Battle of Meretun facts for kids

The Battle of Meretun (also known as Merton) was an important fight between the Anglo-Saxons of Wessex and the Vikings in England. It happened on 22 March 871. The West Saxon army was led by King Æthelred and his younger brother, Alfred the Great, who would later become a famous king. The Viking army was part of the Great Heathen Army, a large force that had invaded England.

The exact place where this battle happened is still a mystery. Historians believe it was somewhere in the ancient kingdom of Wessex. This area is now part of modern-day Dorset, Hampshire, or Wiltshire counties in England.

What Happened at the Battle of Meretun?

We learn about the Battle of Meretun from an old book called the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle. This book was written a long time ago and tells us about events in early English history.

The Chronicle says that King Æthelred and his brother Alfred had fought the Vikings at a place called Basing two months earlier. The Vikings won that battle. Then, on 22 March 871, the two brothers fought the Vikings again at Meretun.

The West Saxon army was split into two groups. At first, they managed to push back the Vikings. They were winning for a long time during the day. However, the battle was very fierce, and many people were killed on both sides. In the end, the Vikings took control of the battlefield, meaning they won.

A very important person, Bishop Heahmund of Sherborne, was killed during this battle. Many other important leaders also died. The death of Bishop Heahmund helps us know the exact date of the battle. His special day in the calendar of saints is 22 March, which tells us when he died.

Soon after the battle, a new large Viking army arrived in England. King Æthelred died shortly after Easter, which was not long after the Battle of Meretun. His brother Alfred then became king.

Where Was the Battle of Meretun Fought?

The exact location of the Battle of Meretun is still unknown today. Historians have looked at old maps and records to try and figure it out. There are a few places that have names similar to "Meretun" or "Merton."

One possible location is near an old castle called Merdon Castle. This castle is in a parish called Hursley, close to the city of Winchester. Another possibility is a village called Marten in Wiltshire. There is also another village nearby called Marden, also in Wiltshire, which has a similar name.

Because the old texts don't give a clear location, the true site of this important battle remains a historical puzzle.