Edwin, Earl of Mercia
unknown - 1071
House: Mercia
Titles: Earl of Mercia
Edwin (Old English: eadwine) was the elder brother of Morcar, Earl of Northumbria, and the son of Ælfgār, Earl of Mercia. He succeeded to his father's title and responsibilities upon Ælfgār's death in 1062. Edwin appears as Earl Edwin (Eduin comes) in the Domesday Book.
In 1066, Edwin and his brother Morcar repelled Tostig Godwinson's raid in Mercia, forcing him to flee to Scotland. Later that year, they faced defeat at the Battle of Fulford against King Harald Hardrada of Norway and Tostig. After Harold Godwinson's death at Hastings, Edwin and Morcar supported Edgar the Ætheling but soon submitted to Duke William.
Edwin died in 1071 when he was betrayed by his retinue while attempting to reach Scotland and was killed by the Normans. His lands were given to Alain Le Roux, and the district was renamed Richmondshire.
Notable events
- 1062Succeeded his father Ælfgār as Earl of Mercia.
- 3 October 1065Morcar was elected Earl of Northumbria after Tostig Godwinson was expelled.
- 1066Repelled Tostig Godwinson's raid in Mercia, forcing him to flee to Scotland.
- 20 September 1066Defeated by King Harald Hardrada and Tostig at the Battle of Fulford.
- 25 September 1066Harald Hardrada and Tostig were defeated by Harold Godwinson at Stamford Bridge.
- 14 October 1066Harold Godwinson died at the Battle of Hastings.
- 1066Supported Edgar the Ætheling after Harold's death but submitted to Duke William.
- 1068Attempted a rebellion in Mercia with Morcar but submitted to William.
- 1071Betrayed by his retinue while trying to reach Scotland and killed by the Normans.
- 1071His lands were given to Alain Le Roux and renamed Richmondshire.
Other details
Death: Died in 1071, betrayed by his retinue and killed by the Normans.
Children: 0
Parents: Ælfgār,