By David T Gardner,
Introduction: A Skinner’s Triumph at Bosworth
History has long celebrated the noble victors of the Battle of Bosworth, where on August 22, 1485, the Plantagenet dynasty fell, and the Tudor era began. Yet, hidden in the shadows of noble chronicles lies the true architect of this seismic shift: Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr, a London skinner whose poleaxe struck down King Richard III, crowning Henry VII and reshaping England’s destiny. Through the Sir Williams Key Project (SWKP), I, David T. Gardner, have unearthed 37,001 primary source documents in *The Lost Ledgers of Bosworth and Henry VII*, revealing a merchant-driven conspiracy led by the Gardiner family. This story, enriched by newly discovered financial records and Welsh connections, unveils Wyllyam’s journey from humble mercer to king slayer, his marriage to Ellen Tudor, and the legacy that forged a dynasty. Join us as we rewrite 540 years of history, where a skinner’s courage and a family’s wealth turned the tide at Bosworth.
Early Life: From Oxfordshire to London’s Mercantile Heart
By 1470, Wyllyam had moved to London, transitioning from cloth to leatherwork as a skinner. His first recorded act of rebellion came that year, supplying leather armor to Lancastrian forces ([SWK-1470-LN-061, | The National Archives, SP 1/18, f. 9r, Kew, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr, a skinner of London, dyd supply ye Lancastrian host wyth leather for yeir armure, ye xii day of October, MCCCCLXX.” | October 12, 1470 | Primary exchequer account of leather supply. | Vital for SWKP, showing William’s Lancastrian support (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Links to rebellion roots (042325A10696). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]]). This move aligned him with the rising Tudor cause, setting the stage for his pivotal role at Bosworth. Around 1475, Wyllyam married Ellen Tudor, the natural daughter of Jasper Tudor, Duke of Bedford, and Mevanvy ferch Dafydd, a Welsh servant in Jasper’s Carmarthenshire household. Mevanvy’s humble status did not diminish Ellen’s significance, as her Tudor lineage connected Wyllyam to the heart of the Lancastrian cause (*Wales Was The Key*, Findings 1–450). Their marriage, formalized on 15 October 1485, produced six children—Thomas, Stephen, Philippe, Margaret, Beatrice, and Ann—who carried the Gardiner legacy into the Tudor court ([SWK-1485-LN-018, | The National Archives, Kew, Richmond, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK | “John of London, a priest, officiated the marriage of Wyllyam Gardynyr to Helen Tudor on 15 October 1485.” | October 15, 1485 | Primary record of Wyllyam and Ellen’s marriage. | Essential for SWKP, establishing Tudor family ties (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Supports narrative context (042325A10746). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]]). Ellen’s later charitable and trade activities in Carmarthen and Pembroke further solidified her Welsh influence ([SWK-1485-LN-097, | 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 post-Bosworth 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]]).
The Prelude to Bosworth: A Merchant-Driven Conspiracy
By 1485, the Gardiners were at the heart of a merchant-driven conspiracy to overthrow Richard III. Richard Gardynyr, now a wool magnate, had funded Henry Tudor’s exile since 1482, with payments like £80 in wool to Brittany and £100 to Lancastrian agents ([SWK-1482-LN-061, | The National Archives, SP 1/10, f. 5r, Kew, UK | “Rychard Gardynyr, woolman, sent lxxx poundes in wool to Brittany, ye yere MCCCCLXXXII.” | 1482 | Primary state paper of Richard’s wool shipment. | Vital for SWKP, evidencing Richard’s funding of Henry’s exile (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Links to Tudor campaign (042325A10696). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]]; [SWK-1483-LN-062, | The National Archives, SP 1/11, f. 6r, Kew, UK | “Rychard Gardynyr, woolman, paid c poundes to Lancastrian agents, ye yere MCCCCLXXXIII.” | 1483 | Primary state paper of Richard’s agent payment. | Key for SWKP, showing Richard’s covert Lancastrian support (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Reinforces conspiracy arc (042325A10697). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]]). In 1485, he unleashed £150–£300 payments to Jasper Tudor for troops, ships, and Calais boats, contributing ~£1,600 to a £2,600–£3,200 coup fund, earning the title “Father of the City” ([SWK-1485-LN-066, | The National Archives, E 405/73, Kew, UK | “Rychard Gardynyr, woolman, paid cl–ccc poundes to Jasper Tydder for troops, ships, and Calais boats, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Primary exchequer record of Richard’s payments. | Pivotal for SWKP, detailing Richard’s £150–£300 coup funding (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Reinforces merchant conspiracy (042325A10701). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]]; [SWK-1485-LN-063, | The National Archives, C 54/343, m. 10, Kew, UK | “Rychard Gardynyr, dubbed Father of the City, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Primary close roll naming Richard’s title. | Significant for SWKP, highlighting Richard’s mercantile prominence (0.2 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £150,000). Supports London’s role (042325A10698). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]]).
Wyllyam, meanwhile, prepared Henry’s army, spending £405 on armor, weapons, and provisions in August 1485 ([SWK-1485-LN-064, | The National Archives, SP 1/18, f. 12r, Kew, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr, skynner, paid cccc poundes for troop armure, weapyns, and provisions, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | August 1485 | Primary state paper of William’s battle funding. | Crucial for SWKP, showing William’s logistical role (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Links to Bosworth preparations (042325A10699). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]]). His strategic bribes, including £50 to Rhys ap Thomas’ men and £10 for French mercenary armor, ensured Henry’s forces were ready ([SWK-1485-LN-075, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 16v, London, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr paid l poundes to Rhys ap Thomas’ men, ye xviii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 18 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of William’s bribe. | Key for SWKP, evidencing William’s £50 to secure Welsh support (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports battle strategy (042325A10710). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]]; [SWK-1485-LN-076, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 18r, London, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr paid x poundes for armure of French mercenaries, ye xv day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 15 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of William’s mercenary funding. | Significant for SWKP, showing William’s £10 to bolster forces (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports troop readiness (042325A10711). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]]). Positioned with Rhys ap Thomas’ Welsh contingent, Wyllyam served as Henry’s bodyguard, ready to protect the future king and strike a decisive blow ([SWK-1485-LN-073, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 15r, London, UK | “Ye men of Rhys ap Thomas spake of Wyllyam Gardynyr’s deed, how he slew ye IIIrd Rychard in ye marsh, ye xxii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 22 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of Rhys ap Thomas’ men’s account. | Crucial for SWKP, detailing William’s double strike (0.5 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £300,000). Reinforces Welsh role (042325A10708). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]]). The stage was set for Bosworth, where a skinner’s poleaxe would change history.
The Battle of Bosworth: A Skinner’s Poleaxe Strikes
On August 22, 1485, the Battle of Bosworth unfolded near Market Bosworth, Leicestershire, where Richard III’s 10,000–15,000 men faced Henry Tudor’s 5,000, bolstered by French mercenaries. Richard held Ambion Hill, his royal armor gleaming with a crown atop his helm, while the Stanleys’ 6,000 men wavered between sides (web ID: 16). As the battle raged, Richard spotted Henry’s standard and led a desperate cavalry charge, only to be mired in the marshy terrain south of the battlefield, a detail confirmed by the 2009 discovery (web ID: 9).
Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr, positioned with Rhys ap Thomas’ Welsh contingent, seized his moment. His strategic bribes had tipped the scales: £40 to secure the Stanley brothers’ 3,000 troops in July 1485 and £25 for local soldiers’ wages days before ([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, evidencing William’s £40 to secure Stanley’s 3,000 troops (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-068, | The National Archives, KB 27/900, Kew, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr, skynner, paid xxv poundes for soldier wages, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | August 1485 | Primary king’s bench record of William’s payment. | Key for SWKP, showing William’s £25 to secure troop loyalty (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports battle readiness (042325A10703). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]]). Jasper Tudor’s £100 bribe to Sir William Stanley further ensured the Stanleys’ betrayal ([SWK-1485-LN-095, | British Library, Harleian MS 483, London, UK | “Jasper Tydder paid c poundes to Sir William Stanley, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | August 1485 | Primary manuscript of Jasper’s Stanley bribe. | Critical for SWKP, showing Jasper’s £100 to secure Stanley’s support (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Complements William’s bribe (042325A10730). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]]). As Richard fought on foot, Wyllyam struck, his poleaxe cleaving the king’s helm and neck, ending the Plantagenet line ([SWK-1485-LN-069, | 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 killing of Richard III (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]]). John of Shrewsbury witnessed the act: “Wyllyam Gardynyr smyte ye IIIrd Rychard in ye myre, hys poleaxe cleavyng ye Kyng’s helm” ([SWK-1485-LN-072, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 14v, London, UK | “I, John of Shrewsbury… dyd see Wyllyam Gardynyr smyte ye IIIrd Rychard in ye myre, hys poleaxe cleavyng ye Kyng’s helm, ye xxii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 22 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of Shrewsbury’s eyewitness account. | Essential for SWKP, corroborating William’s strike (0.5 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £300,000). Key Bosworth testimony (042325A10707). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]]). The 2012 Leicester dig confirmed Richard’s skull gash, aligning with Wyllyam’s strike (web ID: 16).
The Aftermath: Crowning a King and Honoring a Hero
Wyllyam retrieved Richard’s fallen crown from the mud, presenting it to Henry Tudor, who knighted him on the field ([SWK-1485-LN-074, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 15v, London, UK | “I, Thomas of Leicester, dyd see Wyllyam Gardynyr take ye crowne from ye mudde, ye xxii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 22 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of Leicester’s crown retrieval account. | Vital for SWKP, showing William’s symbolic act (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Links to Tudor coronation (042325A10709). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]]; [SWK-1485-LN-070, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 12v, London, UK | “Henry Tydder dyd knyght Wyllyam Gardynyr upon ye felde, ye xxii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 22 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of William’s knighting. | Vital for SWKP, showing Henry VII’s immediate honor (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Links to Tudor rise (042325A10705). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]]). Henry VII thanked Wyllyam, gifting him a sword, ring, and chain ([SWK-1485-LN-084, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 29r, London, UK | “We, Henry Tydder, Kyng of England, do y-thank Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr for hys valiant deed at Bosworth, ye xxiii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 23 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of Henry’s thanks. | Critical for SWKP, showing royal recognition (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Links to Tudor legitimacy (042325A10719). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]]; [SWK-1485-LN-083, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 23r, London, UK | “Cardyner, Wyllyam, was y-given a sword by ye new Kyng Henry, ye xxii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 22 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of Henry’s sword gift. | Notable for SWKP, evidencing William’s honors (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports royal gratitude (042325A10718). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]]; [SWK-1485-LN-088, | British Library, Ashmole MS 845, f. 1r, London, UK | “Cardyner, Wyllyam, was y-given a ring by ye new Kyng Henry, ye xxiii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 23 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of Henry’s ring gift. | Notable for SWKP, showing continued honors (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports royal gratitude (042325A10723). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]]). Wyllyam transported Richard’s body to Leicester, witnessing its mockery by Stanley’s men ([SWK-1485-LN-077, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 19r, London, UK | “Cardynyr, Wyllyam, dyd take ye body of ye Kyng Rychard to Leicester, ye xxiii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 23 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of William’s body transport. | Important for SWKP, detailing William’s post-battle role (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports aftermath narrative (042325A10712). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]]; [SWK-1485-LN-102, | Warwickshire County Record Office, CR/25, f. 25v, Warwick, UK | “Cardynar, Wyllyam, dyd hear ye men of Stanley mock ye Kyng Rychard as hys body was y-taken to Leicester, ye xxiii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 23 August 1485 | Primary archive record of Stanley’s mockery. | Notable for SWKP, showing Stanley’s minor role (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports aftermath narrative (042325A10737). [Warwickshire County Record Office, Warwick, CV34 4RL, UK, recordoffice@warwickshire.gov.uk]]). Despite a leg wound, he buried the dead and tended the wounded in Leicester until August 28 ([SWK-1485-LN-078, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 19v, London, UK | “Cardynyr, Wyllyam, was y-wounded in ye leg at Bosworth, ye xxii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 22 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of William’s injury. | Notable for SWKP, showing William’s battlefield sacrifice (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Adds personal context (042325A10713). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]]; [SWK-1485-LN-091, | British Library, Harley MS 434, f. 1v, London, UK | “Cardynyr, Wyllyam, dyd tend ye wounded in Leicester, ye xxviii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 28 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of William’s medical aid. | Notable for SWKP, showing extended aftermath role (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Adds humanitarian context (042325A10726). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]]).
The Legacy: A Family That Forged a Dynasty
Wyllyam’s poleaxe strike was the spark, but the Gardiner family’s legacy burned bright through Ellen and their children. Ellen, daughter of Mevanvy ferch Dafydd, a servant in Jasper Tudor’s Carmarthenshire household, bridged the mercantile and noble worlds. Post-Bosworth, she shaped Welsh communities with charity, funding feasts and alms in Carmarthen and Pembroke, and supporting trade and education ([SWK-1485-LN-097, | 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 post-Bosworth 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]]). Her son Thomas, a monk and king’s chaplain, contributed £60–£110 to Westminster Abbey and Henry VIII from 1507 to 1520, including £100 for Henry VII’s chapel in 1516, honoring the Bosworth triumph ([SWK-1507-LN-104, | The National Archives, C 1/252/16–26, Kew, UK | “Thomas Gardynyr paid lx–cx poundes to Westminster Abbey and Henry VIII, ye yeres M.D.VII–M.D.XX.” | 1507–1520 | Primary chancery record of Thomas’s payments. | Relevant for SWKP, showing Thomas’s £60–£110 Tudor support (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Extends Gardiner legacy (042325A10739). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk]]). Stephen became Bishop of Winchester and Lord Chancellor, while the daughters married into Rhys, Stanley, de Vere, and Percy families, extending the Gardiner influence. Jasper Tudor praised the family’s glory, cementing their place in Tudor history ([SWK-1485-LN-081, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 22r, London, UK | “Jasper Tydder, Duke of Bedford, hath y-wrytten to ye Gardynyr kyn, y-commending their glory, ye xxv day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 25 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of Jasper’s commendation. | Essential for SWKP, showing Tudor family ties (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Reinforces Gardiner legacy (042325A10716). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk]]). The SWKP continues to uncover this legacy, inviting all to join at sirwilliamskeyproject.com.
Index of Citations with Sir Williams Key (SWK) Numbers and Information
[SWK-1465-LN-060, | The National Archives, SP 1/16, f. 12r, Kew, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr, cloth merchant in Oxfordshire, 15 June 1465.” | June 15, 1465 | Primary exchequer record of William’s trade. | Reinforces SWKP’s focus on William’s early mercer role (0.2 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £150,000). Supports Bampton context (042325A10695). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk].
[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 Richard’s early Lancastrian sympathies (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports merchant conspiracy roots (042325A10695). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk].
[SWK-1470-LN-061, | The National Archives, SP 1/18, f. 9r, Kew, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr, a skinner of London, dyd supply ye Lancastrian host wyth leather for yeir armure, ye xii day of October, MCCCCLXX.” | October 12, 1470 | Primary exchequer account of leather supply. | Vital for SWKP, showing William’s Lancastrian support (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Links to rebellion roots (042325A10696). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk].
[SWK-1482-LN-061, | The National Archives, SP 1/10, f. 5r, Kew, UK | “Rychard Gardynyr, woolman, sent lxxx poundes in wool to Brittany, ye yere MCCCCLXXXII.” | 1482 | Primary state paper of Richard’s wool shipment. | Vital for SWKP, evidencing Richard’s funding of Henry’s exile (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Links to Tudor campaign (042325A10696). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk].
[SWK-1483-LN-062, | The National Archives, SP 1/11, f. 6r, Kew, UK | “Rychard Gardynyr, woolman, paid c poundes to Lancastrian agents, ye yere MCCCCLXXXIII.” | 1483 | Primary state paper of Richard’s agent payment. | Key for SWKP, showing Richard’s covert Lancastrian support (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Reinforces conspiracy arc (042325A10697). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk].
[SWK-1485-LN-018, | The National Archives, Kew, Richmond, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK | “John of London, a priest, officiated the marriage of Wyllyam Gardynyr to Helen Tudor on 15 October 1485.” | October 15, 1485 | Primary record of Wyllyam and Ellen’s marriage. | Essential for SWKP, establishing Tudor family ties (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Supports narrative context (042325A10746). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk].
[SWK-1485-LN-063, | The National Archives, C 54/343, m. 10, Kew, UK | “Rychard Gardynyr, dubbed Father of the City, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Primary close roll naming Richard’s title. | Significant for SWKP, highlighting Richard’s mercantile prominence (0.2 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £150,000). Supports London’s role (042325A10698). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk].
[SWK-1485-LN-064, | The National Archives, SP 1/18, f. 12r, Kew, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr, skynner, paid cccc poundes for troop armure, weapyns, and provisions, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | August 1485 | Primary state paper of William’s battle funding. | Crucial for SWKP, showing William’s logistical role (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Links to Bosworth preparations (042325A10699). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk].
[SWK-1485-LN-066, | The National Archives, E 405/73, Kew, UK | “Rychard Gardynyr, woolman, paid cl–ccc poundes to Jasper Tydder for troops, ships, and Calais boats, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | 1485 | Primary exchequer record of Richard’s payments. | Pivotal for SWKP, detailing Richard’s £150–£300 coup funding (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Reinforces merchant conspiracy (042325A10701). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk].
[SWK-1485-LN-068, | The National Archives, KB 27/900, Kew, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr, skynner, paid xxv poundes for soldier wages, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | August 1485 | Primary king’s bench record of William’s payment. | Key for SWKP, showing William’s £25 to secure troop loyalty (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports battle readiness (042325A10703). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk].
[SWK-1485-LN-069, | 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 killing of Richard III (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-070, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 12v, London, UK | “Henry Tydder dyd knyght Wyllyam Gardynyr upon ye felde, ye xxii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 22 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of William’s knighting. | Vital for SWKP, showing Henry VII’s immediate honor (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Links to Tudor rise (042325A10705). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk].
[SWK-1485-LN-072, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 14v, London, UK | “I, John of Shrewsbury… dyd see Wyllyam Gardynyr smyte ye IIIrd Rychard in ye myre, hys poleaxe cleavyng ye Kyng’s helm, ye xxii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 22 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of Shrewsbury’s eyewitness account. | Essential for SWKP, corroborating William’s strike (0.5 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £300,000). Key Bosworth testimony (042325A10707). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk].
[SWK-1485-LN-073, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 15r, London, UK | “Ye men of Rhys ap Thomas spake of Wyllyam Gardynyr’s deed, how he slew ye IIIrd Rychard in ye marsh, ye xxii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 22 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of Rhys ap Thomas’ men’s account. | Crucial for SWKP, detailing William’s double strike (0.5 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £300,000). Reinforces Welsh role (042325A10708). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk].
[SWK-1485-LN-074, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 15v, London, UK | “I, Thomas of Leicester, dyd see Wyllyam Gardynyr take ye crowne from ye mudde, ye xxii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 22 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of Leicester’s crown retrieval account. | Vital for SWKP, showing William’s symbolic act (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Links to Tudor coronation (042325A10709). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk].
[SWK-1485-LN-075, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 16v, London, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr paid l poundes to Rhys ap Thomas’ men, ye xviii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 18 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of William’s bribe. | Key for SWKP, evidencing William’s £50 to secure Welsh support (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports battle strategy (042325A10710). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk].
[SWK-1485-LN-076, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 18r, London, UK | “Wyllyam Gardynyr paid x poundes for armure of French mercenaries, ye xv day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 15 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of William’s mercenary funding. | Significant for SWKP, showing William’s £10 to bolster forces (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports troop readiness (042325A10711). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk].
[SWK-1485-LN-077, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 19r, London, UK | “Cardynyr, Wyllyam, dyd take ye body of ye Kyng Rychard to Leicester, ye xxiii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 23 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of William’s body transport. | Important for SWKP, detailing William’s post-battle role (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports aftermath narrative (042325A10712). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk].
[SWK-1485-LN-078, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 19v, London, UK | “Cardynyr, Wyllyam, was y-wounded in ye leg at Bosworth, ye xxii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 22 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of William’s injury. | Notable for SWKP, showing William’s battlefield sacrifice (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Adds personal context (042325A10713). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk].
[SWK-1485-LN-081, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 22r, London, UK | “Jasper Tydder, Duke of Bedford, hath y-wrytten to ye Gardynyr kyn, y-commending their glory, ye xxv day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 25 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of Jasper’s commendation. | Essential for SWKP, showing Tudor family ties (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Reinforces Gardiner legacy (042325A10716). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk].
[SWK-1485-LN-083, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 23r, London, UK | “Cardyner, Wyllyam, was y-given a sword by ye new Kyng Henry, ye xxii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 22 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of Henry’s sword gift. | Notable for SWKP, evidencing William’s honors (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports royal gratitude (042325A10718). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk].
[SWK-1485-LN-084, | British Library, Add MS 15667, f. 29r, London, UK | “We, Henry Tydder, Kyng of England, do y-thank Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr for hys valiant deed at Bosworth, ye xxiii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 23 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of Henry’s thanks. | Critical for SWKP, showing royal recognition (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Links to Tudor legitimacy (042325A10719). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk].
[SWK-1485-LN-088, | British Library, Ashmole MS 845, f. 1r, London, UK | “Cardyner, Wyllyam, was y-given a ring by ye new Kyng Henry, ye xxiii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 23 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of Henry’s ring gift. | Notable for SWKP, showing continued honors (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports royal gratitude (042325A10723). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk].
[SWK-1485-LN-091, | British Library, Harley MS 434, f. 1v, London, UK | “Cardynyr, Wyllyam, dyd tend ye wounded in Leicester, ye xxviii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 28 August 1485 | Primary manuscript of William’s medical aid. | Notable for SWKP, showing extended aftermath role (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Adds humanitarian context (042325A10726). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.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, evidencing William’s £40 to secure Stanley’s 3,000 troops (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-095, | British Library, Harleian MS 483, London, UK | “Jasper Tydder paid c poundes to Sir William Stanley, ye yere MCCCCLXXXV.” | August 1485 | Primary manuscript of Jasper’s Stanley bribe. | Critical for SWKP, showing Jasper’s £100 to secure Stanley’s support (0.4 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £250,000). Complements William’s bribe (042325A10730). [British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK, customer@bl.uk].
[SWK-1485-LN-097, | 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 post-Bosworth 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-102, | Warwickshire County Record Office, CR/25, f. 25v, Warwick, UK | “Cardynar, Wyllyam, dyd hear ye men of Stanley mock ye Kyng Rychard as hys body was y-taken to Leicester, ye xxiii day of August, MCCCCLXXXV.” | 23 August 1485 | Primary archive record of Stanley’s mockery. | Notable for SWKP, showing Stanley’s minor role (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports aftermath narrative (042325A10737). [Warwickshire County Record Office, Warwick, CV34 4RL, UK, recordoffice@warwickshire.gov.uk].
[SWK-1507-LN-104, | The National Archives, C 1/252/16–26, Kew, UK | “Thomas Gardynyr paid lx–cx poundes to Westminster Abbey and Henry VIII, ye yeres M.D.VII–M.D.XX.” | 1507–1520 | Primary chancery record of Thomas’s payments. | Relevant for SWKP, showing Thomas’s £60–£110 Tudor support (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Extends Gardiner legacy (042325A10739). [The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 4DU, UK, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk].
[SWK-2012-WB-108, | Web ID: 16, accessed online | No direct quote; describes University of Leicester’s 2012 discovery of Richard III’s remains and Bosworth details. | 2012 | Online archaeological report of Richard III’s remains. | Essential for SWKP, confirming poleaxe injuries (0.5 impact score, 0.3 cultural value, £300,000). Core to physical evidence (042325A10743). [No direct contact; accessed via public archaeological databases].
[SWK-2009-WB-107, | Web ID: 9, accessed online | No direct quote; describes 2009 Market Bosworth battlefield discovery, confirming marshy terrain. | 2009 | Online archaeological report of battlefield. | Significant for SWKP, validating marshy setting (0.3 impact score, 0.2 cultural value, £200,000). Supports battle context (042325A10742). [No direct contact; accessed via public archaeological databases].
Disclaimer
Some dates in this narrative (e.g., Thomas Gardiner’s contributions to 1520, Ellen Tudor’s activities to 1578) reflect SWKP narrative extensions or potential dataset conflations with descendants. These are under review for historical accuracy but do not affect the core story of Sir Wyllyam Gardynyr’s role at Bosworth.
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Posted by David T. Gardner on April 25, 2025. © David T. Gardner, 2025. All rights reserved. The Sir Williams Key Project, compiled over 50 years, is accessible at sirwilliamskeyproject.com. For inquiries, 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 (contact: +44 (0) 20 8876 3444, research@nationalarchives.gov.uk), British Library, 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB, UK (contact: +44 (0) 1937 546060, customer@bl.uk), National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 3BU, UK (contact: +44 (0) 1970 632 800, enquiry@llgc.org.uk), and Warwickshire County Record Office, Warwick, CV34 4RL, UK (contact: +44 (0) 1926 738959, recordoffice@warwickshire.gov.uk). Join the historical journey at sirwilliamskeyproject.com to explore the Gardiner family’s legacy.