King William II
Referred to as William Rufus (probably because of his red hair or ruddy complexion - Rufus means red in Latin)
In 1091 bad weather damaged London Bridge, as part of its reconstruction William II introduced a specific tax to ensure continued maintenance of the Bridge and throughout the centuries sufficient proceeds have guaranteed its upkeep; the fund continues to this very day.
In 1092 Carlisle was captured from Scotland and in 1093 William initiated the construction of Carlisle Castle, which is, at the date of writing, 927 years old and is currently open to the public. Carlisle is in the English county of Cumbria.
winchester cathedral
Winchester Cathedral was completed during William II’s reign (1093). Also during 1093 work began on Durham Cathedral.
OXFORD TEACHING
In 1096, teaching began in Oxford - the area was later to become famous for its university.
FAVOURITE SON
William was regarded as William the Conqueror’s favourite son, and his father left England to him rather than his first son, Robert Curthose.
William was accidentally hit by an arrow which caused his death, but the matter has been debated as to whether it was an accident or murder, however the chance of an accident occurring whilst hunting was considered common at that time.
There is a stone referred to as the “Rufus Stone” in the village of Minstead, New Forest, which is allegedly the spot where William II was killed.
William gave land to monks in Bermondsey, London, to build an abbey, although small, traces of Bermondsey Abbey still exist, the area presently has a block of flats called Rufus House, Abbey Street – nearest tube station is London Bridge.
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