BattlefieldsSiege of Shrewsbury Castle 1138
Medieval

Siege of Shrewsbury Castle 1138

1138
Shropshire, England
Also known as: Shrewsbury 1138 · Stephen takes Shrewsbury 1138
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Siege
Location
Shropshire, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
William fitz Alan garrison
Forces
Garrison: William fitz Alan loyalists c.100 men
VS
Victor
King Stephen
Forces
Stephen: royal army
Outcome
Shrewsbury fell; Stephen hanged 93 members of the garrison in a brutal act of exemplary punishment
The Battle

History & Significance

The Siege of Shrewsbury in 1138 and the mass hanging of the garrison was Stephen most brutal act. William fitz Alan escaped but 93 of his men were hanged as traitors. The massacre was intended to deter further resistance but may have had the opposite effect, convincing barons that Stephen would show no mercy and hardening opposition.

Casualties & Losses

93 garrison members hanged by Stephen

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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