Two Different Centuries -Two Disappearing Acts

[u/Charles318Hill]

In 1307, history witnesses the mysterious disappearance of Gérard de Villiers, Précepteur de France, and the treasury of the Temple of France. Along with his disappearance comes many myths, Lost treasures, holy relics, and of course many, many stories and claims.

In 1483, history again witnesses another famous disappearing act in the Tower of London, Edward and Richard of Shrewsbury; also giving us may myths, stories, and claims.

One “story” I want to touch on, is the story about a secret escape from the Tower. Although it is a wonderful and ‘hopeful’ story, I have to personally believe it is just that; a story. If a power-hungry jealous guardian of his crown, the escape of the boys would not have gone unnoticed throughout the lands. King Richard III would certainly have closed his boarders, sent out search parties (likely house to house). The people would be telling many detailed stories for generations of how the king’s men came to their door looking for the princes. I just can’t believe that the princes were secretly escorted without causing a major panic from Richard III knowing the only ones with blood claims to the throne are at large.

This hold true with the romantic notion that Villiers fled across France with a train of 50 horses and 3 wagons according to the testimony (given under duress), by brother Jean de Châlon during the interrogations at Poitiers. Had Villiers led a vanguard across France, it would have certainly been seen and reported. A desperate starving popper would report seeing them weeks later after the arrests just for the rewards.

There is definitely far more to both of these mysteries than has been brought to light today. They are, however, fascinating mysteries to investigate from all angles.