BattlefieldsAnarchy — Exeter Castle Siege 1136
Medieval

Anarchy — Exeter Castle Siege 1136

1136
England
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Baldwin de Redvers
Forces
Baldwin de Redvers garrison
VS
Victor
Stephen
Forces
Stephen besieging with royal army
Outcome
Castle surrendered after three months when water supply failed; Baldwin exiled
The Battle

History & Significance

Baldwin de Redvers held Exeter against King Stephen in 1136, one of the first rebellions of the Anarchy. Stephen besieged the castle for three months in high summer, cutting off the water supply. The garrison was eventually forced to surrender by thirst. Baldwin was exiled. The siege was costly in time and resources and showed Stephen could not quickly suppress opposition.

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