Today marks the anniversary of the Battle of Stirling Bridge - September 11th 1297 According to legend it took the English army three attempts to cross the bridge. The first time they were apparently called back as John de Warenne had overslept. The second time Warenne had received incorrect information that the Scots wanted to negotiate terms. On the third attempt the English soldiers began to cross the bridge properly, signalling the start of the battle. The Vanguard advanced first, led by Hugh de Cressingham. This contained mounted cavalry commanded by Sir Marmaduke de Thweng. Behind the cavalry will have been groups of spearmen and archers on foot (infantry) followed by further units of cavalry and infantry. Not all of these units will have made it across the bridge. Andrew de Moray was mortally injured and died of his wounds. His date of death is unknown, but he is presumed dead by November 1297. William Wallace was knighted and became Guardian of Scotland. He began to issue correspondence to other countries declaring Scotland’s independent status, seeking friendship, and offering trade. One of these letters survives: The Lübeck Letter. This letter is in the name of both Andrew de Moray and William Wallace, suggesting that Moray may still have been alive in October 1297. Another interpretation is that Wallace recognised the valuable contribution of his comrade and wished to continue to honour him. Edward I was not present at the Battle of Stirling Bridge. He was furious at the loss and planned to retaliate. Edward personally led the next invasion of Scotland in 1298. source: www.nationalwallacemonument.com/the-battle-of-stirling-bridge/ #scotland #stirling #scottishhistory #williamwallace #history #scottish #kilt#andythehighlander #highlandertours #outlander #braveheart #stirlingbridge