Registra quorundam abbatum monasterii S. Albani, qui saeculo XVmo floruere

This two-volume work presents records from the abbey of St Albans during the Wars of the Roses, detailing internal politics and significant events.

The work Registra quorundam abbatum monasterii S. Albani, qui saeculo XVmo floruere comprises two volumes published between 1872 and 1873, focusing on the abbey of St Albans during the tumultuous later fifteenth century. This period was marked by the Wars of the Roses, which had a significant impact on the local populace. Volume 1 specifically addresses the years 1451 to 1461, revealing the internal politics of the abbey while also reflecting broader national issues. The text is derived from MS. Arundel Coll. Arm. III and chronicles the first decade of John Whethamstede's second abbacy, providing vital insights into early battles of the Wars of the Roses.

Edited by Henry Thomas Riley, this contribution is part of the 'Chronica monasterii S. Albani' series, which aimed to document the rich history of the abbey. Riley posits that the records were compiled with a distinct political bias, particularly against one of Whethamstede's senior monks who vied for the position of abbot and ultimately succeeded in 1476. The volume is not merely a historical account; it includes an introduction, a comprehensive summary of the content, and English side-notes that accompany the primary Latin text, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Overall, Registra quorundam abbatum monasterii S. Albani, qui saeculo XVmo floruere serves as a crucial resource for understanding the dynamics within the abbey during a pivotal era in English history, providing a unique perspective on the interplay of local and national events during the Wars of the Roses.