Queen Elizabeth Woodville gathers up her children and heads for sanctuary at Westminster Abbey

Queen Elizabeth Woodville gathers up her children and heads for sanctuary at Westminster Abbey

On the 9th April 1483, Edward IV died unexpectedly aged 41, possibly of pneumonia or typhoid.
Edward’s death had left his widow Queen Elizabeth vulnerable.

The queen was unpopular at court, and with Richard as Protector, her fears grew as many members of her family and close supporters were exEcuted.

Elizabeth was taking no chances, – on the night, early hours of 29th /30th April, Elizabeth gathered up her children and servants, and headed for sanctuary at Westminster Abbey.

She and her household brought so many possessions with them, that her servants had to break down a section of the Abbey walls to get everything inside.

As long as Elizabeth Woodville and her children were together in sanctuary, they were relatively safe.

Or so she thought…..

🥀 Cheyneygates Room at Westminster Abbey as it looks today, where once Elizabeth Woodville and her family sheltered from their enemies.