Edwin (son of Edward the Elder)
-933
House: House of Wessex
Titles: ætheling
Edwin was the younger son of King Edward the Elder and his second wife, Ælfflæd. After his father's death in 924, Edwin's older half-brother Æthelstan was chosen as king by the Mercians, while the West Saxons initially supported Ælfweard, another of Edward's sons. Ælfweard's death soon after left Æthelstan as the primary contender for the throne, although there was resistance and potential support for Edwin.
During Æthelstan's reign, Edwin witnessed a charter at New Minster, Winchester, where he was described as ætheling. This indicates his standing within the royal family, despite the limited contemporary evidence of his life. Later accounts suggest that Edwin's death was linked to a plot against Æthelstan, involving jealous courtiers and a leaky boat.
Edwin died in 933, drowning at sea under unclear circumstances. After his death, Æthelstan continued to rule, having overcome the initial resistance to his kingship.
Notable events
- 924Edward the Elder died, leaving multiple sons including Edwin.
- 924Æthelstan chosen as king by Mercians; West Saxons initially supported Ælfweard.
- 924Ælfweard died 16 days after Edward the Elder, leaving Æthelstan as main contender.
- unknownEdwin witnessed a charter at New Minster, Winchester, as ætheling.
- 933Edwin drowned at sea; circumstances of his death are unclear.
- 939Æthelstan died, marking the end of his reign.
- 944Monks of Saint Bertin granted a monastery at Bath by King Edmund.
- unknownWilliam of Malmesbury and Simeon of Durham rewrote accounts of Edwin's death.
- unknownSir Frank Stenton suggested a possible rebellion against Æthelstan involving Edwin.
- unknownSimeon of Durham claimed Æthelstan ordered Edwin's drowning.
Other details
Death: Died in 933, drowned at sea under unclear circumstances.
Children: 0
Parents: Edward the Elder, Ælfflæd