BattlefieldsBattle of Maserfield — Oswald Killed in Northumbrian-Mercian War 642
Early Medieval

Battle of Maserfield — Oswald Killed in Northumbrian-Mercian War 642

642
Shropshire, England
Also known as: Maserfield 642 · Death of St Oswald
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Shropshire, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Oswald of Northumbria
Forces
Oswald's Northumbrian army.
VS
Victor
Penda of Mercia
Forces
c. 4,000–10,000 per side; Penda's Mercian force
Outcome
Oswald killed; body dismembered; Northumbrian hegemony temporarily broken
The Battle

History & Significance

King Oswald of Northumbria — who had won his throne at Heavenfield — was killed by Penda of Mercia at Maserfield, probably at Oswestry in Shropshire. Oswald was immediately venerated as a martyr and saint; his dismembered arms were reputed to remain incorrupt. His relics were distributed across Northumbria and became a major cult. The battle ended Northumbrian dominance of northern England and ushered in a period of Mercian supremacy.

Casualties & Losses

Oswald killed; Northumbrian army destroyed

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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