C.P. Addition: Birthdate of James le Boteler, 4th Earl of Ormond
Douglas Richardson
The authoritative Complete Peerage, 10 (1945): 123-126 (sub Ormond) has
a good account of the life history of James le Boteler, 4th Earl of
Ormond (died 1452). Regarding his birthdate, the following information
is given on page 123:
"[He] was probably born in 1392." [footnote d]
Footnote d: "He is said variously to have been aged 12 and 15 in the
inquisition taken immediately after his father's death in England [in
1405]; he was presumably born in 1390, having an order for livery of
his inheritance in Ireland 8 August 1411, on proof of age, his homage
being respited there. because he was then in England, suing out his
livery, which he obtained 23 May 1412 (O.D., vol. ii, no. 413; Cal.
Close Rolls, 1409-1413, pg. 286.)." END OF QUOTE
So, we have conflicting two statements of James le Boteler's birth, one
being "probably in 1392," and one being "presumably born in 1390," with
the added information that James was stated to be aged 12 or 15 in 1405
(or born c. 1390 or 1393). So, what is the correct date?
The Redaction of Somer's Chronicle provides the following information
regarding his birthdate and birthplace:
"1393. Nativitas Jacobi comitis Ormond 28 maii aput fruglasse."
[Reference: Camden Miscellany 34 (Camden Soc. 5th Ser. 10) (1997):
277].
The above chronicle indicates that James [le Boterler], 4th Earl of
Ormond, was born at "Fruglasse" 28 May 1393. I'm unable to locate the
locality, Fruglasse.
Best always, Douglas Richardson, Salt Lake City, Utah
Website: www.royalancestry.net