Wednesday 29 August 2012

John Holland

John Holland (18 Mar 1395 - 5 Aug 1447) was the second son of John Holland, duke of Exeter and earl of Huntingdon. His father had been implicated in the revolt against Henry IV, was executed for treason in 1400 and all his lands and titles were forfeit. John's elder brother, Richard also died in 1400. As a grandson of John of Gaunt, John Holland junior was Henry IV's nephew and, therefore, Henry V's cousin.




Although only twenty years old, John distinguished himself at the siege of Harfleur and the battle of Agincourt leading a retinue of some 20 men-at.-arms and 60 foot archers. As a result, he was restored in blood, regained the earldom of Huntingdon and was made a Knight of the Garter the next year. He was to go on to become one of the English commanders in the latter part of the HYW, being made Lord High Admiral of England in 1435 and regaining the Dukedom of Exeter in 1439, the same year he was made the King's lieutenant in Aquitaine.


On his death, his son Henry became Duke of Exeter, but two of his natural sons (the 'bastards of Exeter') were to be active members of the Lancastrian cause, but are believed to have fallen at Towton (1461). I think they may well make an appearance in my planned WotR army ;-)

Sunday 26 August 2012

How about now...

Some good guesses, but no correct answers so far:


The heraldry should be a giveaway...

Saturday 25 August 2012

and some more


6 more to join their comrades in the butts:

No correct answers as yet.

So first clue:

His surname was not in England...

Friday 24 August 2012

and more archers...

Red and Blue livery, umm which captain with these archers be fighting under?



more to follow...