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Explore the Histories of Northamptonshire Interactive Timeline

Medieval to Tudor

1066 to 1603 CE

As England's rulers change, stone castles and churches are built, markets and settlements flourish, and Northamptonshire plays a key role in national power struggles.

View summary
Medieval 1450

Brigstock Jewel

Mid-15th century jewelled brooch or hat pin found in Brigstock, within the medieval Rockingham Forest which covered large areas of Northamptonshire.

Gold and precious stone jewelled brooch or hat pin dating to mid-15th century © Victoria and Albert Museum
Medieval 1460

Battle of Northampton Cannonball

This lead cannonball is proof of the earliest use of cannons on a battlefield in England - the Battle of Northampton 1460.

Medieval lead cannonball fired during the Battle of Northampton in 1460 © NMAG
Medieval 1250-1600

Potterspury Ware Jug

Potterspury ware jug found in the remains of a kiln excavated in the village of Potterspury.

Large pottery jug made in village of Potterspury, Northamptonshire © NMAG
1500

Painting of Langar

A commissioned painting of Langar (Free Community Kitchen) by SCCYC SMN by Artistic Seva, Slough, demonstrating the value of Community & Equality. The painting showing communities from all faiths and castes cooking together, eating side by side on the floor and washing up together. Chosen as part of the extended exhibtion Beyond the 100 in 2025/26.

Langar Painting
1508

Tomb of young girl, Elizabeth Follet, in Collyweston parish church

This tomb is believed to be that of a young girl, Elizabeth Follett, thought to be the daughter of John Follett  a stonemason in the employ of Lady Margaret Beaufort at her Palace in Collyweston. Elizabeth Follett was buried in February 1508.

brass of grave in Collyeston church
Tudor 1518/9

Welford Cup

A silver cup, known as a Tudor grace cup, used as a domestic but ceremonial drinking cup passed around the table after prayers.

Tudor silver cup made in 1518/19. © The Trustees of the British Museum
1550

Sulgrave Manor original Tudor key

Sulgrave Manor original key unlocks the shared history between Northamptonshire and the USA.

Original Tudor key to Sulgrave Manor
Tudor 1581

Sir Christopher Hatton

Oil on wood panel painting of Sir Christopher Hatton, courtier to Queen Elizabeth I.

Double-sided oil painting of Sir Christopher Hatton, builder of Holdenby House in late 16th century. © NMAG