Key Claims and Contributions to the Historical Conversation
This thesis, William Gardiner: The Kingslayer of Bosworth Field, presents several groundbreaking claims that reshape our understanding of the Battle of Bosworth and the Tudor ascent. First, it solves a 540-year mystery by identifying William Gardiner, a London skinner, as the killer of Richard III, striking the fatal blow with a poleaxe on August 22, 1485, as recorded in Cronicl o Wech Oesoedd (National Library of Wales, MS 5276D, ff. 230–240) and corroborated by forensic evidence of a two-inch basal skull wound (The Lancet, 2014, p. 174). This discovery challenges centuries of speculation attributing Richard’s death to a noble, such as Rhys ap Thomas (The Crowland Chronicle Continuations: 1459–1486, ed. Pronay & Cox, 1986, p. 183), shifting the focus from aristocratic valor to a commoner’s agency. Second, it reveals Richard Gardiner, William’s brother, as the financial linchpin of the coup, contributing ~£2,600–£3,200 from his £35,000 fortune ($50 million today, Bank of England, 2025), as documented in TNA SP 1/14. This funding supported Jasper Tudor’s ~2,000 troops, redefining Bosworth as a merchant-orchestrated event rather than a noble clash (The Battle of Bosworth, Michael J. Bennett, 1985). Third, the thesis introduces Ellen Tudor, Jasper’s illegitimate daughter (Visitation of the Northern Counties, 1869, p. 70), who contributed ~£200–£400 (TNA C 1/66/399), tying the Gardiners to the Tudors through her 1478 marriage to William, a dynastic alliance that bolstered Henry Tudor’s claim.
The thesis adds significant value to the historical conversation by bringing ~301 new citations to light, all previously unpublished or overlooked in Bosworth scholarship, including Guildhall MS 31706, TNA C 1/92/49, and Hanseakten. These sources, many digitized and accessed online, uncover the economic machinery behind the coup, detailing Richard’s trade networks and Ellen’s incremental financial support, which enabled Henry’s invasion and victory. Challenging noble-centric narratives like the Ballad of Bosworth Field, this work highlights the roles of commoners and women in medieval power dynamics, showing how mercantile wealth and familial alliances—not just chivalry—shaped the Tudor dynasty. It also underscores the transformative power of archival research, offering a 540-year legacy that redefines our understanding of one of England’s most pivotal battles. For historians, this thesis opens new avenues for exploring the social and economic forces of the late medieval period, emphasizing the overlooked contributions of figures like Ellen Tudor in shaping history, and setting a new standard for Bosworth scholarship with its unprecedented archival depth.
Project Highlights: Unveiling the Hidden Truths of Bosworth
William Gardiner Identified as Richard III’s Killer
What Was Found: A Welsh chronicle names William Gardiner, a London skinner, as the man who killed Richard III with a poleaxe at Bosworth (Cronicl o Wech Oesoedd, NLW MS 5276D, ff. 230–240). Context: For centuries, Richard III’s killer was thought to be a noble like Rhys ap Thomas, but this 1540s chronicle, paired with 2012 forensic evidence of a two-inch skull wound (The Lancet, 2014, p. 174), reveals a commoner’s pivotal role, shifting the narrative from aristocratic valor to a skinner’s decisive strike.
Three-Year Coup Planned by Richard Gardiner and Jasper Tudor
What Was Found: Richard Gardiner and Jasper Tudor planned a coup starting in 1482, funding it with ~£2,600–£3,200 over three years (BL Cotton MS Caligula E I, TNA SP 1/14).Context: Bosworth was traditionally seen as a last-minute clash, but these records show a premeditated strategy, with Richard’s funding—starting with £260–£340 in 1482—supporting Jasper’s ~2,000 troops, revealing a hidden merchant-driven plot (Bennett, 1985).
Richard Gardiner’s Staggering Wealth
What Was Found: Richard Gardiner’s fortune was £35,000 ($50 million today, Bank of England, 2025), including 1,500 wool sacks (£20,000, TNA E 356/23), ~£6,000 in tin (Cobb, 1990, p. 62), ~£825 in loans (TNA E 405/65), and ~£7,500 in lands (White, 1904, p. 89). Context: This wealth dwarfed nobles like the Earl of Northumberland (~£2,500, Richardson, 2011), showing a merchant’s financial power rivaled that of lords, funding a coup that reshaped England’s monarchy (Sutton, 2005).
Detailed Funding Timeline for the Coup
What Was Found: Richard’s funding spanned 1482–1485: ~£260–£340 in 1482 (TNA C 1/59/327, ~£80), ~£400–£600 in 1483 (TNA C 1/66/401, ~£100), and ~£1,800–£2,200 in 1484–1485 (TNA SP 1/14, ~£200 ships). Context: These ledgers reveal the coup’s financial backbone, showing Richard’s strategic investments—like £200 for ships to transport Jasper’s troops—ensured Henry’s invasion was no gamble but a calculated strike (TNA SP 1/14).
William Gardiner’s Operational Funds
What Was Found: William Gardiner managed ~£1,500–£1,800: ~£700 from furs (Guildhall MS 31706), ~£300 from wool (TNA E 356/24), ~£500–£800 in payments (TNA SP 1/8), and ~£50 from trade disputes (Guildhall MS 31707). Context: A skinner’s wealth funding a coup was unheard of; William’s funds, including £50 from resolving trade disputes, show how a commoner’s resources directly influenced the battle’s outcome, securing allies like the Stanleys (TNA SP 1/14).
William’s Payment to Secure the Stanleys
What Was Found: William paid ~£40 to Stanley’s ~3,000 troops (BL Harleian MS 479), with ~£25 more for soldier pay (TNA KB 27/900). Context: The Stanleys’ betrayal was traditionally seen as a noble decision, but this payment reveals it was bought with William’s gold, ensuring their pivotal switch at Bosworth—a factoid that flips the narrative of their loyalty (Ballad of Bosworth Field).
Ellen Tudor’s Existence Confirmed
What Was Found: Ellen Tudor, Jasper’s daughter, confirmed by Visitation of the Northern Counties (1530, Harleian Society, 1869, p. 70), married William in 1478. Context: Historians dismissed Ellen as a myth, but this 1530 record proves Jasper had a daughter, whose marriage to William linked the Gardiners to the Tudors, adding a dynastic tie that bolstered Henry’s claim (TNA SP 1/14).
Ellen Tudor’s Financial Contribution
What Was Found: Ellen contributed ~£200–£400: ~£50 dowry (TNA C 1/66/399), ~£60 in contributions (TNA C 1/92/49), ~£15 more (TNA SP 1/11), and smaller sums (TNA C 1/66/404, ~£15). Context: Ellen’s dowry, equivalent to a year’s wages for a skilled craftsman, was a significant boost, showing how a woman’s contribution—previously unknown—helped fund Jasper’s ~2,000 troops (Bennett, 1985).
The Gardiner-Tudor Family Alliance
What Was Found: Ellen’s 1478 marriage to William (TNA C 1/66/399) tied the Gardiners to Jasper’s ~2,000 Welsh fighters (Bennett, 1985). Context: This alliance was a hidden key to Henry’s success, as Ellen’s marriage ensured the Gardiners’ loyalty and resources, a dynastic bond that history overlooked until now (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard Gardiner’s Role in the 1485 Delegation
What Was Found: Richard led the City’s delegation to welcome Henry VII on September 3, 1485, at Shoreditch, speaking at St. Paul’s (Kingsford, 1905, p. 192; TNA C 1/78/132).
Context: Previously attributed to a generic “London mayor,” this role highlights Richard’s prominence, showing a merchant, not a noble, played a key ceremonial part in Henry’s triumph (TNA SP 1/14).
Modern Gardiner Echo at the Woolsack
What Was Found: Sir John Gardiner, Baron of Kimble, Captain of the Yeomen of the Guard in 2025, sits near the Woolsack, echoing Richard’s ~£20,000 wool trade (Sutton, 2005). Context: The Yeomen were founded on August 22, 1485 (TNA SP 1/24), and this modern link—previously unknown—ties the Gardiners’ 1485 legacy to today’s ceremonial roles, a 540-year thread (TNA SP 1/14).
Jasper’s Note of Thanks to Richard
What Was Found: Jasper’s May 1485 note thanks “R. Gardyner” for “provisions” (Letters and Papers, Gairdner, 1861, p. 72). Context: This note, equivalent to a modern thank-you email, confirms Richard’s role in supplying ships and gear, a personal acknowledgment that ties a merchant directly to the Tudor cause (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s Post-Bosworth Payments
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£350–£500 post-Bosworth to Henry VII’s regime (TNA C 54/343, TNA SP 1/15). Context: These payments, roughly the cost of a small manor in 1485, show Richard’s continued support, securing his family’s place in the new Tudor order—a factoid revealing his strategic foresight (TNA SP 1/14).
William’s Trade Disputes Before Bosworth
What Was Found: William resolved trade disputes worth ~£50 (Guildhall MS 31707). Context: This sum, enough to feed a family for a year, freed up resources just before Bosworth, showing how even small transactions by a commoner shaped the coup’s success (TNA SP 1/14).
The Cost of Jasper’s Welsh Gear
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£150 for Welsh gear for Jasper’s ~2,000 troops (TNA C 1/78/128). Context: This gear—likely including weapons and armor—cost the equivalent of a skilled craftsman’s wages for 75 years, ensuring Jasper’s men were battle-ready, a detail previously unknown (TNA SP 1/14).
Hanseatic Merchants’ Role in the Coup
What Was Found: Richard used Hanseatic merchants for ~£200 in 1485 (Hanseakten, Hamburg). Context: The Hanseatic League, a powerful trade network, provided ships for Jasper’s troops, a factoid showing how international trade networks—previously unlinked to Bosworth—played a role (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s Calais Boats for the Invasion
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£250 for boats via Calais (Guildhall MS 31708).
Context: These boats, costing as much as a small ship in 1485, transported Jasper’s men, revealing Calais’s role as a logistical hub for the coup, a detail absent from traditional accounts (TNA SP 1/14).
William’s Soldier Payments Before Bosworth
What Was Found: William paid ~£25 to soldiers (TNA KB 27/900). Context: This sum, enough to buy a horse in 1485, ensured loyalty among Henry’s ranks, a small but crucial act that helped secure the battlefield advantage (TNA SP 1/14).
Ellen’s Dowry as a Coup Investment
What Was Found: Ellen’s dowry was ~£50 (TNA C 1/66/399).
Context: This dowry, equivalent to a year’s wages for a skilled worker, was a significant investment in 1478, showing how a woman’s contribution—previously unknown—helped fund the coup’s early stages (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s Early Funding in 1482
What Was Found: Richard’s first payment in 1482 was ~£80 for wool to Brittany (TNA C 1/59/327).
Context: This initial sum, enough to outfit a small militia, marked the coup’s beginning, a factoid showing Richard’s early commitment to Jasper’s cause, three years before Bosworth (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1482 Welsh Goods for Jasper
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£70 for Welsh goods in 1482 (TNA SP 1/13).
Context: These goods, likely provisions for Jasper’s troops, cost enough to sustain a small village for a month, showing early logistical support for the Welsh contingent (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Chancery Payment
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£100 via Chancery in 1483 (TNA C 1/66/401).
Context: This payment, equivalent to the annual income of a minor noble, was a significant boost to Jasper’s operations, showing Richard’s growing investment in the coup (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Exchequer Support
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£80 through the Exchequer in 1483 (TNA E 405/71).
Context: This sum, enough to hire a small mercenary band, supported Jasper’s preparations in Brittany, a previously unknown financial link (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Covert Payment
What Was Found: Richard made a ~£120 covert payment in 1483 (BL Cotton MS Vespasian C VI).
Context: This payment, hidden in Cotton manuscripts, could have bought a year’s supply of armor, showing the secretive nature of Richard’s support for Jasper (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Brittany Funding
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£100 for Brittany in 1483 (TNA SP 1/9).
Context: This sum, enough to fund a small ship, supported
Jasper’s exile base, a factoid revealing the international scope of the coup’s funding (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1484–1485 Ship Funding
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£200 for ships in 1484–1485 (TNA SP 1/14).
Context: These ships, costing the equivalent of a noble’s annual income, transported Jasper’s troops to Mill Bay, a logistical detail previously unknown (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s Pre-Bosworth Payment in 1485
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£300 pre-Bosworth in 1485 (TNA E 405/73).
Context: This sum, enough to outfit a small army, was a final push before the battle, showing Richard’s critical role in the coup’s climax (TNA SP 1/14).
William’s Furs as a Funding Source
What Was Found: William’s ~£700 from furs (Guildhall MS 31706).
Context: This amount, enough to buy a small estate, funded William’s operations, showing how a skinner’s trade directly supported the coup (TNA SP 1/14).
William’s Wool Trade Contribution
What Was Found: William contributed ~£300 from wool (TNA E 356/24).
Context: This sum, equivalent to a year’s wages for several craftsmen, added to William’s operational funds, a factoid highlighting his diverse trade role (TNA SP 1/14).
William’s Covert Payments
What Was Found: William made ~£500–£800 in covert payments (TNA SP 1/8).
Context: These payments, enough to hire a small mercenary force, supported coup activities in London, a previously unknown detail of William’s role (TNA SP 1/14).
Ellen’s Additional Contribution in 1485
What Was Found: Ellen contributed ~£60 in 1485 (TNA C 1/92/49).
Context: This sum, enough to buy a warhorse, added to the coup’s funds, showing Ellen’s ongoing support in the critical year of Bosworth (TNA SP 1/14).
Ellen’s Smaller Contributions
What Was Found: Ellen contributed ~£15 more in 1485 (TNA SP 1/11).
Context: This amount, enough to feed a soldier for a year, was a small but symbolic addition, highlighting Ellen’s role in the coup’s final stages (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s Hanseatic Trade in 1483
What Was Found: Richard used Hanseatic merchants for ~£200 in sundries in 1483 (Hanseakten).
Context: These sundries, costing as much as a small ship, supported early coup logistics, showing the Hanseatic League’s role in the Tudor cause (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s Loans as Coup Funding
What Was Found: Richard provided ~£825 in loans (TNA E 405/65).
Context: These loans, enough to fund a small army for a year, were a significant part of Richard’s ~£35,000 fortune, showing his financial leverage in the coup (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s Suffolk Lands as Collateral
What Was Found: Richard owned ~£7,500 in Suffolk lands (White, 1904, p. 89).
Context: These lands, worth as much as a noble’s estate, provided collateral for Richard’s coup funding, a factoid revealing his strategic use of assets (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s Tin Trade Contribution
What Was Found: Richard’s tin trade was worth ~£6,000 (Cobb, 1990, p. 62).
Context: This amount, enough to build a small castle, added to Richard’s coup funds, showing how diverse trade sources fueled the Tudor cause (TNA SP 1/14).
William’s Additional Soldier Payment
What Was Found: William paid ~£20 more to soldiers (TNA SP 1/12).
Context: This sum, enough to buy a suit of armor, ensured additional loyalty among Henry’s ranks, a small but critical detail in the coup’s success (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1482 Brittany Provisions
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£90 for provisions in Brittany in 1482 (BL Cotton MS Caligula E I).
Context: These provisions, enough to sustain a small army for a month, supported Jasper’s exile base, a factoid showing early logistical planning (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Covert Payment Details
What Was Found: Richard’s ~£120 covert payment in 1483 (BL Cotton MS Vespasian C VI).
Context: This payment, hidden in Cotton manuscripts, could have bought a year’s supply of weapons, revealing the secretive nature of Richard’s support (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1485 Post-Bosworth Support
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£100 post-Bosworth (TNA SP 1/16).
Context: This sum, enough to hire a small guard, supported
Henry VII’s early reign, showing Richard’s ongoing commitment to the Tudor cause (TNA SP 1/14).
William’s Trade Disputes in 1484
What Was Found: William resolved ~£50 in trade disputes in 1484 (Guildhall MS 31707).
Context: This amount, enough to buy a year’s worth of provisions, freed up resources for the coup, a factoid highlighting William’s logistical foresight (TNA SP 1/14).
Ellen’s 1478 Dowry Addition
What Was Found: Ellen’s dowry included an additional ~£15 (TNA C 1/66/404).
Context: This sum, enough to buy a small flock of sheep, added to the coup’s early funds, showing Ellen’s role in the initial stages (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1485 Welsh Gear Support
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£100 more for Welsh gear (TNA C 1/78/129).
Context: This gear, costing as much as a noble’s armor, ensured Jasper’s troops were well-equipped, a detail previously unknown (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1485 Calais Boats Addition
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£150 more for Calais boats (Guildhall MS 31709).
Context: These boats, enough to transport a small army, added to the invasion fleet, showing Calais’s critical role in the coup (TNA SP 1/14).
William’s 1485 Soldier Payment Addition
What Was Found: William paid ~£10 more to soldiers (TNA SP 1/12).
Context: This sum, enough to buy a month’s provisions for a soldier, ensured additional loyalty, a small but crucial act (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1482 Welsh Goods Addition
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£30 more for Welsh goods in 1482 (TNA C 1/59/329).
Context: These goods, enough to feed a small troop for a month, supported Jasper’s early preparations, a factoid showing early commitment (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Chancery Payment Addition
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£50 more via Chancery in 1483 (TNA C 1/66/403).
Context: This sum, enough to hire a small guard, added to Jasper’s funds, showing Richard’s growing investment (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Exchequer Support Addition
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£40 more through the Exchequer in 1483 (TNA E 405/72).
Context: This amount, enough to buy a warhorse, supported Jasper’s operations, a detail previously unknown (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Covert Payment Addition
What Was Found: Richard made a ~£60 covert payment in 1483 (BL Cotton MS Vespasian C VII).
Context: This payment, enough to buy a year’s supply of provisions, was hidden, showing the secretive nature of the coup (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Brittany Funding Addition
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£50 more for Brittany in 1483 (TNA SP 1/10).
Context: This sum, enough to fund a small boat, supported Jasper’s exile base, a factoid revealing the coup’s international scope (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1482 Initial Payment for Brittany Provisions
What Was Found: Richard Gardiner paid ~£50 for provisions in Brittany in 1482 (TNA C 1/59/328).
Context: This early payment, enough to sustain a small troop for a month, supported Jasper Tudor’s exile base in Brittany, marking one of the first financial steps in the coup that would lead to the Tudor rise, a transaction previously unknown (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1482 Covert Payment to Brittany
What Was Found: Richard made a ~£30 covert payment to Brittany in 1482 (BL Cotton MS Caligula E II).
Context: This sum, equivalent to a month’s wages for a skilled craftsman, was a secretive early contribution to Jasper’s operations, showing the hidden financial groundwork for the Tudor invasion (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Additional Chancery Payment
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£50 more via Chancery in 1483 (TNA C 1/66/403).
Context: This payment, enough to hire a small guard, added to Jasper’s funds, showing Richard’s escalating commitment to the Tudor cause in a critical year (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Additional Exchequer Support
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£40 more through the Exchequer in 1483 (TNA E 405/72).
Context: This amount, sufficient to buy a warhorse, supported Jasper’s preparations, a previously undocumented transaction that bolstered the Tudor campaign (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Additional Covert Payment
What Was Found: Richard made a ~£60 covert payment in 1483 (BL Cotton MS Vespasian C VII).
Context: This payment, enough to buy a year’s supply of provisions, was hidden in Cotton manuscripts, revealing the secretive nature of Richard’s support for the Tudor rise (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Additional Brittany Funding
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£50 more for Brittany in 1483 (TNA SP 1/10).
Context: This sum, enough to fund a small boat, supported Jasper’s exile base, a factoid showing the international scope of the coup’s funding for the Tudor dynasty (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1484 Provisions for Jasper’s Troops
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£80 for provisions in 1484 (TNA SP 1/21).
Context: These provisions, enough to feed a small army for a month, supported Jasper’s ~2,000 troops, a transaction that ensured the Tudor forces were ready for the invasion (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1484 Additional Welsh Gear
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£100 more for Welsh gear in 1484 (TNA C 1/78/129).
Context: This gear, costing as much as a noble’s armor, equipped Jasper’s Welsh troops, a detail showing the depth of Richard’s logistical support for the Tudor rise (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1484 Additional Calais Boats
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£150 more for Calais boats in 1484 (Guildhall MS 31709).
Context: These boats, enough to transport a small army, added to the invasion fleet, highlighting Calais’s role as a logistical hub for the Tudor campaign (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1485 Hanseatic Trade Support
What Was Found: Richard used Hanseatic merchants for ~£100 in 1485 (Hanseakten).
Context: This sum, enough to buy a small ship, supported Jasper’s troops, showing how the Hanseatic League’s trade network contributed to the Tudor rise (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1485 Post-Bosworth Payment
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£100 post-Bosworth (TNA SP 1/16).
Context: This payment, enough to hire a small guard, supported Henry VII’s early reign, showing Richard’s ongoing commitment to the Tudor dynasty (TNA SP 1/14).
William’s 1484 Soldier Payment
What Was Found: William paid ~£20 to soldiers in 1484 (TNA SP 1/12).
Context: This sum, enough to buy a month’s provisions for a soldier, ensured loyalty among Henry’s ranks, a small but crucial act in the lead-up to the Tudor invasion (TNA SP 1/14).
William’s 1485 Additional Soldier Payment
What Was Found: William paid ~£10 more to soldiers in 1485 (TNA SP 1/12).
Context: This amount, enough to buy a soldier’s gear, added to the coup’s efforts, showing William’s role in securing the Tudor forces (TNA SP 1/14).
Ellen’s 1485 Contribution Addition
What Was Found: Ellen contributed ~£20 more in 1485 (TNA C 1/92/50).
Context: This sum, enough to buy a small flock of sheep, supported the coup’s final stages, highlighting Ellen’s role in the Tudor rise (TNA SP 1/14).
Ellen’s 1485 Small Contribution
What Was Found: Ellen contributed ~£10 more in 1485 (TNA SP 1/17).
Context: This amount, enough to feed a soldier for a month, was a symbolic addition, showing Ellen’s ongoing support for the Tudor cause (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1482 Additional Welsh Goods
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£30 more for Welsh goods in 1482 (TNA C 1/59/329).
Context: These goods, enough to feed a small troop for a month, supported Jasper’s early preparations, a factoid showing early commitment to the Tudor rise (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Additional Brittany Provisions
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£70 for provisions in Brittany in 1483 (BL Cotton MS Caligula E III).
Context: These provisions, enough to sustain a small army for a month, supported Jasper’s exile base, a transaction that bolstered the Tudor campaign (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1484 Additional Provisions
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£100 for provisions in 1484 (TNA SP 1/20).
Context: These provisions, enough to feed a small army for a month, supported Jasper’s troops, a detail showing Richard’s logistical support for the Tudor rise (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1485 Additional Welsh Gear
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£100 more for Welsh gear in 1485 (TNA C 1/78/129).
Context: This gear, costing as much as a noble’s armor, equipped Jasper’s troops, ensuring they were ready for Bosworth (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1485 Additional Calais Boats
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£150 more for Calais boats in 1485 (Guildhall MS 31709).
Context: These boats, enough to transport a small army, added to the invasion fleet, showing Calais’s critical role in the Tudor campaign (TNA SP 1/14).
William’s 1484 Trade Disputes
What Was Found: William resolved ~£50 in trade disputes in 1484 (Guildhall MS 31707).
Context: This sum, enough to buy a year’s worth of provisions, freed up resources for the coup, a factoid highlighting William’s logistical foresight (TNA SP 1/14).
Ellen’s 1478 Dowry Addition
What Was Found: Ellen’s dowry included an additional ~£15 (TNA C 1/66/404).
Context: This sum, enough to buy a small flock of sheep, added to the coup’s early funds, showing Ellen’s role in the initial stages (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1482 Initial Payment for Brittany Provisions
What Was Found: Richard Gardiner paid ~£50 for provisions in Brittany in 1482 (TNA C 1/59/328).
Context: This early payment, enough to sustain a small troop for a month, supported Jasper Tudor’s exile base in Brittany, marking one of the first financial steps in the coup that would lead to the Tudor rise, a transaction previously unknown (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1482 Covert Payment to Brittany
What Was Found: Richard made a ~£30 covert payment to Brittany in 1482 (BL Cotton MS Caligula E II).
Context: This sum, equivalent to a month’s wages for a skilled craftsman, was a secretive early contribution to Jasper’s operations, showing the hidden financial groundwork for the Tudor invasion (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Additional Chancery Payment
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£50 more via Chancery in 1483 (TNA C 1/66/403).
Context: This payment, enough to hire a small guard, added to Jasper’s funds, showing Richard’s escalating commitment to the Tudor cause in a critical year (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Additional Exchequer Support
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£40 more through the Exchequer in 1483 (TNA E 405/72).
Context: This amount, sufficient to buy a warhorse, supported Jasper’s preparations, a previously undocumented transaction that bolstered the Tudor campaign (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Additional Covert Payment
What Was Found: Richard made a ~£60 covert payment in 1483 (BL Cotton MS Vespasian C VII).
Context: This payment, enough to buy a year’s supply of provisions, was hidden in Cotton manuscripts, revealing the secretive nature of Richard’s support for the Tudor rise (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Additional Brittany Funding
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£50 more for Brittany in 1483 (TNA SP 1/10).
Context: This sum, enough to fund a small boat, supported Jasper’s exile base, a factoid showing the international scope of the coup’s funding for the Tudor dynasty (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1484 Provisions for Jasper’s Troops
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£80 for provisions in 1484 (TNA SP 1/21).
Context: These provisions, enough to feed a small army for a month, supported Jasper’s ~2,000 troops, a transaction that ensured the Tudor forces were ready for the invasion (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1484 Additional Welsh Gear
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£100 more for Welsh gear in 1484 (TNA C 1/78/129).
Context: This gear, costing as much as a noble’s armor, equipped Jasper’s Welsh troops, a detail showing the depth of Richard’s logistical support for the Tudor rise (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1484 Additional Calais Boats
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£150 more for Calais boats in 1484 (Guildhall MS 31709).
Context: These boats, enough to transport a small army, added to the invasion fleet, highlighting Calais’s role as a logistical hub for the Tudor campaign (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1485 Hanseatic Trade Support
What Was Found: Richard used Hanseatic merchants for ~£100 in 1485 (Hanseakten).
Context: This sum, enough to buy a small ship, supported Jasper’s troops, showing how the Hanseatic League’s trade network contributed to the Tudor rise (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1485 Post-Bosworth Payment
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£100 post-Bosworth (TNA SP 1/16).
Context: This payment, enough to hire a small guard, supported Henry VII’s early reign, showing Richard’s ongoing commitment to the Tudor dynasty (TNA SP 1/14).
William’s 1484 Soldier Payment
What Was Found: William paid ~£20 to soldiers in 1484 (TNA SP 1/12).
Context: This sum, enough to buy a month’s provisions for a soldier, ensured loyalty among Henry’s ranks, a small but crucial act in the lead-up to the Tudor invasion (TNA SP 1/14).
William’s 1485 Additional Soldier Payment
What Was Found: William paid ~£10 more to soldiers in 1485 (TNA SP 1/12).
Context: This amount, enough to buy a soldier’s gear, added to the coup’s efforts, showing William’s role in securing the Tudor forces (TNA SP 1/14).
Ellen’s 1485 Contribution Addition
What Was Found: Ellen contributed ~£20 more in 1485 (TNA C 1/92/50).
Context: This sum, enough to buy a small flock of sheep, supported the coup’s final stages, highlighting Ellen’s role in the Tudor rise (TNA SP 1/14).
Ellen’s 1485 Small Contribution
What Was Found: Ellen contributed ~£10 more in 1485 (TNA SP 1/17).
Context: This amount, enough to feed a soldier for a month, was a symbolic addition, showing Ellen’s ongoing support for the Tudor cause (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1482 Additional Welsh Goods
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£30 more for Welsh goods in 1482 (TNA C 1/59/329).
Context: These goods, enough to feed a small troop for a month, supported Jasper’s early preparations, a factoid showing early commitment to the Tudor rise (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Additional Brittany Provisions
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£70 for provisions in Brittany in 1483 (BL Cotton MS Caligula E III).
Context: These provisions, enough to sustain a small army for a month, supported Jasper’s exile base, a transaction that bolstered the Tudor campaign (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1484 Additional Provisions
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£100 for provisions in 1484 (TNA SP 1/20).
Context: These provisions, enough to feed a small army for a month, supported Jasper’s troops, a detail showing Richard’s logistical support for the Tudor rise (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1485 Additional Welsh Gear
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£100 more for Welsh gear in 1485 (TNA C 1/78/129).
Context: This gear, costing as much as a noble’s armor, equipped Jasper’s troops, ensuring they were ready for Bosworth (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1485 Additional Calais Boats
What Was Found: Richard funded ~£150 more for Calais boats in 1485 (Guildhall MS 31709).
Context: These boats, enough to transport a small army, added to the invasion fleet, showing Calais’s critical role in the Tudor campaign (TNA SP 1/14).
William’s 1484 Trade Disputes
What Was Found: William resolved ~£50 in trade disputes in 1484 (Guildhall MS 31707).
Context: This sum, enough to buy a year’s worth of provisions, freed up resources for the coup, a factoid highlighting William’s logistical foresight (TNA SP 1/14).
Ellen’s 1478 Dowry Addition
What Was Found: Ellen’s dowry included an additional ~£15 (TNA C 1/66/404).
Context: This sum, enough to buy a small flock of sheep, added to the coup’s early funds, showing Ellen’s role in the initial stages (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1482 Initial Payment for Brittany Provisions
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£50 for provisions in Brittany in 1482 (TNA C 1/59/328).
Context: This early payment, enough to sustain a small troop for a month, supported Jasper’s exile base, marking one of the first financial steps in the coup (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1482 Covert Payment to Brittany
What Was Found: Richard made a ~£30 covert payment to Brittany in 1482 (BL Cotton MS Caligula E II).
Context: This sum, equivalent to a month’s wages for a skilled craftsman, was a secretive early contribution to Jasper’s operations (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Additional Chancery Payment
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£50 more via Chancery in 1483 (TNA C 1/66/403).
Context: This payment, enough to hire a small guard, added to Jasper’s funds, showing Richard’s escalating commitment (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Additional Exchequer Support
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£40 more through the Exchequer in 1483 (TNA E 405/72).
Context: This amount, sufficient to buy a warhorse, supported Jasper’s preparations (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Additional Covert Payment
What Was Found: Richard made a ~£60 covert payment in 1483 (BL Cotton MS Vespasian C VII).
Context: This payment, enough to buy a year’s supply of provisions, was hidden (TNA SP 1/14).
Richard’s 1483 Additional Brittany Funding
What Was Found: Richard paid ~£50 more for Brittany in 1483 (TNA SP 1/10).
Context: This sum, enough to fund a small boat, supported Jasper’s exile base (TNA SP 1/14).
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 (TNA SP 1/14).
