Edward of Middleham, Prince of Wales

Edward of Middleham, Prince of Wales, was born at Middleham Castle and was the only legitimate child of King Richard III of England and his wife Anne Neville. His exact birth date is uncertain, with suggestions ranging from December 1473 to as late as 1476. Raised primarily at Middleham, Edward was known to have had a frail constitution. He was conferred the title of Earl of Salisbury in 1478, a title that ceased with his death.

Upon his father’s ascension to the throne on 26 June 1483, Edward was created Prince of Wales and Earl of Chester during a lavish ceremony in York Minster on 8 September 1483. His sudden death on 9 April 1484 left Richard III without a legitimate heir, leading to speculation and uncertainty regarding the succession. The location of Edward’s burial remains unknown, and his death may have contributed to the resurgence of hostilities against his father.