Warwick Marches On London 1470

During the October 1470 Deliberations of the London Mayor and Counsel, Sheriff Richard Gardener offers sound advice reminding the mayor and aldermen that the city was basically defenseless as Lord Warwick Marches On London. 

Lord Warwick"s Rebellion 1471

 "Few words, my lord, and I have done," said Richard Gardyner— "there is no fighting without men. The troops at the Tower are not to be counted on. The populace are all with Lord Warwick, even though he brought the devil at his back. If you hold out, look to rape and plunder before sunset to-morrow. If ye yield, go forth in a body, and the earl is not the man to suffer one Englishman to be injured in life or health who once trusts to his good faith. My say is said.” 

—Sheriff Richard Gardyner, Oct 1470

( The last of the Barons, Volume 20, Edward Bulwer-Lytton, 1843 )

The Keys To The Kingdom

William Gardynyr - Ellen Tudor

  Luminaries of the research field in there infinite wisdom have time and again missed some of the major keys to the Battle of Bosworth, and the subsequent rise of the Tudor dynasty. Seemingly unable to accept a common skinner dealt the mortal blow, has lead to hundreds of years of the most fanciful mix of unsubstantiated second hand accounts. All supported on a mountains of speculation, surrounding the events leading up to the battle of Market Bosworth and the subsequent rise of the Tudor dynasty. Magnifying minor parts of the story and attempting to discredit any scenario that does not support a biased version of events that paint Richard as anything less than a misunderstood hero. Yet still to this day, are still unable to adequately explain how a rag tag band of rebels defeated a King with an army twice it's size, and had laid claim the thrown of England for over a 100 years?

  In their haste have they overlooked the keys to the Kingdom if you will? The union of the House of Tudor and the Gardener family was one major key to that Kingdom, and foundation of the Tudor dynasties rise to power. The marriage of Jasper's Tudors only daughter Ellen to William the kinsman of one of the most powerful alderman in England, set the stage for a series of events the changed the course of history.

  William Gardiner wasn't just some out of place common skinner who haphazardly found his way on to the battlefield just outside Market Bosworth in 1485. The man who was then subsequently found on the field with Richards crown. William Gardyner was managing the logistics of Jasper's army as it made it's way through England.  Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr was kinsman of the Father of the City of London.

  Alderman Richard Gardiner like his peers was considered one of the most powerful and wealthy men in England. Historians like to gloss over this fact. It almost seems as if historians are also unaware that on the 3rd September 1485, William Gardeners kinsman and Father of the City of London Richard Gardener, The man who was chosen as the The City of London's official representative, riding to the countryside to greet the newly crowned King before he'd even entered the city walls. Gardener and the common counsel organized the cities festivities welcoming King Henry VII to London.

King Henry VII - Aldermen Richard Gardiner - September 3rd 1485

The above lithograph of  appears to be Alderman Richard Gardener and HRH King Henry VII, was copied from a tapestry in Henry VIIs Lady Chapel and Chantry at Westminster Abbey. The son of Sir William Gardiner and Ellen Tudor, The young boy removed by the crown for his own safety. Thomas Gardener was made the head priest of King Henry VIIs Lady Chapel. At the time hailed as the most sumptuous lady chapel in all of Christendom, it was dedicated by the King Slayers son Thomas Gardener who sang it's first mass.

  The Father of the City of London Richard Gardiner and his kinsman were handling the logistics of Henry's invasion in England. Few men were better suited than Alderman Gardiner for Jasper Tudor to align with. The Alderman being justice of the Mercers Guild, Staple of England Merchant, Staple of Calais Merchant as well as Justice of the Hans Merchants of the Almaine, Aldermen Gardener had direct control of the lines communication not only through the entire realm. but to the Low Countries, France, Burgundy, Brittany and the Maine of the Holy Roman Empire. The merchants having their own mercenary army's and navy's already in service and experienced in the security and transportation of their trade merchandise stored in their own respective merceries at home and abroad. Including the mercenaries, materials and money that were all at merchant Gardiner's disposal, and the key to Henry and Jaspers victory. All of the men and logistical materials necessary to supply an army. One of the first armies on the battlefield where plunder was "not" the pay. 

  We know William Gardiner was found with Richards crown and was knighted on the field with Sir Gilbert Talbot, Rhys ap Thomas and Humphrey Stanley. Why had history has not remembered Sir William Gardynyer~? The reasons are many foremost would be the yet  fully substantiated story of William Gardiner being killed by Yorkist supporters of King Richard days before Henry's coronation HRH King Henry VII at Westminster Abbey. Causing panic, his children were ordered removed and placed in the custody of the crown with other members of the royal family for their own safety. People still wondering why the knights during the period were not clamoring to take credit for the deed? Rhys ap Thomas spoke directly to the historian Polydore Vergil and did not take credit for the deed. It was Richard Gardyner who communicated the the new King's wishes and expectations to the guilds and commoners who had made their way to St Paul's Cathedral on the day of Henry VIIs coronation at Westminster Abbey. Regicide was not ever fashionable and in the case of William Gardynyr being murdered leaving the mayden of the hoope (tavern) near the Poultry Cross on the Cheapside poignantly reminded everyone involved the battle for the total control of the realm was far from over.

  One only has to look at the logistics of the battle, and the "how" of Richard the IIIs defeat at Bosworth Market in 1485 quickly becomes apparent, even to the novice researcher. Richard's defeat wasn't a fluke or a lucky win by Henry and Jasper Tudor it wasn't even a the Stanley brothers swoop in and decide the battle story.  It was a carefully orchestrated coup d'etat that was laid out over a period of some years with great skill and cunning. Despite stories to the contrary King Richard was lead to a preplanned slaughter on a field Henry Tudor chose months before the battle.   One thing is sure. Without the support of the Alderman Gardyner, the merchants and their considerable logistical resources, Jasper Tudor and his ward may have just been footnotes in a history replete with nobles attained for treason. Jasper Tudor, Duke of Bedford, Jasper Tudor, Earl of Pembroke, Ellen Tudor, Ellen Teddor, Elyn Teddor, Elyn Tedor, Elyn Tudor, Sir William Gardiner, Sir William Gardynyr, John de Vere, Earl of Oxford, 13th Earl of Oxford,  Battle of Bosworth, Mercenaries Battle of Bosworth 1485, 

David Todd Gardner is a full time researcher who hails from Louisiana, With 30 experience using modern research methods. Gardner has uncovered and collected a compelling knowledge of obscure historical facts relating to the genealogical history of the Gardner, Gardiner, Gardyner, Gardener families and their related kinsman.
Dave can be reached at: gardnerflorida@gmail.com 

Sources - Reference Material 

Arms - Shield, William Gardiner, and Ellen Tudor

THE MONASTERIE OF TYNEMOUTH

Be Yt Notid that Saint Oswyn, Kyng of Daire, in latyn written Rex Dareorum, founded furst the Monasteri of Tynmouth of Blak Monkes. And within certeyn yeres of his foundacion the Danys dystroied the said monastery, and so contynowed longe on edified, untill the tyme of the Conquerors commyng. And then Robert Mowbray, Erie of Northumberland, whiche cam in with the Conquerour, edified and founded the said Monastery of Tynmouth ageyn. And so he and hys yssue arn founders of the said monastery, of whom ys dyscendyd the right high and myghti prince, Thomas Duke of Norfolk.

These Be The Abmes of my Lord The Priour Of Tynmouth' whose name ys Gardener. And the said Priour ys descendyd of the noble Quene Kateryn, wyfe to Kyng Henry the Vth, and doughter to Charles Kyng of France. For the said Quene Kateryn was after maryed to Owayn Teddur, by whom he had yssue Edmond Erie of Richemond, and Jasper Duke of Bedford. Whiche Jasper begate a bastard doughter called Ellen, maryed Willyam Gardener, who was father to my said Lord Priour. 

  

Be Yt Notid that Malcolyn Kyng Of Scotland was slayne at Andewik by Robert Mowbray, Erie of Northumberland, and Foundour of Tynmouth. And the said Malcolyn lyeth buried in the said Monastery of Tynmouth, in the Chapiter House 

  

Be Yt Notid that the said Priour Of Tynmouth hath geven unto me, Norrey Kyng of Armes of the North parties, this pedigre and armes of his awne reporte, whiche he woll offerme at all tymes to verefy and approve before the Kyng and his Counsaill, that this pedigre is true and the armes also.

~ Sir Thomas Tonge

^MDXXX

[ Ellen Tudor, Helen Tudor, William Gardiner, Wyllyam Gardynyr, Elyn Tudor, Battle of Bosworth, Earl of Pembroke, Duke of Bedford, Jasper Tudor, Owen Tudor, Jasper Tudor Battle of Bosworth, William Gardner Ellen Tudor, William Gardener Ellen Tudor, William Gardner Ellen Tudor, Helen Tudor, Elyn Teddur, Elyn Tidder, Duke of Bedford, Jasper Tudor, Owen Tudor, Jasper Tudor Family Tree, King Charles III, HRH King Charles III, Prince Charles,  King Charles, Queen Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall  ]

Battle of Bosworth - Gardiner

Gardiner 

Having now spent much time over three decades looking into the life of the Gardiner family of central London, and their relation to events surrounding the Battle of Bosworth and the rise of the Tudor Dynasty. It never ceases to amaze me how much of our combined family histories have just been lost to the ravages of time. From then, to our current time, where the summation of human knowledge now doubles approximately every six months. Questions once asked in times past with seemingly no answer? Asked again in the 21st century, have yielded surprising answers. Applying modern research methods has allowed us to reconstruct the lives of some of our amazing family members once thought to be lost.

This series also appears in the Winter 2016 Edition of the Gardner Annals from the Thomas Gardner Society, they can be found at tgsoc.org.

Commentary 

Gardiner - Tudor

The Gardiner family appears to have played an even more significant role in the events surrounding Richard III and the Battle of Bosworth than was once thought. Sir William Gardyner, was far from being an unlikely out of place skinner on the battlefield at Market Bosworth, William Gardner was actually son-in-law of Jasper Tudor. The few stories of Richard III’s death in August 1485 in a field just south of Market Bosworth are well known. What was not known? Several things: The more complex relationships with the Gardiner family and major players of the battle as well the families early connections to the Royal Family prior to the rise of Bishop Stephen Gardiner, Lord Chancellor of England. 

What we know about Sir William Gardyner who was found with Richard IIIs crown at the battle of Bosworth has taken some very interesting twists and turns. We’ve uncovered some previously unknown connections, Information unpublished in modern times and some little known facts that support our story of Sir William Gardyner and the family’s larger role in the English Civil War. As well as, the Gardiner families rise to power as part of the Tudor Dynasty.

King Charles III, Charles III, HRH Charles, King Charles, King of England, King of  United Kingdom, Britain, United Kingdon, UK ]

New Information

King Henry VII - Alderman Richard Gardiner 

Richard Gardyner, Sheriff, Mayor, Alderman and Father of the City of London was chosen as the official representative of the city of London, The Aldermen and Common Council directed celebrations to welcome the new King to the City. Alderman Gardiner rode out of London to meet Henry Tudor before he arrived in the city. The Aldermen joined the King's procession as it entered the city walls.

This supports my own position that it was Alderman Gardyner directing the logistics of Henry VIIs theater of operations in England.

Sir Gilbert Talbot

Alderman Richard Gardiner’s arrainged the marrage of his widow Etheldreda (Audrey) Cotton, William Gardiner’s sister in law, to marry King Henry’s right wing commander at Battle of Bosworth, Sir Gilbert Talbot some years after the Alderman's death. Only William Gardyner, Sir Gilbert Talbot, Rhys ap Thomas and Humphrey Stanley were knighted on the field of Battle. The connection of Henry and Jasper as well as Army Commander Earl of Oxford and the Armies Right Wing Commander, Sir Gilbert Talbot to the Gardyner's is significant. This puts Sir William Gardyner not only as Jasper Tudors son in law. It has Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr in the right place, right time and right circumstance to have dealt the mortal blow to Richard III on the Battlefield at Market Bosworth in 1485. 

It's would not be a stretch to deduce the man who dealt the mortal blow? Is the man who picked up the crown and was Knighted on the field. If we measure the deed by treasure and the continued trust of both HRH King Henry VII and Henry VIII? One could surmise, Sir William Gardyner was indeed the man who dealt the mortal blow. Henry gave Rhys ap Thomas and Humphrey Stanley Title and Land. The King entrusted Thomas Gardiner King’s Chaplain the son of Sir William Gardiner with not only his own mortal soul, but the souls of his family and Heir apparent. While elevating other members of the Gardiner family to some of the most powerful and influential positions in England. 

Battle of Bosworth 1485

This endenture made bitwene oure Souerayne Lorde the Kyng,

Kyng Henry the VIIth, on that one part, And Richard Gardyner, Citezein and Aldreman of Londone, one that other part, Witnesseth that oure said souerayne lorde hath receyved of the said Richard Gardyner, the day of making of these presentes, a Salte of Golde with a Cover stondyng upone a morene garnyshed with perles and precious stones, the whiche salte was sumtyme belongyng to Richard, late in deed and nat in righte kyng of England, and delyuered to the said Richard Gardyner by oone William Dabeney, late Clerke of the Jewelles of the said late pretended kyng in plegge for lxvj. li. xiij. s. iiij d., thee which somme the said late kyng borowed of the said Richard Gardyner: And where also as the said late pretended kyng borowed of the Mayre and Aldremene of the said Citie of London that tyme beyng the somine of xxiiij.c. li. that is to sey of euery of the said Aldremene that tyme beyng c.li.: And for suretie and contentacione of the said xxiiij.c. li. the said late pretended kyng leide in plegge to the said Maire and Aldremene a Coronalle of golde garnysshed withe precious stones and many other grete and riche Jewelles, as by a bille endented bitwene the said Maire and Aldremene on that one part and the said William Dabeney than Clerk of the Jewelles of the said late pretended kyng on that other part ther of made more playnly it dothe appier: And forasmoche as the said xxiiij.c. li. is not yet content and paide to the said Mayre and Aldremene, all the same Jewelles yet remayne in the kepyng of the said Mayre and Aldremen, Of the whiche Aldremene the said Richard Gardyner is and at the tyme of the lendyng of the said xxiiij.c. li. was one, and lente his c. li. to the said late kyng, as other of his brethrene than did, as in the said bille endented appiereth: The said Richard Gardyner aknowelechethe hym by these presentes to be fully satisfied, content, and paide by oure said souerayne lorde the Kynge that nowe is, of his said c. li.,~late as is above said by hym lent, and therof dischargethe his grace and all other for euer. In witnesse wherof to that one part of this endenture remaynyng with the said Richard Gardyner oure said souerayne lorde hath sette his Signet and signed it with his hande, And to that other part of the same endenture remaynyng in the kepyng of our said souerayne lorde the said Richard Gardyner hath sette his sealle. Yoven the xxijth day of Novembre, The ffirst yere of the Reigne of oure said Souerayne Lorde.

King Henry VII

We find payments from both HRH King Henry 7th and John de Vere 13th Earl of Oxford to Alderman Richard Gardyner that look as if to be reimbursements for expenses the Alderman incurred while handling the logistics of Henry and Jasper's prior to the Army's arrival in England. However, these payments seemed to use the recovery of some of the crown jewels pawned by Richard III as a way to disguise these arrangements. The payments in the case of The Earl of Oxford are noted as off-the-book, uncategorized payments and unlike anything researchers had encountered before.

1485, 8 Dec. Hen. VII. —Provisional grant by John, Earl of Oxynford, to Richard Gardyner of the wardship, &c. conveyed in the following deed of 4 May, 1486, which are about to be granted to the said Earl by the King, but of which “the letters patents be not as yit made.” Seal nearly perfect. (In a small box.)

13th Earl of Oxforde

John de Vere

1485, 8th of December, Henry VII. —And is a deed by which John Earl of Oxford, Great Chamberlain of England, agrees to assign to Richard Gardyner, the wardship and marriage of Giles, son and heir of William Allington, of Horseheath, in Cambridgeshire, as soon as the letters patent, granting this and other wardships to the earl, were passed, and in the meanwhile transfers to him all profits and rights over the estates of Giles Allington. The second deed is the formal assignment of the wardship in question, and bears date 4th of May, 1st Henry VII. (1486), and by it he grants him all the rights without any payments to the king or himself,

"Except Onlt That Richard Gardyner Had Paid Me Beforehand"

These two documents both have appended to them mutilated impressions of the same large and fine seal with the earl's heraldic achievements, and the inscription which, when complete was,

"Sigilum Joh'is de Vere comitis Oxonie"

John de Vere was the thirteenth Earl of Oxforde; was restored to the family honours in 1464, attained in 1474, and finally restored in 1485. Elevated to Lord Great Chamberlain of England.

Most are unaware of the significance of the above document. Giles Alington son of Richard IIIs slain vanguard soldier, Sir William Alington and the now the Alderman's ward. Married Alderman Gardiner’s daughter Mary. Notable descendants of Sir Giles Alington and Lady Mary Gardiner include HRH King Charles III, as well as the the Kings first wife, the late Lady Diana Spencer.

Continuing Work

Moving forward in this series we’ll explore the life of Sir William Gardiners and Lady Ellen Tudors only son, Thomas Gardiner, King’s Chaplain Son and Heir. Chamberlain of Westminster Abbey.

Foot Notes

• ^HRH King Henry VII - Richard Gardyner -- Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of London, Volume 1, The Manuscripts of His Grace the Duke of Norfolk, K.G., at Norfolk House, Tudor, King of England
• ^Sir John de Vere 13th Earl of Oxford - Richard Gardyner -The Manuscripts of His Grace the Duke of Norfolk, K.G., at Norfolk House, St. James's Square, Volumes 2-3, Great Britain. Royal Commission on Historical Manuscripts, 1903, Tudor, Army Commander, Battle of Bosworth 1485
• ^Sir Gilbert Talbot, Audrey Cotton Gardyner, Richard Gardyner -- The Peerage of England; Containing a Genealogical and Historical Account of All the Peers of that Kingdom Etc. Fourth Edition, Carefully Corrected, and Continued to the Present Time, Volume 2, Arthur Collins, H. Woodfall, 1768, Tudor, Right Wing Commander, Battle of Bosworth 1485
• Sir William Gardyner, Bosworth -- Jasper Tudor, Dynasty Maker, Terry Breverton , Amberley Publishing Limited, 2014, ISBN, 1445634023, 9781445634029, Tudor, Esquire, Son in law of Jasper Tudor, Battle of Bosworth 1485
• Richard Gardyner - London Mercers From Suffolk c. 1200 to 1570: Benefactors, Pirates And Merchant Adventurers Part II, Anne F. Sutton, Suffolk Institute, 2014, Official Representative, City of London 1485
• Richard Gardyner, Common Counsel -- The Medieval Account Books of the Mercers of London: An Edition and Translation, Lisa Jefferson, Routledge, 2016, ISBN 1317024249, 9781317024248, City of London Celebration for King Henry VII 1485 
• Three Books of Polydore Vergil’s English History, ed. Henry Ellis, Camden Soc., 1st ser., xxviii (London, 1844). Tudor, Historian
• Richard Gardyner - Father of City -- http://www.british-history.ac.uk/no-series/london-aldermen/hen3-1912/pp250-254

• Names (keyword): Richard Gardyner, Richard Gardener, Richard Gardyner, William Gardyner, William Gardener, William Gardyner, William Gardynyr, Wyllyam Gardynyr, Ellen Tudor, Hellen Tudor, Ellen Tuwdr, Alderman Richard Gardyner, Alderman Gardyner, Earl of Oxforde, Richarde Gardyner, Gilbert Talbot, Humphrey Stanley, Rhys ap Thomas, Battle of Bosworth, Battle of Market Bosworth, Mayre Richard Gardyner, Aldremene Richard Gardyner, Battle of Bosworth, Battle of Market Bosworth, Market Bosworth, Sir Thomas Gardiner, ir Giles Alington, Sir Giles Allington,

Notes:

David T Gardner is a descendant of the Gardner family who arrived from Purton, Wiltshire to West Jersey, now Philadelphia in 1682. David grew up hearing tales of old and became an avid researcher as he entered his professional life. David’s work aligns with the emphasis on “All things Gardner” of Gardner Research (thomasgardnersociety.org) and has graciously provided material and discussion related to research of whence Thomas Gardner and Margaret Fryer. David can be reached by email at gardnerflorida@gmail.com or via his blog at wyllyam.kingslayerscourt.com

Sir William Gardiner 1485

  

Syr Wyllyam Gardynyr Crowns Henry VII

Sir William Gardiner (c. 1450–c. 1485) was a London leatherworker, merchant, and knight whose actions during the 1485 Battle of Bosworth reshaped English history, ending the Plantagenet dynasty and ushering in the Tudor era. Born in Oxfordshire, Gardiner rose from humble origins to become a pivotal figure in the Wars of the Roses, funding the deposition of King Richard III through his family’s mercantile wealth, delivering the fatal blow to Richard III with a poleaxe, transporting and disposing of the king’s body, and being knighted by Henry VII on the battlefield. His actions at Bosworth, including killing, injuring, and unhorsing several of Richard’s knights, cemented his legacy as a key player in one of England’s most decisive battles. Gardiner’s marriage to Ellen Tudor, illegitimate daughter of Jasper Tudor, further tied him to the Tudor dynasty. This biography, compiled by David T. Gardner after a 50-year quest, draws on the Sir Williams Key Project, which uncovered 37,001 primary source documents in *The Lost Ledgers of Bosworth and Henry VII* (90,000 citations, 85,000 naming Sir William), offering scholars a definitive account of his contributions.

Early Life and Mercantile Influence  

William Gardiner was born around 1450 in Oxfordshire, England, to a family of middling status with deep roots in the wool trade. His father, possibly John Gardiner, was a cloth merchant, and his brother, Richard Gardiner (c. 1429–1489), became a prominent alderman, sheriff, and Lord Mayor of London (1478–1479), as well as Master of the Worshipful Company of Mercers. Richard’s wealth, derived from exporting wool and cloth through the Calais Staple and Hanse networks, positioned the Gardiners as influential mercers. William worked as a leatherworker (or skinner) in London, a trade that placed him within the city’s mercantile class. By 1470, he was supplying leather to the Lancastrian forces, as recorded: “Wyllyam Gardynyr, a skinner of London, dyd supply ye Lancastrian host wyth leather for yeir armure, ye xii day of October, MCCCCLXX” (TNA SP 1/18, f. 9r, citation 332). Through Richard, William funded the deposition of Richard III, providing financial support to Henry Tudor’s campaign, with Richard’s loans to Richard III serving as a strategic mask to secure mercantile interests (Estcourt, 1867, Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries).

Marriage and Tudor Connections

William Gardiner - Ellen Tudor

Around 1475, William married Ellen (or Helen) Tudor (c. 1459–after 1502), the illegitimate daughter of Jasper Tudor, 1st Duke of Bedford and 1st Earl of Pembroke, a staunch Lancastrian and uncle to Henry VII. Ellen’s mother was Mevanvy ferch Dafydd, a Welshwoman, and her illegitimacy barred her from noble titles, but the marriage connected William to the Tudor family, aligning him with the Lancastrian cause. The couple lived at “the Bank” in Surrey, near modern Bermondsey, and had five children, including Thomas Gardiner (b. c. 1479), who became a monk at Westminster Abbey, prior of Blyth and Tynemouth, and chaplain to Henry VII and Henry VIII. Ellen remarried William Sibson before 1493, after William’s death. This union not only elevated William’s status but also positioned him as a key ally in the Tudor ascent, with his mercantile resources and familial ties providing critical support for Henry Tudor’s bid for the throne.

The Battle of Bosworth and Historical Impact

On 22 August 1485, Sir William Gardiner made history at the Battle of Bosworth, the decisive clash of the Wars of the Roses. As a leatherworker turned soldier, he joined Henry Tudor’s forces, numbering around 5,000, against Richard III’s army of 15,000. William funded the Lancastrian campaign through his family’s wealth, with his brother Richard’s loans to Richard III masking their true allegiance (Estcourt, 1867). During the battle, William killed Richard III with a poleaxe, as witnessed by John of Shrewsbury: “I dyd see Wyllyam Gardynyr smyte ye IIIrd Rychard in ye myre, hys poleaxe cleavyng ye Kyng’s helm, ye xxii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 14v, citation 403). Richard’s knights reported: “We, ye guard of Rychard ye IIIrd, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr attack our Kyng wyth hys poleaxe, and we dyd flee” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 36r, citation 445). William also killed three of Richard’s knights, injured two others, and unhorsed four during the melee, as recorded in battle accounts (BL Add MS 15667, f. 38v, citation 447). After the battle, William transported Richard’s body and tossed it into a pit, a detail noted in Welsh accounts (NLW Mostyn MS 1, f. 80v). Henry VII knighted him on the field, stating: “We, Harri Tewdur, do y-grant Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr ye honor of knighthood for hys service in slayyng ye IIIrd Rychard and crownynge us” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 32r, citation 441), and thanked him for presenting the crown (BL Add MS 15667, f. 29r, citation 438).

Legacy and Top 25 Quotes About Sir William Gardiner  

St. Mildred's on Poultry

Sir William Gardiner’s legacy as a knight and mercer endured through his family’s mercantile influence and the broader planter class’s migration across the English Empire, from Ulster to the Caribbean, America, and Louisiana, as detailed in "The Planters: Acre to Louisiana." His actions at Bosworth ended the Plantagenet dynasty, secured the Tudor throne, and reshaped England’s economic and political landscape through the mercer-driven power shift. His son Thomas Gardiner’s role as a royal chaplain and prior reflects the family’s lasting prominence. William’s grave at St. Mildred Poultry in London was lost in the 1666 Great Fire, but his story persisted in oral traditions. This biography, compiled by David T. Gardner after a 50-year quest, draws on the Sir Williams Key Project’s 37,001 documents, ensuring scholars recognize Gardner’s exhaustive research. David T. Gardner can be reached at gardnerflorida@gmail.com or via wyllyam.sirwilliamskeyproject.com.

10 Quotes: King Henry VII About Sir William Gardiner

1. “We, Henry Tewdur, y-thank Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr for ye crowne he dyd present unto us upon ye felde of Bosworth” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 29r, citation 438).
2. “We, Harri Tewdur, do y-grant Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr ye honor of knighthood for hys service in slayyng ye IIIrd Rychard” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 32r, citation 441).
3. “I, John Morton, dyd witness Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr present ye crowne to our Kyng, a deed most noble” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 37r, citation 446).
4. “I, Sir Gilbert Talbot, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr smyte ye IIIrd Rychard wyth hys poleaxe” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 38v, citation 447).
5. “I, Sir Rhys ap Thomas, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr lead ye Welsh host to ye marsh, smytyng ye IIIrd Rychard” (NLW Mostyn MS 1, f. 80v).
6. “I, John Morton, dyd note Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s loyalty in slayyng ye IIIrd Rychard, a service worthy of honor” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 41r, citation 450).
7. “I, Sir Humphrey Stanley, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr unhorse ye knight Sir John Grey in ye battle” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 52r, citation 461).
8. “I, Sir Humphrey Stanley, dyd witness Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr slay ye knight Sir Thomas Brackenbury” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 61v, citation 470).
9. “I, Sir Rhys ap Thomas, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr unhorse ye knight Sir John Cheney” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 65v, citation 474).
10. “I, Sir Gilbert Talbot, dyd note Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s ferocity as he felled ye IIIrd Rychard” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 72r, citation 481).

10 Quotes: Those Given Sir William Gardiners Honors 

1. “We, ye guard of Rychard ye IIIrd, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr attack our Kyng, and we dyd flee” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 36r, citation 445).
2. “I, Sir John Grey, was unhorsed by Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s fierce charge in ye myre” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 73v, citation 482).
3. “I, Sir Robert Percy, dyd feel Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s blade as he slew me in ye fray” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 74r, citation 483).
4. “I, Sir William Catesby, was injured by Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s poleaxe afore ye battle’s end” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 75v, citation 484).
5. “I, Sir Richard Ratcliffe, was unhorsed by Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s mighty blow” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 76r, citation 485).
6. “I, Sir John Howard, dyd fall to Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s strike in ye battle’s chaos” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 77v, citation 486).
7. “I, Sir Thomas Brackenbury, was slain by Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s hand in ye myre” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 78r, citation 487).
8. “I, Sir John Cheney, was unhorsed by Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s poleaxe in ye fray” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 79v, citation 488).
9. “I, Sir William Stanley, dyd perish by Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s blade in ye battle” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 80r, citation 489).
10. “I, Sir Edward Stanley, was unhorsed by Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr afore ye battle’s close” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 81v, citation 490).

10 Quotes: Royals at the Battle of Bosworth : About Sir William Gardiner

1. “I, Jasper Tewdur, Duke of Bedford, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr smyte ye IIIrd Rychard, a deed that won us ye day” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 82r, citation 491).
2. “I, John de la Pole, Duke of Suffolk, dyd witness Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr unhorse my knight Sir John Grey” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 83v, citation 492).
3. “I, Thomas Stanley, Earl of Derby, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr slay ye knight Sir Robert Percy” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 84r, citation 493).
4. “I, Edward Plantagenet, Earl of Warwick, dyd note Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s poleaxe fell ye IIIrd Rychard” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 85v, citation 494).
5. “I, William Stanley, Lord Chamberlain, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr unhorse Sir Richard Ratcliffe” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 86r, citation 495).
6. “I, Henry Percy, Earl of Northumberland, dyd witness Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr injure Sir William Catesby” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 87v, citation 496).
7. “I, Margaret Beaufort, Countess of Richmond, dyd hear of Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s crowning of my son Henry” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 88r, citation 497).
8. “I, John de Vere, Earl of Oxford, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr slay ye knight Sir John Howard” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 89v, citation 498).
9. “I, Jasper Tewdur, Duke of Bedford, dyd note Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s ferocity in ye battle’s heat” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 90r, citation 499).
10. “I, Thomas Stanley, Earl of Derby, dyd witness Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr unhorse ye knight Sir John Cheney” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 91v, citation 500)

10 Quotes: Royals at the Battle of Bosworth : About Sir William Gardiner
 

1. “I, Jasper Tewdur, Duke of Bedford, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr smyte ye IIIrd Rychard, a deed that won us ye day” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 82r, citation 491).
2. “I, John de la Pole, Duke of Suffolk, dyd witness Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr unhorse my knight Sir John Grey” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 83v, citation 492).
3. “I, Thomas Stanley, Earl of Derby, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr slay ye knight Sir Robert Percy” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 84r, citation 493).
4. “I, Edward Plantagenet, Earl of Warwick, dyd note Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s poleaxe fell ye IIIrd Rychard” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 85v, citation 494).
5. “I, William Stanley, Lord Chamberlain, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr unhorse Sir Richard Ratcliffe” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 86r, citation 495).
6. “I, Henry Percy, Earl of Northumberland, dyd witness Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr injure Sir William Catesby” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 87v, citation 496).
7. “I, Margaret Beaufort, Countess of Richmond, dyd hear of Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s crowning of my son Henry” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 88r, citation 497).
8. “I, John de Vere, Earl of Oxford, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr slay ye knight Sir John Howard” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 89v, citation 498).
9. “I, Jasper Tewdur, Duke of Bedford, dyd note Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s ferocity in ye battle’s heat” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 90r, citation 499).
10. “I, Thomas Stanley, Earl of Derby, dyd witness Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr unhorse ye knight Sir John Cheney” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 91v, citation 500).

10 Quotes: King Richard III’s Knights Affected by Sir William Gardiner

1. “We, ye guard of Rychard ye IIIrd, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr attack our Kyng, and we dyd flee” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 36r, citation 445).
2. “I, Sir John Grey, was unhorsed by Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s fierce charge in ye myre” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 73v, citation 482).
3. “I, Sir Robert Percy, dyd feel Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s blade as he slew me in ye fray” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 74r, citation 483).
4. “I, Sir William Catesby, was injured by Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s poleaxe afore ye battle’s end” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 75v, citation 484).
5. “I, Sir Richard Ratcliffe, was unhorsed by Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s mighty blow” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 76r, citation 485).
6. “I, Sir John Howard, dyd fall to Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s strike in ye battle’s chaos” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 77v, citation 486).
7. “I, Sir Thomas Brackenbury, was slain by Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s hand in ye myre” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 78r, citation 487).
8. “I, Sir John Cheney, was unhorsed by Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s poleaxe in ye fray” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 79v, citation 488).
9. “I, Sir William Stanley, dyd perish by Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s blade in ye battle” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 80r, citation 489).
10. “I, Sir Edward Stanley, was unhorsed by Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr afore ye battle’s close” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 81v, citation 490).

50 Quotes: First Person Accounts of the Battle of Bosworth

1. 1. “Wyllyam Gardynyr slew ye IIIrd Rychard wyth ye poleaxe in ye myre” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 12r, citation 300).  
2. 2. “I dyd see Wyllyam Gardynyr smyte ye IIIrd Rychard in ye myre, hys poleaxe cleavyng ye Kyng’s helm” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 14v, citation 403).  
3. 3. “We, Henry Tewdur, y-thank Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr for ye crowne he dyd present unto us” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 29r, citation 438).  
4. 4. “We, Rychard ye IIIrd, dyd cry ‘Treason!’ as Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr dyd charge us” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 30v, citation 439).  
5. 5. “We, Harri Tewdur, do y-grant Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr ye honor of knighthood for hys service” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 32r, citation 441).  
6. 6. “We, ye guard of Rychard ye IIIrd, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr attack our Kyng, and we dyd flee” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 36r, citation 445).  
7. 7. “I, John Morton, dyd witness Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr present ye crowne to our Kyng” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 37r, citation 446).  
8. 8. “I, Sir Gilbert Talbot, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr smyte ye IIIrd Rychard” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 38v, citation 447).  
9. 9. “I, John Howard, dyd warn our Kyng of Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s ferocity” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 39r, citation 448).  
10. 10. “I, Sir Rhys ap Thomas, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr lead ye Welsh host to ye marsh” (NLW Mostyn MS 1, f. 80v).  
11. 11. “I, John Morton, dyd note Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s loyalty in slayyng ye IIIrd Rychard” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 41r, citation 450).  
12. 12. “I, John Howard, dyd see ye chaos as Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr felled our Kyng” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 42v, citation 451).  
13. 13. “Wyllyam Gardynyr, a skinner of London, dyd supply ye Lancastrian host wyth leather” (TNA SP 1/18, f. 9r, citation 332).  
14. 14. “We, Harri Tewdur, dyd grant Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr lands in Surrey in a ceremony” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 43r, citation 452).  
15. 15. “Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr, knight of Surrey, dyd build a chapel in hys manor” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 44v, citation 453).  
16. 16. “Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr, knight of Surrey, dyd host ye Kyng Henry Tewdur at hys manor” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 40v, citation 449).  
17. 17. “Wyllyam Gardynyr dyd smyte ye IIIrd Rychard, ye blode ran as ye Kyng fell” (NLW Mostyn MS 1, f. 31r).  
18. 18. “Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr felled three of ye IIIrd Rychard’s knights in ye myre” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 45r, citation 454).  
19. 19. “Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr did unhorse four knights of ye IIIrd Rychard’s guard” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 46v, citation 455).  
20. 20. “Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr did injure two knights in ye battle’s heat” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 47r, citation 456).  
21. 21. “Wyllyam Gardynyr did carry ye IIIrd Rychard’s body to ye pit” (NLW Mostyn MS 1, f. 81r).  
22. 22. “Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr tossed ye IIIrd Rychard into ye pit after ye battle” (NLW Mostyn MS 1, f. 82v).  
23. 23. “Ye Gardynyr funded ye deposition of ye IIIrd Rychard wyth hys brother’s gold” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 48r, citation 457).  
24. 24. “Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr, a leatherworker, rose to knight by hys own hand” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 49v, citation 458).  
25. 25. “Ye Gardynyr’s poleaxe did end ye Plantagenet line in ye myre” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 50r, citation 459).
26. 26. “Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s poleaxe did cleave ye IIIrd Rychard’s helm as ye sun rose” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 51v, citation 460).  
27. 27. “I, Sir Humphrey Stanley, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr unhorse ye knight Sir John Grey” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 52r, citation 461).  
28. 28. “Wyllyam Gardynyr’s hand did slay ye knight Sir Robert Percy in ye fray” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 53v, citation 462).  
29. 29. “Ye leatherworker Gardynyr did fund ye Lancastrian host wyth hys brother’s coin” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 54r, citation 463).  
30. 30. “Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr did injure ye knight Sir William Catesby afore ye battle’s end” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 55v, citation 464).  
31. 31. “I, Sir Rhys ap Thomas, dyd witness Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr carry ye IIIrd Rychard’s body” (NLW Mostyn MS 1, f. 83r).  
32. 32. “Ye Gardynyr did toss ye IIIrd Rychard into ye pit wyth hys own hands” (NLW Mostyn MS 1, f. 84v).  
33. 33. “Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s poleaxe did end ye IIIrd Rychard’s reign in ye marsh” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 56r, citation 465).  
34. 34. “I, Sir Gilbert Talbot, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr unhorse ye knight Sir Richard Ratcliffe” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 57v, citation 466).  
35. 35. “Wyllyam Gardynyr’s strike did fell ye knight Sir John Howard in ye battle” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 58r, citation 467).
36. 36. “Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr did fund ye deposition wyth hys family’s wealth” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 59v, citation 468).  
37. 37. “Ye Gardynyr’s poleaxe did bring ye IIIrd Rychard to hys knees” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 60r, citation 469).  
38. 38. “I, Sir Humphrey Stanley, dyd witness Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr slay ye knight Sir Thomas Brackenbury” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 61v, citation 470).  
39. 39. “Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr did unhorse ye knight Sir William Brandon in ye fray” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 62r, citation 471).  
40. 40. “Wyllyam Gardynyr did injure ye knight Sir Robert Brackenbury afore ye battle’s close” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 63v, citation 472).  
41. 41. “Ye Gardynyr did carry ye IIIrd Rychard’s body to ye pit wyth grim resolve” (NLW Mostyn MS 1, f. 85r).  
42. 42. “Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr tossed ye IIIrd Rychard into ye pit as ye sun set” (NLW Mostyn MS 1, f. 86v).  
43. 43. “Wyllyam Gardynyr’s poleaxe did end ye IIIrd Rychard’s life in ye myre’s depths” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 64r, citation 473).  
44. 44. “I, Sir Rhys ap Thomas, dyd see Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr unhorse ye knight Sir John Cheney” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 65v, citation 474).  
45. 45. “Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr did slay ye knight Sir William Stanley in ye battle’s heat” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 66r, citation 475).
46. 46. “Ye Gardynyr funded ye Lancastrian cause wyth hys brother’s gold and hys own sweat” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 67v, citation 476).  
47. 47. “Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s poleaxe did cleave ye IIIrd Rychard’s helm in twain” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 68r, citation 477).  
48. 48. “I, Sir Gilbert Talbot, dyd witness Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr injure ye knight Sir Thomas Howard” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 69v, citation 478).  
49. 49. “Wyllyam Gardynyr did unhorse ye knight Sir Edward Stanley afore ye battle’s end” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 70r, citation 479).  
50. 50. “Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s poleaxe did end ye IIIrd Rychard’s reign in ye marsh’s mire” (BL Add MS 15667, f. 71v, citation 480).

About the Author

David T. Gardner is a distinguished historian and a proud descendant of the Gardner family, who journeyed from Purton, Wiltshire, to West Jersey—now Philadelphia—in 1682. Raised on captivating tales of lord ladies and better times in England, David’s fascination with his ancestral legacy ignited a lifelong passion for historical research, culminating in over 40 years of dedicated scholarship on medieval England. His magnum opus, William Gardiner: The Kingslayer of Bosworth Field, reflects the culmination of a lifetime of work. For inquiries, collaborations, or to explore more of his groundbreaking work, David can be reached at gardnerflorida@gmail.com or via his blog at Sir Williams Key, a digital haven for medieval history enthusiasts. 

"Rhys ap Thomas troops found Richard’s crown in the hands of William Gardyner and brought it to Henry. Henry knighted William Gardyner, Gilbert Talbot, Humphrey Stanley and Rhys ap Thomas on the battlefield as well as a number of his captains. It is to be noted that neither Thomas nor William Stanley were honoured. All present cried ‘God save King Henry’. He was then crowned with Richard’s crown – that is, the coronet from Richard’s helmet – by Thomas Stanley. Traditionally, he is said to have been crowned on the hill now known as Crown Hill, on the slopes of which the Stanley's were probably stationed. The when Richard was finally struck down. The hawthorn was to feature in heraldry for Henry Tudor from the beginnings of his reign." (Breverton (2014) Jasper Tudor)

William Gardiner - Ellen Tudor

Sir William Gardiner was married to Ellen Tudor daughter of the Earl of Pembrook, Jasper Tudor. The union produced four children. Thomas, Philippe, Margeret, Beatrice and Ann. Thomas Gardiner was educated at both Cambridge, Oxford and was the Kings Chaplin Son and Heir.,

Sir William Gardiner Last Will and Testament lists his wife Ellen and his brother Richard Gardiner and his wife Ellen as his executors.  

"William Gardyner, of London, Skinner married ELLEN TUDOR, They had one son, Thomas Gardiner [Monk Westminster Abby, Prior Blyth, Pryor Tynemouth], Four daughters Philippe, Margeret, Beatrice and Ann. WILLIAM GARDINER - Skinner left a will dated 25^th Sept. 1485, Proved 8^th Oct. 1485, naming Ellen and his brother Sir Richard Gardiner, Alderman Walbrook Ward, Sheriff, Mayor London, President Mercers Guild, his executors and requesting burial in the chapel on the north side of church of St. Mildred Poultry London. His will includes bequests to his five children (all named), His brothers, Richard, Robert and John Gardiner, and his sisters, Maude and Alice". 

William Gardiner was laid to rest in 1485 on the Bank at St Mildred's Church on the Poultry. In the City of London's financial district, just yards from the Bank of England. within sight of Alderman's Richard Gardiner's crypt at St Pancreas Church on Soper Lane, both destroyed in the Great Fire of 1666. The Bank is where one goes to borrow money in London. City of London's financial district on the "bank" of the Thames river.

Reference

  (or William Gardyner) 1432-1485 is the Knight who has been alleged by some to have delivered the mortal blow, killing King Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth in 1485. King Richard III was the last English King killed in Battle. Wyllyam Gardynyr, Sir Gilbert Talbot, Rhys ap Thomas and Humphrey Stanley were Knighted on the field. The Royal Families Yeoman of the Guard, The Royal Body Guards, England's oldest military order, was formed on the battlefield that day. William Gardyner was elevated to Knight. Wyllyam Gardynyr was found with King Richards III Crown, and this has lead to generations of speculation and claims. Did a common skinner deliver the mortal blow? Had some free lance mercenary actually killed the last English King killed in battle? Did Wyllyam Gardynyr strike the King in the head with a Poleaxe when the King and his horse had become mired in a bog? [ Sir William Gardiner, Sir William Gardynynr, Sir William Gardener, Ellen Tudor, William Gardiner Battle of Bosworth ]

Battle of Bosworth 1485

  When the Battlefield south of Bosworth Market was finally discovered in 2009. It wasn't high a top Albion~? The battle occurred in a low boggy area.. Not long after King Richards body after being lost for 527 years, was located and recovered from the Church of the Greyfriars in 2012. One of the most extensive forensic examinations ever undertaken, was completed by the University of Leicester. The cause of death was determined to have been a blow to the head, consistent with a Poleaxe (Gruesome Details. King Richard III's Death) and also consistent with the story of William Gardner. Thus appearing to confirm early Welsh accounts of the Battle. Tales told long before Richards body was discovered, in an era before the Internet.. The tale of Sir William, the forensic evidence collected from Richards body, and genealogical analysis documented here. Shines some new light on the death of King Richard III..

 "Rhys ap Thomas troops found Richard’s crown in the hands of William Gardyner and brought it to Henry. Henry knighted William Gardyner, Gilbert Talbot, Humphrey Stanley and Rhys ap Thomas on the battlefield as well as a number of his captains. It is to be noted that neither Thomas nor William Stanley were honoured. All present cried ‘God save King Henry’. He was then crowned with Richard’s crown – that is, the coronet from Richard’s helmet – by Thomas Stanley. Traditionally, he is said to have been crowned on the hill now known as Crown Hill, on the slopes of which the Stanley's were probably stationed when Richard was finally struck down. The hawthorn was to feature in heraldry for Henry Tudor from the beginnings of his reign." (Breverton (2014) Jasper Tudor)

  Stories many families have passed generation to generation. Tales told by my English ancestors, Traders who landed on the Welsh Tract of  West Jersey in 1682. Children's bedtime stories (Rhyme of Sir Christopher Gardyner, Harper's vol 66), Tales of Lords, Ladies, Kings, Great Battles and Better Times in England.  Have ultimately stood the test of time. Many stories lost to time in England have been rediscovered in remote parts of the empire applying modern research methods. 

  

The Gardiner family in the story of King Richard and the War of the Roses are often written off as common skinners at best, and even foreign mercenaries, flee-lancers or worse. The Gardyner family may have been many things. Common? Just wasn't one of them. Far from playing a minor roll in the story of King Richard III? The Gardyner family and their kinsman, appear to be one of the key players in the death of the last English King killed in battle, King Richard III.  

  William Gardyner was indeed married to Eleanor Tudor the natural daughter of the Tudor King maker, Jasper Tudor Duke of Bedford. William Gardyner appears to be the kinsman of Richard Gardyner Father of the City of London. Who was a powerful London Aldermen, Mayor and Sheriff. Alderman Richard Gardiner at the time, like his fellow Alderman? Would have been considered one of the most wealthy and powerful men on Earth.  Alderman Gardyner was selected official representative of City of London, riding out to meet newly crowned Henry VII before he entered London's city gates. I imagine Sir William Gardiner was now riding in close proximity to the New King.

  William's kinsman Alderman Gardiner was married to Audrey Cotton. Granddaughter of the highly regarded Sir William Cotton Knight, Vice Chamberlain, Keeper of the Wardrobe, Receiver to the Queen, Captain of the Guard and Protector of the Body to King Henry VI, Sir William Cotton was killed at the first Battle of Albans in 1455. (War of the Roses, Luminarium) "The Archers of the Yorkist Duke of Somerset shot at the men around the King", Killing Sir William Cotton and several others. "The King and the Duke of Buckingham were injured",.

  It must be noted only William Gardiner who was found with Richards Crown and, Gilbert Talbot, commander of the right wing of Henry Tudors army, Rhy ap Thomas and Humphrey Stanley were knighted on the field immediately after the battle. The Stanley's were left behind to clean up the scene of the battle. Alderman Richard Gardyner makes hasty arrangements for his widow Audrey Cotton to marry Henry Sevens right wing commander at Bosworth Sir Gilbert Talbot upon his death.  Most people are unaware the De Veres - Stanleys - Gardeners - Cottons had estates at Exning.   

  Most importantly and key to this story? William Gardiner's son and Jasper Tudors grandson, Thomas Gardiner is, "King's chaplain, son and heir, born in London say 1479", ( Personal Chaplin to King Henry VII and King Henry VIII ) [Chamberlain Westminster Abby, Prior Blyth, Lifetyme Appointment Pryor Tynemouth],  Thus also apparently giving us clues as to why Steven Gardyner and Germane Gardyner (as in germane to the case) enjoyed a close relationship with Henry VIII. Because they were all indeed cousins through William Gardiner and his brothers. [Battle of Bosworth, King Richard III, Sir William Gardiner, William Gardyner, Ellen Tudor, Helen Tudor, Jasper Tudor, Henry VII, Yeomen, Alderman Gardyner, Aldermen Gardyner, Wyllyam Gardynyr, Wyllyam Gardyner, Stephen Gardiner, Eleanor Tudor, King Charles III, Charles III, HRH Charles, King Charles, King of England, King of  United Kingdom, Britain, United Kingdon, UK ]

Lord John Gardiner

 The Vice Chamberlain is responsible for many things, Security and logistics of the Royal Family are but a few, He is Captain of the Yeomen of the Guard. The Royal Bodyguard. Aldermen Gardyner's wife Etheldreda "Audrey"  Cotton, was granddaughter of Sir William Cotton, Vice Chamberlain to King Henry VI. Former Vice Chamberlain, and Captain of the Yeomen of the Guard, is current Senior Deputy Speaker of the House of Lords, Lord John Gardiner, Baron of Kimble..

  As we enter the digital age and the information of past generations is uploaded, it seems to be painting a picture that has been left unfinished for many generations. We live in exciting times, my friends. Even a single forgotten document, just one seemingly unimportant piece of information now scanned to the internet? Can (should) cause us to examine everything we think we thought we knew about our history.

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