BattlefieldsAnarchy — Matilda Escapes Oxford on Ice 1142
Medieval

Anarchy — Matilda Escapes Oxford on Ice 1142

1142
England
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Forces
Not recorded in historical accounts
Forces
Stephen besieging forces
VS
Victor
Not recorded in historical accounts
Forces
Empress Matilda with small escort
Outcome
Matilda escaped to safety; Oxford Castle surrendered to Stephen shortly after
The Battle

History & Significance

After three months besieged in Oxford Castle, Empress Matilda escaped across the frozen Thames in winter, dressed in white to blend with the snow. She reached Abingdon and then Wallingford. The episode became legendary and illustrated the desperation of her position, though the castle fell immediately after.

Questions & Answers

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