Attention: Claimants to the English Throne
A search is on the way for historical heirs to the English throne. English Heritage, an organization devoted to protecting the country’s historical environment, asks in its advertisements: “Can you trace your family tree back to 1066? Might your ancestors have claimed the English throne? Are you of Edgar the Aetheling’s lineage and believe you have a legitimate claim?”
Ads are running in British, U.S., Australian, German and Norwegian newspapers. “Were your ancestors Anglo Saxon or Danish nobles before 1066? Perhaps you can trace your heritage back to Harold, Edward the Confessor or Edgar the Aetherling.”
Edgar Aetheling was named heir apparent by his great-uncle King Edward the Confessor but was not crowned when the King died in 1066 because he was too young. Harold II was crowned instead. William the Conqueror, who crossed from Normandy, then defeated Harold at the Battle of Hastings. Aetheling later surrendered to William.
And so, to mark the opening of the new visitor center at Battle of Hastings Abbey and Battlefield in February, English Heritage are researching what might have happened if Aetheling had been crowned. If you believe your family could have a claim to the English throne, send copies of your supporting documents and the name of your “gateway ancestor” to this address:
Claimants to the English Throne
English Heritage
1 Waterhouse Square
138-142 Holborn
London EC1N 2ST