'The Mortimers of Wigmore' looks in detail at the first three English Mortimers, Roger, Ralph and Hugh (d.1181) and their Norman predecessors. Battle was the middle name of these men. Their violent campaigns in England, Normandy and Wales are closely followed with emphasis on their unique position amongst the Marchers of Wales. Many campaigns were fought by the Mortimers against Welsh princes, English kings and baronial opponents. Hugh Mortimer (d.1181) in fact became so powerful that his lands were totally exempt from royal control after his semi-successful rebellion against King Henry II in 1155.
The foundation and design of Wigmore castle by William fitz Osbern around 1070 is then examined and also the setting up of the associated castellany which later became the Mortimer honour of Wigmore. The castle is explored and explained with many photos taken before the recent English Heritage repair work at the site. Two possible 'siege castles' are also described with reference to the present stately pile and its probable construction dates.
