Happy New Year (and a quick update)

I would like to wish everyone a happy 2008 (still 11 hours to go here in Texas, but I know some of you have already changed calendars on the other side of the planet!)!

I have some updates and blog posts to make that were *supposed* to be done over the break, but my laptop died right after arriving in Alabama and then my boyfriend and I got really sick (I got the better end of the deal... he ended up with pneumonia, I just had a really bad cold). We made it back to Texas a couple of days ago but we're both still recovering. And the laptop is a couple of days away from getting fixed, so I probably won't be making any more posts until that is back up and running. I have back-ups of everything, but I like to keep my most up-to-date copies of everything in one place so I don't get things mixed up. I usually have everything on my thumbdrive, but of course, I copied it all to the laptop shortly before it died so I wouldn't have to worry about losing the thumddrive on the trip. Oh well! I'm guessing everything will be back up and running and as close to normal as they ever get the first full week in January.

I have all the query submissions that have come in and will be posting them in the next few days, not to worry! Thanks for everyone's patience in this, I really appreciate it.

Happy New Year!

Traveling for Christmas

I'll be on the road most of the day tomorrow and then visiting with friends and family for a while, so updates may be sparse and slow. So, if I don't get a chance to post again until the new year, I just wanted to wish everyone a happy holiday season, no matter what you celebrate this time of year! Here's to a great 2008!

Question from Jeniann - Pierced ears

I haven't been able to find info on this anywhere! Did Tudor women pierce their ears? I know in most movies you see pierced ears, but I always figured that was because the actress had one. I'd imagine they had earrings of some kind, and in one portrait of Elizabeth I (Rainbow) you can see a pair that don't look like clip-ons. Does anyone know anything else about this?

Question from Kim - Canes or walking sticks at court

What was the custom regarding the use of canes or walking sticks within Queen Elizabeth's court? In particular, would Francis Walsingham be permitted to use such an aparatus?

Question from Lis - Black cloth or ribbon on portraits

I have come across a couple of portraits (and have heard of more) where the sitter is portrayed wearing a piece of black cloth or ribbon tied around the upper arm. Was this a sign that the wearer was in mourning - similar to the black arm bands worn in later times and even up to the present day. If it was not a sign of mourning, does anyone know what it was? Many thanks.

Question from Raquel - More info on Kathryn Howard

I am very interested in Kathryn Howard the fifth wife of Henry. Her pictures were destroyed from what I gather as well as some not being sure if the main photo used, as her, is truly her. I want to find descriptions of her looks and presence. I have found some words on both Anne’s and so on, but no good visions of her. I heard she was fair, possible the fairest of his wives but no mention of the color of her hair and eyes and so on. Also, why is birth date and place so confusing? Do you think this information was loss to Henry's anger with her? For some reason she is my favorite and I would love to know as much I can about her.

Question from Jane - Henry VIII's influence on politics

Hi everyone:)

I'm sitting here in Denmark, writing my final high school assignment in history and english class, about the time in england around Henry VIII.
I need to write about the politics in Brittain in the 1530'ies and how Henry had an influence in it, but I simply can't find anything. I need something that includes original texts, and I found that there were lot to find around the 1590'ies, but nearly nothing about the 1530'ies. I'm looking for reliable websites about the subject, and I would be very thankfull if anyone has a great link, which can enlighten me to the 1530'ies politics in England. I have allready dealt with subjects such as the reformation and the enclsure of sheeps.

I wish you all a nice warm christmas:)

Question from Jackie - Tudor lineage

My cousin's husband claims he is a direct descendant of the Tudor lineage. He claims he can trace his family tree all the way back to Queen Elizabeth. Considering she was the "Virgin Queen" how is this possible? His mother's maiden name is Tudor. I thought the Tudor line ended with Elizabeth. I know there was at least one bastard recognized male child of Henry VIII but I thought he died young without any heirs. Is this possible?

Question from James - Security for the King and court

In the court of a Tudor monarch, who would provide the protection or security for the king or other courtiers.Where they just Guards?

James Duffy

aged 9

4th grade

Question from Monica -Online versions of "Letters and Papers", etc.

I love looking at the original sources for Henry VIII's reign, but hate having to go to the library each time. Is there a digital version of these, volumes such as Letters and Papers of the Reign of Henry VIII? I'd love to have these on disc so I could just read through, or find them on the internet. Or is there anywhere you can buy the set, affordably?

Question from Monica - Dispensation for Henry's marriage to Jane Seymour

On the day of Anne Boleyn's execution, Henry VIII obtained a dispensation for him to marry Jane Seymour, although in the third degree of affinity. To my understanding, he meant her second cousin.

Now Jane and Henry were only fifth cousins, so I assume he had an affair with her second cousin. I can't find out who this might mean! I know she was related to the Bryans, so thought it might mean Elizabeth Carew (nee Bryan), the wife of Nicholas Carew and the sister of Francis Bryan. But I can find no mention of how closely related they were.

Any ideas?

Question from Monica - Women Henry VIII was attracted to after Kathryn Howard

After Katherine Howard's arrest, it was rumoured that Henry was attracted to three women: Elizabeth Brooke, the ex-wife of Thomas Wyatt; Lord Lisle's stepdaughter [probably Anne Basset] and
'the daughter of Madame Albart, the niece of the Grand Esquire, Master Anthony Browne'
(Chapuys to Charles V; CSP, Spanish, 1538-42, no. 230).
Anyone know who this refers to? And is he saying that the woman is the niece or the daughter of the niece of Anthony Browne? I know that Anthony Browne came from a large family, especially as the Fitzwilliams were his half-siblings. Chapuys often write names wrongly, but I don't know who Madame Albart might mean. Please help!

Question from Louisa - Spurs on cushions from "The Tudors"

In the episode of The Tudors shown on Friday 16th November, something caught my eye which made me feel very ignorant!
At the service of rememberence/thanksgiving/funeral of William Compton, (not sure exactly what it was!), all the women who had lost their menfolk were in church and had their husbands spurs on a cushion next to them. Was this common practice or something put in by the 'imaginative' writers of the series!
Hope you can help!

Happy Thanksgiving!

I would like to wish all my fellow Americans a Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you had a chance to spend it with family and friends. I would also like to give thanks to all of you who read the site and help answer questions!

Question from Anna C. - What would the Tudors think of our portrayals of them?

I just have kind of a fun question to ask-opinion wise-do you think Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn would be pleased with any of their portrayals in books and movies? For example, do you think they'd be historically flattered or horrified at the way they are being shown in "The Other Boleyn Girl"?

Question from Josh - Tudor Monarch and Parliament

Which phrase do you think best describes the Tudor Monarchs relations with Parliament?

a. angry and tense

b. respectful and cooperative

c. royal and absolutist

d. confused and unprodctive

Thanks

Question from Sam - Population and the Mid-Tudor crisis

How important a factor was population increase in contributing to the economic crisis of the mid tudor period, and what effect did it have on England?

Question from Maynard - Vegetarianism and Veganism in Tudor England?

How would I (or any student or graduate researcher) explore vegetarianism and veganism (?) in Tudor England?

Many issues could be explored:
agricultural challenges and prosperity, the rise of meat eating, ethical and extra-ethical challenges to prevailing food mores, philosophy, actual practice, theatrical notes on vegetarians and vegetarian practices and values and beliefs, ritual notes on the topic, religion and vegetarian practices, etc.

I'm hoping to find an ongoing discussion of this topic, not a cut and dried answer.

Several sources could be Bloodless Revolution and Colin Spencer's books.

I don't know that Professor Rynn Berry, a vegetarian historian and literary specialist at the New School in Brooklyn (I think in comparative literature), has written on this topic; his interests seem to have shifted towards comparing modern vegetarians with ancient vegetarian practices in the 'classical periods' of Greece and Rome.

Question from Alex - Tudor juggling

Homework is to find history on Tudor juggling balls supported with a picture.

Test

test post

Elizabeth's birth hour

To the person who sent several emails about this... I tried to respond directly to you, but the email bounced.

Hall's Chronicle says that Elizabeth was born between three and four in the afternoon. That's as close to an exact time as I could find.

Question from Elysia - Crime and Punishment

I am in year 4 and we have been asked to do a project on the tudors
I need more information as to Crime and punishment

Any Ideas

Thanks Elysia

Question from Cat - Lower-class Tudor surnames

Hi, I'm a year 4 teacher and we are about to start our history topic about famous Tudors and Tudor life. I want to give my children a Tudor name and job and base some role play/drama around this and was wondering if anyone can give me any good surnames that were common during this time?? I'm going to do a mixture of upper and lower class - I've got some famous Tudor names for the upper class characters, but am a bit stuck with names for the lower classes! I need about 8 names.
Thanks f

Question from Emma - Tudor Christmas carols

Hello

I was hoping someone would know if there are any christmas carols around today that the tudors first sang??? I know the tudors were one of the first to sing christmas carols but i can not find out what they actually sang.

Thankyou

Em

Question from Allison - Who was best, who was worst?

(I know this is a mostly opinion-based question, but I thought some of you might have fun commenting on it)

Hi, Who was the best and worst tudor out of
Henry VIII, Edward VI, Mary I and Elizabeth I?

Many Thanks

Question from Ollie - Daily life of Tudor nobles

Hi, I'm in Year 8 and am doing a project about Nobles in Tudor times. What did the Tudor Nobles do most of the time? You know like the daily life of a noble. Thanks

Question from Alice - "Bloody Mary"

I am in year 8 and need to do an essay on whether or not Mary the first deserves her nickname 'Bloody Mary'. I am supposed to give an argument (for and against) but can't think of any reasons or sources for against? Can you help? Do you know any good sources/reasons/websites that disagree with the nickname? It will help at lot becuase I am going to be graded. Thanks!

Reminder about submitting questions

Please, please make sure you type your email address in correctly! Sometimes I respond directly back to people if the question might not really be suited to the blog and if you don't type your email address in (or type it in wrong), I can't reply. If you don't see your question here after a couple of days and didn't get a direct email response from me, that might be why.

Thanks,
Lara

Question from Hilary - Greeting question

Hi
Have recently read a book by Rosemary Sutcliffe called "Lady on Waiting" about Walter Raleigh and his wife. The characters all greeted one another with "God den". Never heard of this before can you please explain. Many thanks.
Hilary

Question from Laura - Recommended non-fiction on Elizabeth I

What biographies/non-fiction books about Elizabeth I would you guys recommend?

Question from Julia - Translation help

Hello guys!I'm from Poland and I need to translate the text but I have problems to do it:/ this is a fragment of the narrative:"...reding it,the modest frown anxiously, trying to recall the Wars of the Roses and Henry VII’s family tree, forgotten since the third form
(and wasn’t there something about a thornbush?)."
How can I understand a "third form"?as a generation?And how do you understand "thornbush"?Please, help me!!:)

Question from Heather - Henry VIII's "uncle" from "The Tudors" ep. 1

Ok watched the first episode of The Tudors, loved it, but i was a bit confused by Henry calling the man who was assinated at the beginning of the episode as his Uncle. I don't think Henry VII had any syblings. Did Margaret Beauford gain any stepchildren with her other two marriages? How can Henry call the man who was his ambassador in the episode his uncle? Or was it just an honorary title he gave this man?

Question from Julie - Who signed the Act of Supremacy

Hi, I am looking for a list of the people who signed the Act of Supremacy. I could not find a list on the internet...do you have a list?? Thanks so much!!

Question from Britta - Tudor influence on furniture

Im doing a project in college on the history of furniture (fetac level 6) and I have to describe how the reigning monarch influenced the style of furniture made at that time.......I would greatly appricate any pointers. thank you

Question from M. L. - Anne of Cleves post-Henry VIII

When did Anne of Cleves convert to Catholicism, and where might I find information about her life post-Henry? Thanks!

Question from Mike - More on Elizabeth Woodville...

Just to piggy-back off of Gordy. Why was Elizabeth Woodville denied her dower lands? I'm sure it has alot to do with the politics of the time but, I'd like it if you can give me a little more information on the subject.

Thank you,

Mike

Question from Gordy - Elizabeth Woodville and Children

I am interested in the fate of Elizabeth Woodville, and her surviving children, what became of them?

Question from Tom - Symbols of married lady

Is a complete ruff a sign that a lady is married or is it the small gold broach in her hair l/h side?

Test

Just seeing if this blog is working again too...

Question from Sara - Germany and the Holy Roman Empire in the Tudor era

I have a question about Germany during the Tudor Era. I know that Germany was part of the Holy Roman Empire, but was the name Germany associated with it that early, or did the name come later? Also, what were people from the Holy Roman Empire called? Thanks a lot for any answers you can give me.

Question from Nicky - Memorial to Kat Ashley

Hi,
After being fascinated by the tudors for many years, I was thrilled to get 'The Virgin Queen' as a present.
I have one question, in the film, you see Elizabeth looking at a memrial to Kat Ashley. does such a memrial really exist?

Many thanks
Nicky

Question from Sandra - Old rhyme about Henry VIII

Can anyone help me with this one. I remember from school part of a poem about Henry VIII it goes like this

"Bluff King Hal was full of beans, he married half a dozen queens, for 3 called Kate he cried the banns, 1 called Jane and a couple of Annes."

Can you help with the rest of the verses it goes on to describe all the wifes and what happened to them. I would love to get the rest of the words for my children as I think it is a great way to remember and help them with their history.

Question from Sterence - Order of service of Philip and Mary's wedding

Is there a published version of the order of service for Philip and Mary's wedding? I'm particularly interested in any information about the music at (or before/after) the service.
Thanks!

Question from Colleen - Wealthy household Christmas dinner

What are some examples of food that a wealthy earl and his family might eat at Christmas dinner?

Question from Mark - Tudor speech/dialogue

Really pleased to have found your wonderful site. It has been of huge use already.

I have to create a 26 year old woman in the New Forest in 1502. She is Martha to me but if this name does not fit then period suggestions would be welcome. She is married with Children and lives a peasant or commoners life. I have some ideas how she and her family might support themselves but am keen to hear of unusual or peculiarly local crafts or trades that might sustain them. I think I am going to find it quite hard to write her speech. Should I concern myself with "Tudor talk" or try to find the oldest available indication of "Forest/Hampshire talk".

Repeat question - Where the wives are buried

Someone sent this in and didn't leave an email address for me to respond directly to, so I'll just post it here. The questioner was asking for a list of where the wives are buried, and that question was addressed here: https://queryblog.tudorhistory.org/2006/06/question-from-veralidaine-where-wives.html

For the record, you can search this blog in the bar at the top of the page. Also, the burial places for each of the wives mentioned on each of their biography pages on the main part of the website.

Question from Aaron - Margaret Tudor's monkey

In the portrait of Queen Margaret Tudor by Daniel Mytens, does anyone know the story of the monkey the Queen is holding? What type of monkey was it, where was it from, how did it arrive in Britain, was it her personal pet, etc.? How common were such monkeys as pets, were they exclusive to royalty?

Question from Colleen - Servants in a great house

What are the typical servants that would be found in a great house? Like one owned by an earl?

Question from Mike - Mary Tudor and Charles Brandon

Just to piggy back off of Isabel's question.

What was the issue with "Mary Tudor" sister of Henry VIII marrying Charles Brandon?

Question from Isabel - Marriages in Tudor England

In Tudor England would a noble girl be able to marry a common boy? What would be the punishment for eloping?

Question from Barb - Elizabethan trials

I am trying to find some information about the proceedure in an Elizabethan Trial of a non Titled Person..
Who were the main players ?
Who asked the Questions, was there a Jury?
What would the proceedure have been?
What entitlements did the accused have?
Would they have been entitled to council?
Hope someone can help me as I am stuck for information...

Regards Barb

Question from Matt - Looking for information on Martin Schwartz

Hi,

After information on the personal life of Martin Schwartz the German Mercenary Captain at the battle of stoke. I know the military history, but was wandering if anyone knew anything about the way he looked, and his personal life, i.e was he ever married or were there any historical logs of any partners, land ownage and wealth please

Question from Mike - Persons of color at the Tudor court?

While watching the Sho-Time series "The Tudors" I notice that there were a few (black) characters in a couple of the episodes. So, it made me wonder being a person of color myself.

Were there any persons of color in any of the courts leading up to the Tudor Dynasty? And if so what role(s) did they play?

Question from Colleen - What was a large amount of money in Tudor times?

I am writing a historical novel set in the time of Henry VIII's marriage to Katharine Parr. I've found information on money in Tudor times, but I can't really figure out what was considered a HUGE amount of money. The premise of my story consists of a father selling his young daughter to an earl for an obscene bride price, but I don't know what an obscene bride price would be and I'd like my story to be accurate. Thanks!

Forms fixed

Sorry I'm just now getting around to fixing the submission forms for the penpal listings, new links and the Q&A blog. The address that it uses to do the form post action changed for some reason so it broke all my forms!

On travel for a few days

I just wanted to let folks know that I'm going to be traveling for work through Sunday, so I won't be answering emails or making blog posts in that time period. I'll have internet access, but I don't think I'll have a lot of time to deal with non-work stuff!

Sorry for the interruption

My apologies to anyone who came looking for the website over the past 18 or so hours. I goofed on my domain renewal (I thought it was renewed through 2008, but obviously not!), but all should be sorted out now. And it's renewed through 2010, so if this little episode is repeated, at least it won't be for another three years.

The funny (and sad) thing is that I was first clued on to the fact that something was wrong when I checked my email this morning and I only had 5 spam emails in my tudorhistory folder (I usually get between 30 and 50 overnight).

Question from Peggy - Margaret Wentworth Seymour

Just curious. Does anyone know what happened to Margaret Wentworth Seymour the mother of Jane, Thomas, and Edward? I know her husband died when Jane was Queen but it seems as if she's never mentioned again.

Question from Lis - Bleaching linen, etc. in Tudor times

I was told (quite a long time ago now!)that the Tudors used urine to bleach/whiten their linen shifts. I know that urine was used in the preparation of leather and wool. However, recently I was told that urine was not used on the shifts to bleach them, but that wood ash was used instead. Help! Any comments/suggestions/references/information would be gratefully received! Thanks.

Question from Chad - Jane Seymour miscarriage?

I read once that Jane Seymour suffured a miscarriage before giving birth to Edward VI. Is this true?

Question from Patrick - Elizabeth I and "A Midsummer Night's Dream"

Hey there am doing an in depth comparison between Elizabeth I and a midsummer nights dream. I'm trying to get an actually bibliographic link between the "idleness-In-waiting" flower AKA the Pansy and Elizabeth but i can't seem to find it in anything I can reference.
yeah this is for uni

Question from Roo - Catherine's reaction to the Divorce

Please help if you can.
Wjsat was Catherine of aragons reaction when henry went to so much trouble to divorce her?
If anyone has any information reguarding this question then please inform me.
Roo x-x-x
Age: 12

Question from Mike - The bloody wedding sheets

I read somewhere that during Henry VIII attemps to obtain a divorce from Catherine of Aragon, he ordered the sheets from the marital bed of his brother Prince Arthur and Catherine of Aragon be produced. Which would have been some 20+ years past.

So, my question to you is this, was it or is it a custom to preserve the sheets of the royal couples wedding night? Or is it just some made up fable.

Question from Ron - Info on a Lady-in-Waiting

Like Carolyn I also have an ancestor reputed to have been a "Lady-in-Waiting" in the 15th Century.
Her name is Anna Margaretta Regina Pedissiqua who married Thomas Berry at Berrynarbor, North Devon circa 1480/ 1483.
Any information will be most welcome and I will be happy to swap info with interested parties.

Question from Ani - Tudor history programs

I am a high school student and would like to know if there are any good colleges in either the USA or England that offer good programs in Tudor history. I would like to become a professor of Tudor History when I get older so any information would help.

Thanks,
Ani

[we've had a question like this before, but I figure it wouldn't hurt to put it out there again]

Question from djelliott - Tudor Rose needlepoint designs

I am looking for a needlepoint-appropriate Tudor Rose design. Anyone seen one? Is there any 'right' or 'wrong' color scheme? I've seen one design on the net that shows a narrow red edge and pink (?).

Question from Mike - Elizabeth at Philip and Mary's wedding

Did Elizabeth play a role in the wedding of Mary and Phillip?

[editor's note -- great question! I've never thought about that before!]

Question from Lyn - Part-time Tudor history course

I would like to do a part - time course in Tudor History, either by correspondence or actual attendance (nr Yeovil Somerset) but am having trouble finding anything suitable. Any suggestions please.

Question from Jo - Anne and Henry's wedding gift bed

I would like to know what happened to the bed that Francis 1st had made for King Henry V111 and Anne Boleyn as a wedding gift.
It was mentioned in a book by Thomas Hackett.

Thank you
Jo

Question from Misty - Henry's feelings about Anne's imprisonment, etc.

I wrote a piece on Anne Boleyn for my blog www.madameroyale.com, and I started to research on how henry felt when he threw Anne in the tower and how he felt about her death. In your findings have you uncovered any information? I have found it particularly hard to anything on this subject.

Thank you,
Misty from Madame Royale

Question from Helen - BBC Tudor Feast program

Hi,

I am trying to find a copy of the BBC 2 programme a Tudor Feast.

Does anyone know where I can get a copy or where if there is a site I can download it from?

Also could anyone point me in the right direction for finding out how the Tudors decorated their homes at Christmas?

Thanks

[note - the second part of this post was already dealt with in another post a few days ago]

Question from Barbara - Descriptions of Henry's Wives

Can you direct me to original source descriptions of the physical appearance of each of the wives of Henry VIII?

Question from Lis - Christmas decorations in Tudor times

Can anyone tell me - or tell me where to find! - information on the type of decorations, if any that were common at Christmas in Tudor times? Not so much at court, but, for example,in the house of fairly wealthy Elizabethans? Obviously no Christmas trees etc, and I know they used greenery for garlands etc; but did they use anything else for decoration?

Question from Marcy - Henry VIII son by Mary Berkeley (Perrot)?

Did Henry VIII father a child by Mary Berkeley, who took her husband's name Perrot? I understand he later became Sir John Perrot. Thanks

Question from Sara - Kathryn Howard's birth year

I know that for many people during the Tudor Dynasty, their dates of birth are not known since they did not keep good records. One of those people is Katherine Howard. I noticed that on your website it says she was born in 1521, while in other places it says 1525. In Alison Weir's "The Six Wives of Henry VIII" it says why she thnks it's 1525, but are your reasons for the 1521 date?

Question from Richard - John Heron and Cardinal Morton

im having trouble working out the roles played by John Heron and Cardinal Morton, in the Henry VII's reign.

can anyone help?

Question from Mike - Henry VII's claim to the throne

I'm sure you must have answered this question a million times, but I'll ask again since I'm new to this blog which I think is wonderful.

Exactly what was Henry VII claim to the throne of England?

Question from Patricia - Letter of Elizabeth I in the Tower

I am looking for any letters that Elizabeth I wrote while she was in the Tower of London. If anyone could help me I would greatly appreciate it.

Also, was Elizabeth's "Tide Letter" written while she was in Tower of London or somewhere else?

Question from Mike - Anne Boleyn's year of birth

Does anyone know the exact date/year that Anne Boylen was born? Everywhere I've read so far has given me conflicting dates.

To pre-empt any further questions about Margaret Tudor...

As I'm sure some of you have figured out by now, the portrayal of Margaret Tudor's story in the Showtime series is NOT the same as the life of the real Margaret Tudor. In the series, the story is basically that of Mary Tudor (Henry VIII's sister), but my guess is that they decided to use Margaret's name to avoid any confusion with the other Mary Tudor (Henry VIII's daughter).

Since the series started out in 1520 when Francis I was already King of France, they couldn't fit the real marriage saga of Mary Tudor into the series timeline as it actually happened in history. In reality Mary married Louix XII of France in 1514 and he died a few months later in 1515 and was succeeded by Francis I. Since this all took place before the time that the series started (1520), they moved it to a later year and used the King of Portugal instead of the King of France. Mary (or Margaret, in the series) does later marry Charles Brandon and they are the grandparents of the ill-fated Lady Jane Grey.

The real Margaret Tudor was married to James IV of Scotland (and had two marriages after that) and was the mother of James V of Scotland, who in turn was the father of Mary Queen of Scots. Margaret's great-grandson was James VI of Scotland, who became James I of England after the death of Elizabeth I. So, as you can see, Margaret's real story is very different from that of the character with that name in the Showtime series.

Now, to complicate things even further, the character biographies on the Showtime series website give the history of the REAL characters, which will be quite confusing to anyone who reads them and is watching the series (and seeing a different story!).

Question from Kelly - Sybilla of Cleves

I am looking for any information at all about Sybilla of Cleves.

Question from Brian - Tudor family history

Hello, my name is Brian Tudor Harris Jr. My grandmother is from england. just want to know how to look up family history to see where i am related to the tudors. thanks

Question from Susan - Other Tudor wax figures

I have been able to find online photos of wax figures of Henry VIII, his wives, and Elizabeth. I have been unsuccessful in trying to find out if there are wax figures of (Bloody) Mary Tudor and Edward Tudor. Does anyone know if there are any? I had no luck when I looked at the Madame Tussaud's site.

Question from Jill - Anne Boleyn's burial

I have multi-part question about the burial site of Anne Boleyn. Everything I have read indicates and initial internment at St. Peter ad Vincula (which is what the tour guides at the Tower of London claim is the final resting place). However, there are other versions that indicate a different final resting place. One version indicates that her "friends" removed her remains and re-buried them in a Norfolk churchyard. Another indicates that her heart was removed and buried in a Thetford churchyard. Is there any truth to these claims?

Question from Hilda - Queen Elizabeth I

I am 16 and in 10th grade. I am doing a research paper on Queen Elizabeth I for my grammar class. We are practicing our basic writing skills. I have a couple of questions.
1. What changes did Queen Elizabeth I make to the economy to make flourish?
2. Were there certain things she encouraged such as trade with other countries, trade within England, etc.?
3. What were some of the things did she do to make literature and art flourish?
If these questions can be answered, it would be really awesome!
Thanks!

Questions from Alice - Project on poverty

1. How did the catastrophic events of the 'Black Plague' and the 'Great Fire of London' affect those living in poverty in central London?

2. What were the significant factors in explainging the reasons/causes of poverty in early modern England 1559-67?

3. What laws and legistations were put in place by the Monarch / government in order to minimise the amount of those living poverty?

These are questions I have regarding a school project, I'm 18. Thanks alot. Alice

Question from Dru - Background on Anne's "B" necklace

I'd love to know if anyone knows the history behind Anne's famous "B" necklace? Beyond the 'B' obviously standing for Boleyn I can't seem to find any information on it. It seems so distinctive and has become one of her trademarks but where did it come from? Might it have been a gift or a family heirloom? Were necklaces like hers already fashionable or was Anne trendsetting again?

My thanks for any answers.
Dru

Question from Anne - Mary Boleyn's children

[I think we've touched on this subject a little on the Q&A Blog, but I figured it was a question worth repeating]

Did Mary Boyeln have two children by Henry the V111? Were those children given places in court life?

I have read that Henry did recognize some of his children by the mistresses..but not all. Any information would be appreciated.

Thank you,
Anne Knauer not a student..a 55 yr. old with a strong curiosity about the Tudors.

Question from Asher - Edward VI and arsenic

Has the story about Edward VI being administered arsenic by John Dudley's phsycicians ever been confirmed? I've read it a number of times from respected historians, but in the most recent comprehensive history of the Dudley's, Derek Wilson's "The Uncrowned King's of England," no mention is made of the rumor.

Question from Sara - Thomas Seymour's last words

I was wondering if anyone knows Thomas Seymour's last words or if he made a speech at his execution before he died. Any possible answer you might have would be really helpful. Thanks.

Question from Carolyn - Mary Tudor's ladies in waiting

I was interested in finding out the names of Mary Tudors ladies in waiting as one of my ancestors was reputed to have been one of them. Does anyone know their names or where I might find a list? Thank you very much. Best, Carolyn

Question from Glen - Perkin Warbeck

why did perkin warbeck pose such a threat to henry VII? A level

Question from Sara - Katherine Parr's death date

I've read in some places that Katherine Parr died on September 5, and in others September 7. What is the real date and why are there two?

Question from Caitlin - Book recommendation for Tudor life and times

Hi im in yr 12 and am doing a report on Tudor england life and times. Its a large feild and im trying to cover the most important aspects i can find. My trouble is im finding it hard to get some good resources from the library. Could you point me towards some historians and some of their books? Thank you

Question from Claude - Mid Tudor Crisis texts

I am currently doing a seminar on the mid tudor crisis. as part of this i have to do an essay on a primary source. Any suggestions?

Question from Rachel - Tudor necklaces

I have seen the Kathryn Howard portrait gallery suggesting that Kathryn and Jane Seymour were wearing the same necklace. The necklace in the Mary Tudor/ Charles Brandon portrait looks similar. Is it possibly the same necklace, or was it just a popular style?

Question from Imi - What did we learn from the Tudors

i am 9 years old in yr5 and I am concluding my report on tudor life. what i wan to know is , what do we learn from the tudors and how has this changed or made my life better?

Francis Drake's return to Plymouth

I am trying to find out the date inwhich Sir Francis Drake returned to Plymouth after he fought the Armada. I have look everywhere and have been unable to find this information.
Even a month will do, but possibly which end of the month. I know he returned to Plymouth with a lot of the fleet as they set about refitting their ships for the Drake Norris Expedition of 1589...can anyone help me please.

Question from Renee - Nursery rhymes

I would like to know which of the nursery rhymes we are now singing had their origin during Tudor and Stuart times.

Question from Sara - Thomas Seymour's supporters

I have another question, this time about Thomas Seymour. I know that he attempted to kidnap Edward VI in 1549, but I read in Alison Weir's "The Children of Henry VIII" that he had his supporters with him at the moment he broke into Edward's rooms. Just who were his supporters?

Question from Sara - Catherine Carey's birthdate

I was wondering what information there is on the birthdate of Catherine Carey, Mary Boleyn's daughter. I read a lot of Alison Weir's books, and on the family tree in the back it says she was born in 1529, but when I read Philippa Gregory's book "The Other Boleyn Girl," (which I know is fiction, but it does have some fact in it) she said she was born in 1524, and I have read that in other sources, too. Does anyone know anything helpful about her, like why there are two dates and which is more likely?

Question from Sophia - Henry's wives

why did henry VIII have 6 wives?

Question from Paul - Wattle and daub

Hello,

I'm a school teacher in the UK and we're studying the Tudors at the moment. We're going to have a go at making Tudor Houses and I wondered if anyone had any ideas as to how to go about creating the wattle and daub effect easily?

Many thanks.

Question from John - Tudor rise to power

What event brought the Tudors into power?

[since the submitter didn't include an email address, and this is basic question, I'll just go ahead and answer it in the post]

The Battle of Bosworth Field on August 22, 1485 was the actual *event* that brought Henry VII to the throne.

Off the top of my head, I would suggest Michael Bennett's "The Battle of Bosworth" and "The Making of the Tudor Dynasty" by Griffiths and Thomas if you want to learn more.

Anyone want to add other comments, please chime in!

Question from Claire - Tudor pets

I would like help for my god-daughter (she's 8 yrs old) with what pets did the tudors have, and any information to do with animals in the tudor times (but mainly pets)
Many thanks
Claire

Question from Charlea - Tudor legacy wheel

I need to find out information on the Tudor legacy wheel can you please help me?

Question from Jake - Military ranks

What ranks of the military existed in Tudor England?
13, 7th grade

Question from Beth - Tudor gardens

Why did the tudors have neat gardens?

Question from Nancie - More on Sir Francis Bryan

I am seeking information about the family line of Sir Francis Bryan. I am from his line. Is there a definitive published line? Where may I see the line? Also, is there a connection to Sir Guy de Bryan buried in Tewksbury Abbey? He fought in the Seige of Calais and lived in mid 1300's.

Thank you,
Nancie Cole Sutter

Question from John - Henry VII's deathbed

Is it true that when Henry VII was about to die that he told his son Henry VIII that the most important thing he could do as king was to have a son to provide a male heir to the throne? A Masterpiece Theater production about Henry VIII on PBS show a scene where this happens, but I cannot find any documentation for it, if it really happened

Question from Anna - Henry VIII's deathbed

I read recently somewhere that Henry VIII called out Jane Seymour's name on his deathbed and I was wondering A) was this true and B) who was the source of this news?

Question from Karin - Elizabeth hearing of Anne's execution

What is known about how and when Elizabeth I found out about the fate of her mother?

Question from Tony - Info on Sir William Tyrwhitt

Can anybody tell me 1)who was Sir William Tyrwhitt, 2)what position did he hold in Wolsey's household, and 3)what happened to him after his unsuccessful suit for the hand of Margaret Vernon, widow of Sir Richard Vernon of Haddon Hall, in 1517?

Question from ? - Accuracy of "Mary, Bloody Mary"

Does anyone know the historical accuracy of the book Mary, Bloody Mary. People in the book (Lady Susan,Salisbury, Lady Julia,Charels, Chapuys, Cromwell,and Reginald) real people that were a part of Mary's life?

Question from ? - Links for ancestors at court

Are there any particular websites or links for those who may have had ancestors who were members of courts of royalty?

Question from Kerry - Portrait of Sir Francis Bryan

I am a descendant of Sir Francis Bryan (1490-1550), boy-companion and courtier to Henry VIII. Sir Francis was the man who petitioned the Pope for Henry VIII's divorce from Catherine of Aragon, and he was also a cousin of Anne Boleyn. Bryan was a poet, author, cypherer, diplomat, soldier, and the closest confidante of the King. I am seeking a portrait of Sir Francis Bryan. He was painted by the famous court painter Hans Holbein, but the portrait has never been found. Does anyone have any idea where it may repose? He is distinguished by wearing an eye-patch, one eye having been put out in a jousting match.

Question from Elizabeth - Edwards family

Is there any information on the DNA for the Edwards Family? Richard Edwards is said to be the son of Henry Vlll. How can one do research on this?

Question from Isha - Renaissance-themed Valentine cards

Hello! I was wondering if anyone has information on where I can get Renaissance-themed Valentine cards? I was thinking of cards with maybe old quotes, kings and queens, or basically anything historical related. The Tudor era is of course my favorite period, but any related information is greatly appreciated. Thank you for your help!

Question from Hannah - Tudor New Year

Hi,

I've become increasingly confused about Tudor dating in my reading - some authors (such as Joanna Denny) say that the Tudor year began in March (I think the date is 25th), and she sticks to the Tudor dating in her book, which would mean that (for example) 2 Feb 1525 in Tudor times would be 2 Feb 1526 according to our calender - right?

Yet recently I read David Starkey's book on Henry VIII's six wives, and he asserts that Anne presented Henry with the carving of a maiden on a storm-tossed sea in new year 1526/7 - he then goes on to say that this was on 1st January. Can someone please help me unwind this riddle!

When was the Tudor New Year? If it was in March does this mean Starkey's dating of the letters is wrong?

Sorry if this is a bit technical and involved!

Thanks for any help!

Catching up... new questions coming soon!

Sorry I've gotten behind on posting the more recent submissions, but I'll get them up tonight.