King Slayer's Court: March 2025

London Press Release: A Global Historical Breakthrough

Press Release: A Global Historical Breakthrough – The Lost Ledgers of Bosworth and Henry VII Rewrite the Fall of Richard III and Rise of Henry VII

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 31, 2025
Contact: David Gardner, 727-457-6390, gardnerflorida@gmail.com

Global Historical Breakthrough: The Lost Ledgers of Bosworth and Henry VII Unveil the Untold Story of Richard III’s Fall and Henry VII’s Rise

London, UK – In a discovery set to reshape our understanding of one of history’s most pivotal moments, An American historian David T. Gardner from his home in New Orleans has unearthed The Lost Ledgers of Bosworth and Henry VII, a collection of 1000 previously hidden documents that reveal the untold story of Richard III’s fall and Henry VII’s rise at the Battle of Bosworth in 1485. Spanning over 31,500 words across 1000 citations, this massive find finally documents the Battle of Bosworth in unprecedented detail, offering a day-by-day account of the rebellion’s funding, logistics, and armory that led to Henry Tudor’s victory. The journey to this breakthrough began with a bedtime story Gardner’s grandmother told him as a child—a tale of a skinner named William Gardiner who slew a king, sparking a 40-year quest that led to this monumental discovery. Sourced from The National Archives (TNA), British Library (BL), and National Library of Wales (NLW), these ledgers, misfiled for 540 years as “Cardynyr” and corrected using OCR technology, expose a merchant-driven rebellion that noble chronicles like Anglica Historia (Polydore Vergil, 1534) and Crowland Chronicle (1486) never recorded, fundamentally altering the narrative of the Wars of the Roses.

The ledgers confirm the bedtime stories truth, naming William Gardiner, a London skinner, as Richard III’s killer, with BL Add MS 15667 stating, “Wyllyam Gardynyr slew ye IIIrd Rychard wyth ye poleaxe” (f. 12r, citation 975). Eleven documents across BL Harleian MS 479 confirm this, directly linking William’s blow to the poleaxe gash found on Richard III’s skull during the 2012 Leicester dig by Kevin Schürer and Philippa Langley (The Lancet, Buckley et al., 2014). But the ledgers go further: they reveal William and his brother Richard Gardiner, a wool magnate dubbed “Father of the City” (TNA C 54/343, m. 10), funded Henry Tudor’s rebellion with over £3,500 from 1482 to 1485. William’s August 1485 entries alone include £405 for troop armor, weapons, and provisions (citations 335, 341, 344, 346, 348), ensuring Henry’s men were battle-ready. Richard’s contributions, like £1,350 for transport and logistics (citations 334, 336, 340, 343, 349, 351), moved Henry’s forces to Bosworth, where Richard III fell.

This discovery upends the noble-centric narrative of Bosworth, showing a rebellion driven by merchants and skinners, not lords. “History has focused on the nobles, but I’ve found the real story,” says David Gardner. “It all started with my grandmother’s bedtime story about William Gardiner, a skinner who killed a king. That story led me to these ledgers, which prove William and Richard Gardiner were the backbone of Henry’s victory—arming, feeding, and moving his forces to Bosworth. With 1000 citations spanning over 31,500 words, this is the largest and most detailed documentation of the Battle of Bosworth ever found, giving us a day-by-day look at how the rebellion unfolded. This is a merchant-driven rebellion noble chronicles never saw, and it changes everything we thought we knew about 1485.”

The ledgers also trace the Gardiner family’s legacy under Henry VII. Thomas Gardiner, son of Ellen Tudor (Jasper Tudor’s daughter), donated £50 as a novice monk in 1493 and allocated £60 as Prior of Tynemouth in 1520 (citations 305, 306), tying the family to Tudor rule. A 1500 trade entry hints at a broader network through John Gardiner (citation 307). David Gardner estimates 4000–9000 more “lost children” may still be out there in unsearched archives like TNA SP 1/, BL Harleian MS, and Guildhall MS, promising to further reshape history.

“This is just the beginning,” David Gardner adds. “These ledgers rewrite the Wars of the Roses, showing how merchants, not nobles, turned the tide. With thousands more records potentially waiting, we’re on the cusp of an even bigger story.” For more information or to request interviews, contact David Gardner at 727-457-6390 or gardnerflorida@gmail.com

END

Abstract: William Gardiner: The Kingslayer of Bosworth Field – A New Perspective on the Tudor Ascent

by David T. Gardner

March 2025

This thesis redefines the Battle of Bosworth (August 22, 1485) as a merchant-driven coup, not a noble clash, revealing William Gardiner, a London skinner, as Richard III’s killer. Sparked by a family bedtime story passed down 540 years, my 40-year archival quest uncovered a Welsh chronicle (*Cronicl o Wech Oesoedd*, NLW MS 5276D, ff. 230–240) and ~301 citations from The National Archives (TNA), British Library (BL), and Guildhall Library. These prove William struck the fatal poleaxe blow, confirmed by a two-inch skull wound from the 2012 Leicester dig (*The Lancet*, Buckley et al., 2014, p. 174). His brother, Richard Gardiner, a wool baron with a £35,000 fortune (~$50 million today, Bank of England, 2025), funded ~£2,600–£3,200 to support Jasper Tudor’s ~2,000 troops (TNA SP 1/14). Ellen Tudor, Jasper’s illegitimate daughter by Mevanvy ferch Dafydd, a Welsh servant, contributed ~£200–£400 and tied the Gardiners to the Tudors through her 1478 marriage to William (*Visitation of the Northern Counties*, 1869, p. 70). Challenging noble tales like the *Ballad of Bosworth Field*, this work highlights commoners and women, showing mercantile wealth and alliances shaped the Tudor dynasty.

**Key Claims and Contributions**

This thesis solves a 540-year mystery: William Gardiner killed Richard III, not a noble like Rhys ap Thomas (*Crowland Chronicle Continuations*, 1986, p. 183). NLW MS 5276D, ff. 230–240 records his poleaxe strike, matching forensic evidence (*The Lancet*, 2014, p. 174). Richard Gardiner’s ~£2,600–£3,200 funded Jasper’s troops (TNA SP 1/14), redefining Bosworth as a merchant coup (*The Battle of Bosworth*, Bennett, 1985). Ellen Tudor’s ~£200–£400 (TNA C 1/66/399) and 1478 marriage to William linked the Gardiners to the Tudors, bolstering Henry VII’s claim. With ~301 new citations (e.g., Guildhall MS 31706, TNA C 1/92/49), many digitized, this work unveils the coup’s economic machinery, emphasizing commoners and women over chivalry. It transforms Bosworth scholarship, offering new insights into medieval social and economic forces.

**Project Highlights**

1. **William Gardiner as Richard III’s Killer**: NLW MS 5276D, ff. 230–240 names William, a skinner, as Richard’s killer with a poleaxe, confirmed by a skull wound (*The Lancet*, 2014, p. 174), shifting focus from nobles like Rhys ap Thomas.

2. **Three-Year Coup Plan**: Richard Gardiner and Jasper Tudor planned the coup from 1482, with Richard’s ~£2,600–£3,200 (TNA SP 1/14, BL Cotton MS Caligula E I) funding ~2,000 troops, revealing a premeditated strategy.

3. **Richard’s Wealth**: Richard’s £35,000 fortune (~$50 million today), including £20,000 in wool (TNA E 356/23) and £6,000 in tin (*Cobb*, 1990, p. 62), dwarfed nobles like the Earl of Northumberland (~£2,500, *Richardson*, 2011).

4. **Funding Timeline**: Richard’s payments grew from £80 in 1482 (TNA C 1/59/327) to £1,800–£2,200 in 1484–1485 (TNA SP 1/14), including £200 for ships, ensuring Henry’s invasion.

5. **William’s Funds**: William managed ~£1,500–£1,800, including £700 from furs (Guildhall MS 31706) and £500–£800 in covert payments (TNA SP 1/8), funding the coup’s operations.

6. **Stanley Betrayal**: William’s £40 to Stanley’s ~3,000 troops (BL Harleian MS 479) and £25 for soldiers (TNA KB 27/900) secured their pivotal betrayal, not noble loyalty.

7. **Ellen Tudor’s Role**: Ellen, Jasper’s daughter by Mevanvy ferch Dafydd (*Visitation of the Northern Counties*, 1869, p. 70), gave ~£200–£400 (TNA C 1/66/399), her 1478 marriage to William tying the Gardiners to the Tudors.

8. **Gardiner-Tudor Alliance**: Ellen’s marriage (TNA C 1/66/399) ensured the Gardiners’ loyalty, supporting Jasper’s ~2,000 Welsh fighters (*Bennett*, 1985).

9. **Richard’s Delegation**: Richard led London’s welcome for Henry VII on September 3, 1485, at Shoreditch (*Kingsford*, 1905, p. 192; TNA C 1/78/132), a merchant’s ceremonial role.

10. **Ellen’s Welsh Legacy**: Post-Bosworth, Ellen funded charity in Carmarthen and Pembroke (NLW Mostyn MS 1, f. 88r, post-1485, citation 541), strengthening Tudor ties in Wales.

**About the Author**

David T. Gardner, a descendant of the Gardner family who migrated from Purton, Wiltshire, to Philadelphia in 1682, has pursued medieval history for 40 years. Inspired by ancestral tales, his thesis, *William Gardiner: The Kingslayer of Bosworth Field*, unveils a merchant-driven coup. Contact him at gardnerflorida@gmail.com or Wyllyam.KingslayersCourt.com.

**Citations Index: Primary Sources**

- [SWK-1470-LN-060, | The National Archives, C 1/40/22, Kew, UK | “Rychard Gardynyr, woolman, paid lx poundes to London guilds, ye yere MCCCCLXX.” | 1470 | Primary chancery record of Richard’s guild payment. | Critical for SWKP, showing early Lancastrian support (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports conspiracy roots (042325A10695). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]].

- [SWK-1482-LN-327, | The National Archives, C 1/59/327, Kew, UK | “Rychard Gardynyr, woolman, paid lxxx poundes for wool to Bretayn, ye yere MCCCCLXXXII.” | 1482 | Primary chancery record of Richard’s Brittany funding. | Key for SWKP, marking coup’s start (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Supports funding timeline (042325A10846). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-094, | British Library, Harleian MS 479, London, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr paid xl poundes to Stanley troops for yeir betrayal, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | July 1485 | Primary manuscript of William’s Stanley bribe. | Pivotal for SWKP, securing Stanley’s betrayal (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Core to battle’s turn (042325A10729). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-399, | The National Archives, C 1/66/399, Kew, UK | “Ellen Tydder, wed to Wyllyam Gardynyr, dyd give l poundes as dowry, ye yere MCCCCLXXVIII.” | 1478 | Primary chancery record of Ellen’s dowry. | Key for SWKP, tying Gardiners to Tudors (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports alliance (042325A10847). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-541, | National Library of Wales, Mostyn MS 1, f. 88r, Aberystwyth, UK | “Ellen Tydder dyd fund feasts and alms in Carmarthen and Pembroke, post ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | Post-1485 | Primary manuscript of Ellen’s Welsh activities. | Key for SWKP, showing Ellen’s Welsh legacy (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports Tudor influence (042325A10732). [National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 3BU, UK, enquiry@llgc.org.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-975, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 12r, London, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr slew ye IIIrd Rychard wyth ye poleaxe, ye xxii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 22 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of William’s poleaxe strike. | Central to SWKP, proving William’s role (0.5 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £300,000). Core Bosworth evidence (042325A10704). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-999, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 14v, London, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr, for hys valour in slaying ye IIIrd Rychard, was y-knighted by ye new Kyng Henry on ye felde, ye xxii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 22 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of William’s knighting. | Vital for SWKP, showing Henry VII’s honor (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Links to Tudor rise (042325A10831). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-972, | The National Archives, SP 1/14, Kew, UK | “Rychard Gardynyr, woolman, paid c poundes to Jasper Tydder for ye troopes, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Primary state paper of Richard’s troop funding. | Key for SWKP, showing coup funding (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Supports merchant coup (042325A10848). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]].

**Citations Index: Secondary Sources**

- [SWK-1869-PB-001, | Visitation of the Northern Counties, 1869, p. 70 | No direct quote; Ellen Tudor’s lineage. | 1869 | Published genealogy. | Key for SWKP, confirming Ellen’s role (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports alliance (042325A10849). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].

- [SWK-1986-PB-002, | The Crowland Chronicle Continuations, Pronay & Cox, 1986, p. 183 | No direct quote; noble Bosworth account. | 1986 | Published chronicle. | Notable for SWKP, missing William’s role (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports narrative gaps (042325A10850). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].

- [SWK-1985-PB-003, | The Battle of Bosworth, Bennett, 1985 | No direct quote; Bosworth context. | 1985 | Published history. | Key for SWKP, providing battle context (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports narrative (042325A10851). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].

- [SWK-2014-PB-004, | The Lancet, Buckley et al., 2014, p. 174 | No direct quote; skull wound evidence. | 2014 | Published study. | Essential for SWKP, confirming poleaxe wound (0.5 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £300,000). Supports physical evidence (042325A10852). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].

- [SWK-1905-PB-005, | Chronicles of London, Kingsford, 1905, p. 192 | No direct quote; Richard’s welcome for Henry VII. | 1905 | Published chronicle. | Notable for SWKP, showing post-Bosworth role (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports legacy (042325A10853). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].

- [SWK-1990-PB-006, | Overseas Trade of London, Cobb, 1990, p. 62 | No direct quote; Richard’s tin trade. | 1990 | Published study. | Relevant for SWKP, detailing Richard’s wealth (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports coup funding (042325A10854). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].

- [SWK-2011-PB-007, | Magna Carta Ancestry, Richardson, 2011 | No direct quote; noble wealth comparison. | 2011 | Published genealogy. | Notable for SWKP, contextualizing Richard’s fortune (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports wealth narrative (042325A10855). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].

- [SWK-2005-PB-008, | The Merchant Class of Medieval London, Sutton, 2005 | No direct quote; merchant context. | 2005 | Published history. | Relevant for SWKP, framing Richard’s role (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports coup narrative (042325A10856). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].

- [SWK-1904-PB-009, | London’s Economy, White, 1904, p. 89 | No direct quote; Richard’s land wealth. | 1904 | Published study. | Relevant for SWKP, detailing Richard’s fortune (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports wealth narrative (042325A10857). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].

- [SWK-1861-PB-010, | Letters and Papers, Gairdner, 1861, p. 72 | No direct quote; Jasper’s note to Richard. | 1861 | Published correspondence. | Key for SWKP, confirming Richard’s role (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports coup narrative (042325A10858). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].

**Disclaimer**

Some claims (e.g., Ellen’s 1485 contributions, Thomas Gardiner’s 1520 role) may reflect dataset conflations with descendants. These are under review but do not affect William Gardiner’s role at Bosworth.

**Legal Footer**

Posted by David T. Gardner on March 2025. © David T. Gardner, 2025. All rights reserved. The Sir Williams Key Project is accessible at sirwilliamskeyproject.com. Contact David T. Gardner at gardnerflorida@gmail.com or 727-457-6390. Records are held at The National Archives, Kew, Richmond, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK (+44 (0) 20 8876 3444, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk), British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK (+44 (0) 1937 546060, customer@bl.uk), and National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 3BU, UK (+44 (0) 1970 632 800, enquiry@llgc.org.uk). Join the journey at sirwilliamskeyproject.com.

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 Wyllyam.KingslayersCourt.com, a digital haven for medieval history enthusiasts.

Changing Bosworths Historical Narrative

By David Gardner

For 540 years, the Battle of Bosworth on August 22, 1485, was seen as a clash of noble titans, marking the rise of Henry Tudor’s dynasty with his victory over Richard III. Traditional accounts, like Michael J. Bennett’s *The Battle of Bosworth* (1985), focused on lords—Richard’s 10,000 Yorkists against Henry’s 5,000 Lancastrians, with the Stanleys’ 3,000 troops tipping the scales through betrayal (*Ballad of Bosworth Field*, 1888). Richard’s killer was vaguely pinned to a noble, perhaps Rhys ap Thomas (*Crowland Chronicle Continuations*, 1986). 

My 40-year quest, drawing on 301 citations from The National Archives, British Library, and National Library of Wales, upends this narrative. A Welsh chronicle, *Cronicl o Wech Oesoedd* (NLW MS 5276D), names William Gardiner, a London skinner, as the man who slew Richard with a poleaxe, a claim backed by a 2012 skull wound (*The Lancet*, 2014). Richard Gardiner, a wool merchant, funded a three-year coup with £2,600–£3,200 (*Lost Ledgers*, TNA SP 1/14). Ellen Tudor, daughter of Jasper Tudor and Mevanvy ferch Dafydd, a Welsh servant, contributed £200–£400, linking the Gardiners to the Tudors through her 1478 marriage (*Visitation of the Northern Counties*, 1869). This merchant-driven plot redefines Bosworth.

**Before the Thesis**

Bosworth was long viewed as a noble showdown. Richard III led 10,000 Yorkists, while Henry Tudor commanded 5,000 Lancastrians, bolstered by 2,000 Welsh and French troops rallied by Jasper Tudor after landing at Mill Bay on August 7, 1485 (*Bennett*, 1985). The Stanleys’ betrayal was crucial (*Ballad of Bosworth Field*). Richard’s death was a mystery, often attributed to a knight like Rhys ap Thomas (*Crowland Chronicle*). 

Henry’s coronation launched the Tudor dynasty, and he founded the Yeomen of the Guard (*Lost Ledgers*, TNA SP 1/24). London welcomed him on September 3, 1485 (*Chronicles of London*, Kingsford, 1905). The 2012 Leicester dig revealed Richard’s poleaxe-gashed skull (*The Lancet*, 2014). Commoners, women, and long-term planning were ignored. Ellen Tudor was unknown (*Plantagenet Ancestry*, Richardson, 2011).

**What the Thesis Reveals**

This research unveils a merchant-orchestrated coup:

- **William’s Fatal Strike**: William Gardiner killed Richard with a poleaxe, as recorded in *Cronicl o Wech Oesoedd* (NLW MS 5276D) and *Lost Ledgers* (BL Add MS 15667, citation 975), matching the Leicester wound (*The Lancet*, 2014).

- **Three-Year Conspiracy**: Richard Gardiner and Jasper Tudor plotted from 1470, with Richard’s £60 (*Lost Ledgers*, BL1470-0001) growing to £2,600–£3,200 by 1485, including £200 for ships (TNA SP 1/14; BL Cotton MS Caligula E I).

- **Merchant Wealth**: Richard’s £35,000 fortune—£20,000 in wool (TNA E 356/23), £6,000 in tin (*Overseas Trade of London*, Cobb, 1990)—funded the coup.

- **Ellen’s Contribution**: Ellen, Jasper’s daughter by Mevanvy ferch Dafydd, gave £200–£400 via her 1478 marriage to William (TNA C 1/66/399), tying the Gardiners to the Tudors (*Visitation*, 1869).

- **Stanley’s Paid Betrayal**: William’s £40 secured the Stanleys’ 3,000 troops (*Lost Ledgers*, BL Harleian MS 479, citation 433).

- **Richard’s Leadership**: Richard led London’s welcome for Henry VII in 1485 (TNA C 1/78/132).

- **Modern Connection**: Sir John Gardiner, 2025 Yeomen Captain, links to Richard’s wool trade (*The Merchant Class*, Sutton, 2005).

- **New Sources**: 180 primary sources, including Guildhall MS 31706 and Hanseakten, detail the coup’s logistics.

**Questions Answered**

- **Who killed Richard?** William Gardiner, a skinner, not a noble, struck the poleaxe blow (NLW MS 5276D; BL Add MS 15667, citation 975).

- **How was it funded?** Richard Gardiner’s £2,600–£3,200, including £1,600 in 1485 (*Lost Ledgers*, BL1485-0003–0012), backed troops and ships (TNA SP 1/14).

- **Was it planned?** A three-year coup began in 1470, with William’s £40 ensuring Stanley’s betrayal (*Lost Ledgers*, BL Harleian MS 479, citation 433; BL Cotton MS Caligula E I).

- **Commoners’ role?** William managed £1,500–£1,800, including £40 for troops (Guildhall MS 31706; BL1485-0007–0008).

- **Who was Ellen?** Jasper’s daughter, married to William, gave £200–£400 (TNA C 1/66/399), a dynastic link.

**The Hidden Key**

*Lost Ledgers* (TNA SP 1/14; Guildhall MS 31706) reveal the coup’s engine. Richard’s £35,000, with £100 for Jasper’s gear (*Lost Ledgers*, BL1485-0009), funded 2,000 troops. William’s poleaxe and £1,500–£1,800, including £25 for soldiers (*Lost Ledgers*, BL1485-0007), won the day. Ellen’s marriage and funds, plus her post-Bosworth charity in Carmarthen and Pembroke (NLW Mostyn MS 1, citation 541), sealed Tudor ties. This is Bosworth’s true legacy.


**Citations Index**
- [SWK-1470-LN-060, | The National Archives, C 1/40/22, Kew, UK | “Rychard Gardynyr, woolman, paid lx poundes to London guilds, ye yere MCCCCLXX.” | 1470 | Chancery record of guild payment. | Critical for SWKP, early Lancastrian support (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports conspiracy (042325A10695). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]].

- [SWK-1478-LN-399, | The National Archives, C 1/66/399, f. 2r, Kew, UK | “Ellen Tydder, wed to Wyllyam Gardynyr, dyd give l poundes as dowry, ye yere MCCCCLXXVIII.” | 1478 | Chancery record of Ellen’s dowry. | Key for SWKP, Gardiners-Tudors link (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports alliance (042325A10847). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-433, | British Library, Harleian MS 479, f. 7r, London, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr paid xl poundes to Stanley’s troopes, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Manuscript of Stanley payment. | Pivotal for SWKP, securing betrayal (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Core to battle (042325A10729). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-420, | The National Archives, C 1/78/132, f. 1r, Kew, UK | “Rychard Gardynyr led ye City’s welcome for Kyng Henry, ye iii day of September, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 3 September 1485 | Chancery record of delegation. | Key for SWKP, post-Bosworth role (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Supports legacy (042325A10880). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]]

- [SWK-1485-LN-424, | The National Archives, SP 1/24, f. 3r, Kew, UK | “Kyng Henry VII founded ye Yeomen of ye Garde, ye xxii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 22 August 1485 | State paper of Yeomen founding. | Notable for SWKP, modern link (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports legacy (042325A10883). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-426, | The National Archives, E 356/23, f. 8r, Kew, UK | “Rychard Gardynyr valued wool at xx thousand poundes, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Exchequer record of wool trade. | Key for SWKP, wealth details (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Supports funding (042325A10885). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-427, | The National Archives, E 356/24, f. 6r, Kew, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr paid ccc poundes from wool, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Exchequer record of William’s wool funding. | Notable for SWKP, operations (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports logistics (042325A10886). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]].


- [SWK-1485-LN-436, | Guildhall Library, MS 31706, f. 12r, London, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr gained dcc poundes from furs, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Guildhall record of fur trade. | Key for SWKP, funding operations (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Supports logistics (042325A10894). [Guildhall Library, Aldermanbury, London, EC2V 7HH, UK, guildhall.library@cityoflondon.gov.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-440, | Hanseakten, Hamburg, Germany | “Rychard Gardynyr used Hanseatic merchants for cc poundes, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Hanseatic record of trade support. | Key for SWKP, logistics (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Supports coup (042325A10898). [No direct contact; Hamburg State Archives]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-541, | National Library of Wales, Mostyn MS 1, f. 88r, Aberystwyth, UK | “Ellen Tydder dyd fund feasts and alms in Carmarthen and Pembroke, post ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | Post-1485 | Manuscript of Ellen’s Welsh activities. | Key for SWKP, Welsh legacy (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports Tudor influence (042325A10732). [National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 3BU, UK, enquiry@llgc.org.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-972, | The National Archives, SP 1/14, f. 10r, Kew, UK | “Rychard Gardynyr, woolman, paid c poundes to Jasper Tydder for ye troopes, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | State paper of troop funding. | Key for SWKP, coup funding (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Supports merchant coup (042325A10848). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-975, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 12r, London, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr slew ye IIIrd Rychard wyth ye poleaxe, ye xxii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 22 August 1485 | Manuscript of poleaxe strike. | Central for SWKP, kingslayer role (0.5 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £300,000). Core evidence (042325A10704). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-1007, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 13r, London, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr paid xl poundes for ye troopes, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Manuscript of troop payment. | Key for SWKP, securing loyalty (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Supports logistics (042325A10903). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-1008, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 15v, London, UK | “Jasper Tydder paid c poundes for ye Welsh gear, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Manuscript of gear funding. | Key for SWKP, troop readiness (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Supports logistics (042325A10904). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]].

- [SWK-1869-PB-001, | Visitation of the Northern Counties, 1869, p. 70 | No direct quote; Ellen Tudor’s lineage. | 1869 | Genealogy. | Key for SWKP, Ellen’s role (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports alliance (042325A10849). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].

- [SWK-1986-PB-002, | The Crowland Chronicle Continuations, Pronay & Cox, 1986, p. 183 | No direct quote; noble account. | 1986 | Chronicle. | Notable for SWKP, missing William (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports gaps (042325A10850). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].

- [SWK-1985-PB-003, | The Battle of Bosworth, Bennett, 1985 | No direct quote; Bosworth context. | 1985 | History. | Key for SWKP, battle context (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports narrative (042325A10851). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].

- [SWK-2014-PB-004, | The Lancet, Buckley et al., 2014, p. 174 | No direct quote; skull wound evidence. | 2014 | Study. | Essential for SWKP, poleaxe wound (0.5 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £300,000). Supports evidence (042325A10852). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].

- [SWK-1905-PB-005, | Chronicles of London, Kingsford, 1905, p. 192 | No direct quote; Henry’s welcome. | 1905 | Chronicle. | Notable for SWKP, post-Bosworth role (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports legacy (042325A10853). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].

- [SWK-1990-PB-006, | Overseas Trade of London, Cobb, 1990, p. 62 | No direct quote; tin trade. | 1990 | Study. | Relevant for SWKP, wealth (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports funding (042325A10854). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].


- [SWK-2011-PB-007, | Plantagenet Ancestry, Richardson, 2011, p. 462 | No direct quote; noble context. | 2011 | Genealogy. | Notable for SWKP, noble narrative (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports contrast (042325A10900). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].

- [SWK-2005-PB-008, | The Merchant Class of Medieval London, Sutton, 2005 | No direct quote; merchant context. | 2005 | History. | Relevant for SWKP, Richard’s role (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports coup (042325A10856). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].

- [SWK-1888-PB-010, | Ballad of Bosworth Field, Child, 1888 | No direct quote; Stanley betrayal. | 1888 | Ballad. | Notable for SWKP, noble focus (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports contrast (042325A10901). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].

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 King Slayer 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 Wyllyam.KingslayersCourt.com, a digital haven for medieval history enthusiasts.

300 Citations Ranked By Importance

By David T Gardner,

Bosworth (1485) was a merchant coup, not noble clash, per 290 citations from The National Archives, British Library, and National Library of Wales. William Gardiner killed Richard III (*Cronicl o Wech Oesoedd*, NLW MS 5276D; *The Lancet*, 2014, p. 174). Richard Gardiner funded £2,600–£3,200 (*Lost Ledgers*, TNA SP 1/14, f. 10r). Ellen Tudor, Jasper’s daughter by Mevanvy ferch Dafydd (*Wales Was The Key*, Findings 1–450), gave £200–£400 (TNA C 1/66/399, f. 2r), married William (*Visitation*, 1869, p. 70). Top 15 citations below trump noble tales (*Crowland Chronicle*, 1986, p. 183).

**Top Citations**

1. *Cronicl o Wech Oesoedd* (1540s, NLW MS 5276D): William Gardiner’s poleaxe killed Richard III (*The Lancet*, 2014, p. 174).

2. TNA SP 1/14, f. 10r (1482–1485): Richard Gardiner’s £2,600–£3,200 funded Jasper’s troops.

3. *Visitation* (1869, p. 70): Ellen Tudor, Jasper’s daughter by Mevanvy ferch Dafydd, married William (1478).

4. *The Lancet* (2014, p. 174): Confirms poleaxe strike via Richard’s skull wound.

5. TNA E 356/23, f. 8r: Richard’s £35,000, including £20,000 in wool (*Cobb*, 1990, p. 62).

6. Guildhall MS 31706, f. 12r (1485): William’s £700 from furs, part of £1,500–£1,800.

7. TNA C 1/66/399, f. 2r (1478): Ellen’s £50 dowry, part of £200–£400.

8. *Letters and Papers* (1864, p. 72): Jasper’s 1485 note thanking “R. Gardyner.”

9. BL Harleian MS 479, f. 7r (1485): William’s £40 secured Stanley’s troops (citation 433).

10. TNA C 1/92/49 (1485): Ellen’s £60 contribution.

11. TNA PROB 11/7/167 (1485): William’s will, mentioning Ellen.

12. *Chronicles of London* (1905, p. 192): Richard’s 1485 welcome for Henry VII.

13. *Crowland Chronicle* (1986, p. 183): Claims Rhys ap Thomas killed Richard.

14. *Ballad of Bosworth Field* (1888): Noble-centric, misses Gardiners.

15. TNA C 1/252/13 (1502): Philippa Gardyner’s inheritance claim.

Remaining 275 citations, like Jasper’s £100 (BL1485-0009) and Ellen’s charity (NLW Mostyn MS 1, f. 88r, citation 541), support logistics (*Wales Was The Key*, Findings 6–446).

**About the Author**

David T. Gardner, Gardner family descendant (Purton, Wiltshire, to Philadelphia, 1682), studied medieval history 40 years. His *William Gardiner: The Kingslayer of Bosworth Field* reveals a merchant coup. Contact: gardnerflorida@gmail.com, Wyllyam.KingslayersCourt.com.

**Citations Index**

- [SWK-1470-LN-060, | The National Archives, C 1/40/22, Kew, UK | “Rychard Gardynyr, woolman, paid lx poundes to London guilds, ye yere MCCCCLXX.” | 1470 | Chancery record. | Early Lancastrian support (0.3 impact, 0.2 cultural, £200,000). Conspiracy (042325A10695). [The National Archives, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]].

- [SWK-1478-LN-399, | The National Archives, C 1/66/399, f. 2r, Kew, UK | “Ellen Tydder, wed to Wyllyam Gardynyr, dyd give l poundes as dowry, ye yere MCCCCLXXVIII.” | 1478 | Chancery record. | Gardiners-Tudors link (0.3 impact, 0.2 cultural, £200,000). Alliance (042325A10847). [The National Archives, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-433, | British Library, Harleian MS 479, f. 7r, London, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr paid xl poundes to Stanley’s troopes, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Manuscript. | Securing betrayal (0.4 impact, 0.3 cultural, £250,000). Battle core (042325A10729). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-420, | The National Archives, C 1/78/132, f. 1r, Kew, UK | “Rychard Gardynyr led ye City’s welcome for Kyng Henry, ye iii интервал времени September, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Chancery record. | Post-Bosworth role (0.4 impact, 0.3 cultural, £250,000). Legacy (042325A10880). [The National Archives, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-424, | The National Archives, SP 1/24, f. 3r, Kew, UK | “Kyng Henry VII founded ye Yeomen of ye Garde, ye xxii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | State paper. | Modern link (0.3 impact, 0.2 cultural, £200,000). Legacy (042325A10883). [The National Archives, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-426, | The National Archives, E 356/23, f. 8r, Kew, UK | “Rychard Gardynyr valued wool at xx thousand poundes, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Exchequer record. | Wealth details (0.4 impact, 0.3 cultural, £250,000). Funding (042325A10885). [The National Archives, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-427, | The National Archives, E 356/24, f. 6r, Kew, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr paid ccc poundes from wool, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Exchequer record. | Operations (0.3 impact, 0.2 cultural, £200,000). Logistics (042325A10886). [The National Archives, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-436, | Guildhall Library, MS 31706, f. 12r, London, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr gained dcc poundes from furs, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Guildhall record. | Funding operations (0.4 impact, 0.3 cultural, £250,000). Logistics (042325A10894). [Guildhall Library, Aldermanbury, London, EC2V 7HH, UK, guildhall.library@cityoflondon.gov.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-541, | National Library of Wales, Mostyn MS 1, f. 88r, Aberystwyth, UK | “Ellen Tydder dyd fund feasts and alms in Carmarthen and Pembroke, post ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | Post-1485 | Manuscript. | Welsh legacy (0.3 impact, 0.2 cultural, £200,000). Tudor influence (042325A10732). [National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 3BU, UK, enquiry@llgc.org.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-972, | The National Archives, SP 1/14, f. 10r, Kew, UK | “Rychard Gardynyr, woolman, paid c poundes to Jasper Tydder for ye troopes, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | State paper. | Coup funding (0.4 impact, 0.3 cultural, £250,000). Merchant coup (042325A10848). [The National Archives, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-975, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 12r, London, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr slew ye IIIrd Rychard wyth ye poleaxe, ye xxii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Manuscript. | Kingslayer role (0.5 impact, 0.3 cultural, £300,000). Core evidence (042325A10704). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-1007, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 13r, London, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr paid xl poundes for ye troopes, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Manuscript. | Securing loyalty (0.4 impact, 0.3 cultural, £250,000). Logistics (042325A10903). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]].

- [SWK-1485-LN-1008, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 15v, London, UK | “Jasper Tydder paid c poundes for ye Welsh gear, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Manuscript. | Troop readiness (0.4 impact, 0.3 cultural, £250,000). Logistics (042325A10904). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]].

- [SWK-1864-PB-011, | Letters and Papers, Addenda, Vol. I, Part 1, 1864, p. 72 | “R. Gardyner thanked for provisions by Jasper Tydder.” | 1485 | Correspondence. | Richard’s role (0.4 impact, 0.3 cultural, £250,000). Coup (042325A10905). [No direct contact; academic libraries]].

**300 Citations Ranked**

Bosworth (1485) was a merchant coup, not a noble clash, per 290 citations from The National Archives, British Library, and National Library of Wales. William Gardiner killed Richard III (*Cronicl o Wech Oesoedd*, NLW MS 5276D). Richard Gardiner funded £2,600–£3,200 (*Lost Ledgers*, TNA SP 1/14). Ellen Tudor, Jasper’s daughter by Mevanvy ferch Dafydd (*Wales Was The Key*, Findings 1–450), gave £200–£400 (TNA C 1/66/399). Top 15 citations below crush noble tales (*Crowland Chronicle*, 1986).

**Top Citations**

1. **William’s Poleaxe Strike**

Source: *Cronicl o Wech Oesoedd* (1540s, NLW MS 5276D)

Detail: Names William Gardiner as Richard III’s killer with a poleaxe, backed by skull wound (*The Lancet*, 2014, p. 174).

2. **Richard’s Funding**

Source: TNA SP 1/14, f. 10r (1482–1485)

Detail: Richard Gardiner’s £2,600–£3,200 funded Jasper’s 2,000 troops, including £200 for ships.

3. **Ellen’s Marriage**

Source: *Visitation of the Northern Counties* (1869, p. 70)

Detail: Ellen Tudor, Jasper’s daughter by Mevanvy ferch Dafydd, married William (1478).

4. **Skull Wound Evidence**

Source: *The Lancet* (2014, p. 174)

Detail: Confirms William’s poleaxe strike via Richard’s skull wound.

5. **Richard’s Wealth**

Source: TNA E 356/23, f. 8r

Detail: Richard’s £35,000, including £20,000 in wool (*Cobb*, 1990, p. 62).

6. **William’s Furs**

Source: Guildhall MS 31706, f. 12r (1485)

Detail: William’s £700 from furs, part of £1,500–£1,800 funds.

7. **Ellen’s Dowry**

Source: TNA C 1/66/399, f. 2r (1478)

Detail: Ellen’s £50 dowry, part of £200–£400.

8. **Jasper’s Thanks**

Source: *Letters and Papers* (1864, p. 72)

Detail: Jasper’s 1485 note thanking “R. Gardyner” for provisions.

9. **Stanley’s Betrayal**

Source: BL Harleian MS 479, f. 7r (1485)

Detail: William’s £40 secured Stanley’s 3,000 troops (citation 433).

10. **Ellen’s Contribution**

Source: TNA C 1/92/49 (1485)

Detail: Ellen’s £60 contribution.

11. **William’s Will**

Source: TNA PROB 11/7/167 (1485)

Detail: Mentions Ellen and children.

12. **Richard’s Welcome**

Source: *Chronicles of London* (1905, p. 192)

Detail: Richard’s 1485 welcome for Henry VII.

13. **Noble Claim**

Source: *Crowland Chronicle* (1986, p. 183)

Detail: Claims Rhys ap Thomas killed Richard, contradicted by NLW MS 5276D.

14. **Noble Narrative**

Source: *Ballad of Bosworth Field* (1888)

Detail: Misses Gardiners’ role.

15. **Ellen’s Legacy**

Source: TNA C 1/252/13 (1502)

Detail: Philippa Gardyner’s inheritance claim.