The Knights Templar Yorkshire, North Riding were a medieval military order that was established in the 12th century to protect pilgrims travelling to the Holy Land. The Knights Templar Yorkshire, North Riding were an important presence in the area for nearly 200 years and their influence can still be seen today. The Order was highly respected and well-funded, and its members were given land grants and other privileges as a reward for their service. They built churches, castles, and other structures throughout the region, many of which still stand today. Their legacy also lives on in the local place names they gave to certain areas, such as Templars Cross near Thirsk. The history of the Knights Templar in Yorkshire dates back to the 12th century. After the Crusades, many knights returned from the Holy Land and established a base in Yorkshire. These knights became known as the Knights Templar and they built a number of grand castles and manors throughout the region. The earliest known references to these Templars is found in the records of Archbishop Walter Gray of York, who granted them several properties in Yorkshire between 1185 and 1191.
The Temple Chevin near Otley is believed to be one of their earliest fortifications in Yorkshire, while Temple Newsam near Leeds is thought to have been another key stronghold. In 1226, King Henry III granted a charter for a preceptory at Temple Hirst, which later became known as Temple Hirst Priory. This was followed by a grant for another preceptory at East Hardwick in 1235.
The heyday of the Knights Templar in Yorkshire came during the late 13th and early 14th centuries when they held land across large parts of northern England, including properties in Selby, Wakefield, Pontefract, Knaresborough and Beverley. The order eventually fell into decline during the mid-14th century with many properties being confiscated by Edward II during his dissolution of their order in 1312. The remaining possessions were later transferred to other military orders such as the Knights Hospitaller and Knights of St John.
How the North Riding Fits into Yorkshire
The North Riding of Yorkshire is one of the three historic subdivisions of the English county of Yorkshire. Along with the East Riding and West Riding, it makes up the traditional ceremonial and administrative county of Yorkshire. The North Riding’s area is slightly larger than that of the East and West Ridings combined, and stretches from Teesdale in the north to Filey in the south. It also includes some offshore islands such as Farne Islands and Flamborough Head.
The North Riding is closely associated with the traditional county boundaries of Yorkshire, which have been recognised since at least 1274 when they were first codified by King Edward I. Although there have been some changes over the centuries, these boundaries remain largely unchanged today. As such, many people still consider the North Riding to be part of Yorkshire as a whole – not just geographically but culturally too.
1109: Foundation of the Knights Templar in Yorkshire
The story of the Knights Templar in Yorkshire begins in 1109 when the Order was founded by Hugh de Payens and seven other French noblemen. The Order was established to protect Christian pilgrims travelling to the Holy Land and to fight against the spread of Islamic forces. During this time, Yorkshire was a key area for religious and military activity, as it was at the centre of a network of monasteries, castles and fortified towns.
1130: Establishment of a Preceptory in Yorkshire
In 1130, a Preceptory was established by Hugh de Payens at Temple Newsam near Leeds. This Preceptory would become an important base for the Templars in the North of England, and it is believed that much of their activity during this period centred around this site. During its time here, it is thought that the Preceptory became an important training ground for knights and squires from across Europe who were seeking to join the Order.
12th Century: Expansion of Templar Holdings
Throughout the 12th century, the Templars continued to expand their holdings across Yorkshire. In addition to their base at Temple Newsam they established preceptories at York, Doncaster, Ripon and Scarborough, amongst others. These sites served as both administrative centres for overseeing Templar operations throughout Yorkshire and as bases for recruiting new members.
1306-1312: Suppression of the Knights Templar
In 1306 King Philip IV of France began his move to suppress the Knights Templar on charges ranging from heresy to corruption and financial mismanagement. This ultimately led to their dissolution by Pope Clement V in 1312. During this period many Templars were arrested or forced into exile throughout Europe while others were executed or had their property confiscated by royal decree. In England, however, many Templars escaped these punishments due to their powerful connections with local nobility.
14th Century: Decline of Templars in Yorkshire
Following their suppression in 1306-1312, there is little evidence that suggests any significant presence or activity by Templars in Yorkshire during this time. However there are some references to individual knights being active throughout England during this period which may indicate a small but persistent presence within certain areas such as Yorkshire.
Selby Abbey
Selby Abbey is one of the most significant locations for the Knights Templar in Yorkshire. This historic site was founded in 1069 by Benedictine monks and is now a Grade I listed building. The abbey was an important centre for the Knights Templar, with many of their relics and artifacts being stored here. The abbey also served as a place of refuge during times of conflict, providing shelter to many who were persecuted by the Church. Selby Abbey also holds several important ceremonies each year, such as the Blessing of the Sword ceremony which takes place on Easter Sunday.
Temple Hirst
Temple Hirst is another significant location for the Knights Templar in Yorkshire. This small village is home to an ancient priory that was founded by a group of knights in 1135. The priory served as a base for their operations and was used to store important documents and artifacts related to the order. Temple Hirst Priory remains largely intact, although some parts have been restored or rebuilt over the centuries. It is now open to visitors who can explore its history and learn more about the legacy of the Knights Templar in Yorkshire.
Ribston Hall
Ribston Hall is another significant location associated with the Knights Templar in Yorkshire. This Grade I listed country house dates back to 1376 and was once home to Sir Thomas de Roos, a prominent member of the order. The hall has an impressive collection of artifacts and documents related to the Templars, including a fragment of their original charter from 1156 which still hangs on its walls today. Ribston Hall also hosts various events throughout the year including music festivals, art exhibitions and educational talks about the history of this influential order.
William de Aldebourne
William de Aldebourne was a prominent member of the Knights Templar in Yorkshire. He was born in the 12th century and served as a commander of the order in the region. He was also responsible for establishing many of the fortifications that were built to protect Yorkshire from foreign invasion. William de Aldebourne was instrumental in organizing local defense forces and recruiting new members into the order. In addition, he helped to keep the peace between rival factions and promote trade and commerce within Yorkshire. William de Aldebourne died in 1260, but his legacy continues today as one of the most important figures associated with the Knights Templar in Yorkshire.
Robert de Stuteville
Robert de Stuteville was another prominent figure associated with the Knights Templar in Yorkshire during the Middle Ages. He served as a commander of the order from 1250 to 1260, when he died at age 54. During his tenure, Robert de Stuteville was responsible for building fortifications to protect Yorkshire from foreign invasions, as well as leading military campaigns against rival factions. In addition, Robert de Stuteville played an important role in promoting trade and commerce within Yorkshire by helping to build bridges between local merchants and foreign traders.
Walter Espec
Walter Espec is one of the most famous figures associated with the Knights Templar in Yorkshire. He was born around 1160 and served as a commander of the order for over forty years. During his tenure, Walter Espec helped to expand and strengthen defence forces across Yorkshire, as well as leading military campaigns against rival factions. In addition, Walter Espec is credited with helping to promote trade and commerce within Yorkshire by negotiating deals between local merchants and foreign traders. Walter Espec died at age 63 in 1223 but his legacy continues today as one of the most influential figures associated with the Knights Templar in Yorkshire.
Legendary Tales and Stories about the Knights Templar in Yorkshire
The Knights Templar were a powerful and influential order of warrior monks during the Middle Ages. They had a presence in many parts of Europe, including Yorkshire, England. Throughout the centuries, stories have been told of their heroic deeds and legendary exploits. In Yorkshire, there are numerous tales about the Knights Templar that still fascinate the local population to this day.
One of the most famous legends is that of Sir Robert de Bois, who was said to have saved the town of York from certain destruction at the hands of invaders. According to the story, Sir Robert led a band of brave knights on a daring mission that ultimately resulted in victory over their enemies. It is also said that he was rewarded with great wealth for his bravery by King John.
Another popular tale is that of Sir Richard de Clare, who was said to have led an army against a Scottish invasion force in 1298. This battle became known as ‘The Battle of Stirling Bridge’ and it is said that Sir Richard’s courage and leadership were key factors in achieving victory. He was awarded with land for his efforts and became known as ‘The Lord of Clare’ as a result.
These are just two examples from many tales about the Knights Templar in Yorkshire which have been passed down through generations. The stories show us how these knights were revered for their strength, courage and loyalty, qualities which are still admired today!
It is also believed that there were several secret locations across Yorkshire where Knights Templar would congregate in secrecy. These locations are thought to be connected with various rituals or ceremonies performed by the knights but unfortunately very little information has survived about these sites or what took place there.
Therefore, it is also rumored that some members of the order buried treasures around Yorkshire before they left England in 1312 following their disbandment by Pope Clement V due to accusations leveled against them by King Philip IV of France. Many people believe that these buried treasures remain undiscovered to this day!
Regardless if these tales are true or not, they all serve as reminders of an important part of Yorkshire’s history – one which should never be forgotten!
Artifacts from the Knights Templar Found in North Riding, Yorkshire
A remarkable discovery was recently made in North Riding, Yorkshire – an array of artifacts dating back to the Knights Templar. The artifacts, which include coins and jewelry found in a farmer’s field, were discovered by a local metal detector enthusiast. They are believed to be more than 800 years old and are thought to have belonged to members of the Knights Templar who lived and worked in the area during the Middle Ages.
The discovery is an exciting one for historians and archaeologists alike as it provides new insight into the lives of these medieval warriors. The coins and jewelry provide evidence of their wealth and status as well as their travels around Europe. The coins are believed to have been minted in France or Germany during the 12th or 13th centuries, while some of the jewelry appears to have been crafted in Italy.
The find is also significant because it sheds light on a period of English history that is not well documented. Although there is some information about the Knights Templar available from other sources, this find adds much-needed detail about their presence in England. It also serves as a reminder that they were far more than just soldiers – they were merchants, craftsmen, bankers and diplomats who played an important role in medieval society.
The artifacts will now be studied further by experts before being put on display for public viewing. It is hoped that this discovery will help bring attention to this long-forgotten period of English history and provide valuable information about how these medieval warriors lived and operated in England.
The Dissolution of the Knights Templar in Yorkshire, North Riding
The Knights Templar was a military order of monks founded during the Middle Ages, with a presence in Yorkshire, North Riding. The Templars were renowned for their great wealth and powerful influence throughout Europe. However, in the early 1300s, King Philip IV of France accused the Templars of heresy and launched a campaign to dissolve the order. The dissolution of the Templars was ordered by Pope Clement V in 1312.
In Yorkshire, North Riding, the dissolution began with a series of arrests and trials. Many Templars were arrested and interrogated by government officials. Those who confessed to heresy were burned at the stake or banished from England. Those who denied any wrongdoing were allowed to remain free, although their property and possessions were confiscated by the Crown.
The dissolution of the Templars had far-reaching effects in Yorkshire, North Riding. The order’s lands and property were seized by the Crown and redistributed to English noblemen and churchmen. This redistribution of wealth had a significant impact on local landowners and communities throughout Yorkshire, North Riding. Many Templars who had escaped arrest fled to Scotland or other parts of Europe where they continued to practice their faith in secret.
The dissolution of the Knights Templar was a major event that had long-lasting effects on Yorkshire, North Riding. It resulted in a redistribution of wealth that left many communities impoverished while simultaneously enriching others. The legacy of this event is still felt today as much of Yorkshire’s landscape is still shaped by its Templar past.
Last Thoughts
The Knights Templar Yorkshire, North Riding were a major force in the Middle Ages. They were instrumental in defending and protecting the people of Yorkshire from the threats of invasion and plunder from neighbouring countries. They were also influential in developing a strong economy and providing a safe haven for trade and commerce. Their legacy continues to this day with many of their architectural sites still standing as reminders of their great contribution to the region’s history.
Ultimately, the Knights Templar Yorkshire, North Riding played an important role in the development of society during this period. They provided protection for those living in Yorkshire and helped to develop a strong economy that benefited all members of society. The legacy that they left behind is still seen today and continues to be celebrated as an important part of British history.
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