-stone row. The standing stone at the north-western end is marked on the first edition, six-inch Ordnance Survey map published in 1888, and was recorded as being 1.65m high bysurveyors from the Royal Commission on Ancient and Historical Monuments in Wales and Monmouthshire in June 1914 (Site 768 in Royal Commission on Ancient and Historical Monuments in Wales and Monmouthshire 1925: 258–59). The surveyors also noted a prostrate stone, measuring 1.98m in length, approximately 9.14m to the east, and a ‘broken’ stone measuring 1.09m that lay fallen a fur ther 9.14m to the east. The recent excavations found that this last stone seemed to fit stone socket 9, although no packing stones were present (Parker Pearson et al. 2021: figs 2, 4a & 9). The latest date on material associated by the excavators with the removal of stone 9 was 157 BC–AD 17, similar to the latest date of 46 BC–AD 76 on material from a low mound that had accumulated around the emptystone-socket. Residual material of earlier date was present in both, but the combined evidence suggests that stone 9 stood into later prehistoric times. Consistency in the size and spacing of these three stones strongly supports the idea that it represents a partially collapsed, 20m-long, three-stone row. Indeed, Barnatt (1989: 502) suggested such an interpretation for the Waun Mawn stones in an earlier review of stone circles in Britain. Stone rows are widely scattered across south-west Wales (Burl 1993: fig. 38) and, locally, seem to lie on the north side of the Preseli ridge, with stone circles confined to the southern flanks (Darvill & Wainwright 2016: 142–53). The fact that the stones at Waun Mawn lie on a slight arc should elicit no surprise, as this is a common feature of such monuments that is well represented, for example, at Harold’s Stones [Map] near Trellech, Monmouthshire (Crawford 1925: 209–10).

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Usk [Map]

The River Usk rises at Fan Brycheiniog [Map] after which it flows broadly east through Sennybridge [Map], Brecon [Map], then south-east, under Crickhowell Bridge, Monmouthshire [Map], Abergavenny, Monmouthshire [Map], then under the Chain Bridge [Map] at Kemeys Commander, south through Usk, Monmouthshire [Map], under the bridge at Newbridge-on-Usk [Map], past Caerleon [Map] to Newport, Monmouthshire [Map] where it joins the Severn Estuary.

On 12 Feb 1371 Elizabeth Mortimer Baroness Camoys was born to Edmund Mortimer 3rd Earl March, Earl Ulster (age 19) and Philippa Plantagenet Countess March 5th Countess Ulster (age 15) at Usk, Monmouthshire [Map]. She a great granddaughter of King Edward III of England.

On 11 Apr 1374 Roger Mortimer 4th Earl March 6th Earl Ulster was born to Edmund Mortimer 3rd Earl March, Earl Ulster (age 22) and Philippa Plantagenet Countess March 5th Countess Ulster (age 18) at Usk, Monmouthshire [Map]. He a great grandson of King Edward III of England.

Welsh Border Road describes an unamed Roman Road, and unnumbered by Margery, that went from Caerleon [Map] to Wroxeter, Shropshire [Map], passing through Usk, Monmouthshire [Map], Abergavenny, Monmouthshire [Map], Hereford [Map], Mortimer's Cross, Herefordshire [Map], Wigmore, Herefordshire [Map] and Leintwardine Bridge, Herefordshire [Map] where it crosses the River Teme just after its convergence with the River Clun.

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Usk, Pwll Melyn

Around May 1405 Richard Grey 1st or 4th Baron Grey of Codnor (age 34) and Dafydd Gam Brecon (age 25) decisively defeated the Welsh army at the Battle of Pwll Melyn aka Usk. Gruffudd ab Owain Glyndŵr Mathrafal (age 30) was captured. Tudur ap Gruffudd Mathrafal Lord Gwyddelwern (age 48) was killed. The Welsh lost around 1500 men with 300 prisoners being beheaded following the battle. The battle marked the beginning of the end of Owain Glyndŵr's (age 46) revolt.

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Usk Castle [Map]

In 1138 Usk Castle, Monmouthshire [Map] was captured by the Welsh.

In 1184 Usk Castle, Monmouthshire [Map] was captured by the Welsh.

The Itinerary of Archbishop Baldwin through Wales: Book 1 Chapter 5. At the castle of Usk [Map], a multitude of persons influenced by the archbishop's sermon, and by the exhortations of the good and worthy William bishop of Landaf,65 who faithfully accompanied us through his diocese, were signed with the cross; Alexander archdeacon of Bangor66 acting as interpreter to the Welsh. It is remarkable that many of the most notorious murderers, thieves, and robbers of the neighbourhood were here converted, to the astonishment of the spectators. Passing from thence through Caerleon [Map] and leaving far on our left hand the castle of Monmouth [Map], and the noble forest of Dean, situated on the other side of the Wye and on this side the Severn, and which amply supplies Gloucester with iron and venison, we spent the night at Newport [Map], having crossed the river Usk three times.67 Caerleon [Map] means the city of Legions, Caer, in the British language, signifying a city or camp, for there the Roman legions, sent into this island, were accustomed to winter, and from this circumstance it was styled the city of legions. This city was of undoubted antiquity, and handsomely built of masonry, with courses of bricks, by the Romans. Many vestiges of its former splendour may yet be seen; immense palaces, formerly ornamented with gilded roofs, in imitation of Roman magnificence, inasmuch as they were first raised by the Roman princes, and embellished with splendid buildings; a tower of prodigious size, remarkable hot baths, relics of temples, and theatres, all inclosed within fine walls, parts of which remain standing. You will find on all sides, both within and without the circuit of the walls, subterraneous buildings, aqueducts, underground passages; and what I think worthy of notice, stoves contrived with wonderful art, to transmit the heat insensibly through narrow tubes passing up the side walls.

Note 65. William de Salso Marisco, who succeeded to the bishopric of Llandaff, A.D. 1185, and presided over that see during the time of Baldwin's visitation, in 1188.

Note 66. Alexander was the fourth archdeacon of the see of Bangor.

Note 67. Once at Usk, then at Caerleon, and afterwards on entering the town of Newport.

Before 23 Jun 1314 Usk Castle, Monmouthshire [Map] was held by Gilbert de Clare 8th Earl Gloucester 7th Earl Hertford (age 23).

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Vale of Ewyas

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Vale of Ewyas, Llanthony

Europe, British Isles, Monmouthshire South East Wales, Vale of Ewyas, Llanthony Priory [Map]

Around May 1136 Miles Gloucester 1st Earl Hereford founded Llanthony Secunda Priory, Gloucestershire [Map], literally Llanthony Second, as a refuge for the monks of Llanthony Priory [Map] who were suffering repeated attacks from the Welsh.

In 1137 William de Wycombe prior of Llanthony Priory [Map] in its new premises at Gloucester. Allegedly displeased over his strict discipline, the canons deposed him in 1147, but their action was almost certainly due to pressure from their lay patron Roger Fitzmiles 2nd Earl Hereford (age 12).

The Itinerary of Archbishop Baldwin through Wales: Book 1 Chapter 3. In the deep vale of Ewyas,52 which is about an arrow-shot broad, encircled on all sides by lofty mountains, stands the church of Saint John the Baptist [Map], covered with lead, and built of wrought stone; and, considering the nature of the place, not unhandsomely constructed, on the very spot where the humble chapel of David, the archbishop, had formerly stood decorated only with moss and ivy. A situation truly calculated for religion, and more adapted to canonical discipline, than all the monasteries of the British isle. It was founded by two hermits, in honour of the retired life, far removed from the bustle of mankind, in a solitary vale watered by the river Hodeni. From Hodeni it was called Lanhodeni, for Lan signifies an ecclesiastical place. This derivation may appear far-fetched, for the name of the place, in Welsh, is Nanthodeni. Nant signifies a running stream, from whence this place is still called by the inhabitants Landewi Nanthodeni,53 or the church of Saint David upon the river Hodeni. The English therefore corruptly call it Lanthoni, whereas it should either be called Nanthodeni, that is, the brook of the Hodeni, or Lanhodeni, the church upon the Hodeni. Owing to its mountainous situation, the rains are frequent, the winds boisterous, and the clouds in winter almost continual. The air, though heavy, is healthy; and diseases are so rare, that the brotherhood, when worn out by long toil and affliction during their residence with the daughter, retiring to this asylum, and to their mother's54 lap, soon regain their long-wished-for health. For as my Topographical History of Ireland testifies, in proportion as we proceed to the eastward, the face of the sky is more pure and subtile, and the air more piercing and inclement; but as we draw nearer to the westward, the air becomes more cloudy, but at the same time is more temperate and healthy. Here the monks, sitting in their cloisters, enjoying the fresh air, when they happen to look up towards the horizon, behold the tops of the mountains, as it were, touching the heavens, and herds of wild deer feeding on their summits: the body of the sun does not become visible above the heights of the mountains, even in a clear atmosphere, till about the hour of prime, or a little before. A place truly fitted for contemplation, a happy and delightful spot, fully competent, from its first establishment, to supply all its own wants, had not the extravagance of English luxury, the pride of a sumptuous table, the increasing growth of intemperance and ingratitude, added to the negligence of its patrons and prelates, reduced it from freedom to servility; and if the step-daughter, no less enviously than odiously, had not supplanted her mother.

Note 52. If we consider the circumstances of this chapter, it will appear very evidently, that the vale of Ewyas made no part of the actual Itinerary.

Note 53. Landewi Nant Hodeni [Map], or the church of St. David on the Hodni, is now better known by the name of Llanthoni abbey [Map]. A small and rustic chapel, dedicated to St. David, at first occupied the site of this abbey; in the year 1103, William de Laci, a Norman knight, having renounced the pleasures of the world, retired to this sequestered spot, where he was joined in his austere profession by Ernicius, chaplain to queen Maude. In the year 1108, these hermits erected a mean church in the place of their hermitage, which was consecrated by Urban, bishop of Llandaff, and Rameline, bishop of Hereford, and dedicated to St. John the Baptist: having afterward received very considerable benefactions from Hugh de Laci, and gained the consent of Anselm, archbishop of Canterbury, these same hermits founded a magnificent monastery for Black canons, of the order of St. Augustine, which they immediately filled with forty monks collected from the monasteries of the Holy Trinity in London, Merton in Surrey, and Colchester in Essex. They afterwards removed to Gloucester, where they built a church and spacious monastery, which, after the name of their former residence, they called Llanthoni; it was consecrated A.D. 1136, by Simon, bishop of Worcester, and Robert Betun bishop of Hereford, and dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Note 54. The titles of mother and daughter are here applied to the mother church in Wales, and the daughter near Gloucester.

In 1530 the Prior of Llanthony Priory [Map] sent cheese, carp and baked lampreys to Henry VIII (age 38) at Windsor, Berkshire [Map].

In 1542 Llanthony Priory [Map] was given to Arthur Porter (age 37) during the Dissolution of the Monasteries.