The Mortimer History Society

Rediscovery of Mortimer Window in Cirencester

This one is for the Gazetteer! Your chairman was 
gazing at the medieval splendours of St. John the Baptist Church, the parish church of Cirencester, when to his surprise he saw a full Mortimer shield amongst some other medieval glass high up in the NE window of the north chapel. Why was it there? No Mortimer presence had been discovered in the area, and no support given for the Augustinian Abbey, then a powerful institution.

The clue is in the other heraldic emblems. Mortimer experts in heraldry – please send the answer! But the story must be linked to the crowned head. Two very wealthy Cirencester wool merchants were backing Richard Duke of York, stating in the window his claims to the throne, giving his royal descent especially through his mother Anne Mortimer. As you know Richard died in the Wars of the Roses, but his son became Edward IV. 

Calling all Members

 Do come to the AGM, in Leominster, on February 11. See Events Page.

We need your support and advice. Besides there will be a fascinating presentation by the new Mortimer Dress, Costumes and Textiles Group, and you will have the opportunity of seeing the new Earl Mortimer College as well as meeting old and new friends.