Who Was King Athelstan?

King Athelstan (894–939) was the first ruler to unite all of England. Grandson of Alfred the Great and son of Edward the Elder, he was raised in Mercia by his aunt Æthelflæd after his mother’s death. Known for his striking presence and strong leadership, he combined education, diplomacy, and military skill to forge a powerful, united kingdom.

Athelstan’s reign saw great victories, most famously at Brunanburh in 937, where he defeated a coalition of Scottish and Norse forces. He brought Cornwall under control, secured tribute from Welsh kings, and commanded respect across the British Isles and Europe. His strategic marriages for his sisters strengthened ties with continental rulers.

A patron of learning and the Church, Athelstan founded churches, promoted monastic life, and oversaw a flourishing court culture. His laws—more numerous than any other 10th-century ruler’s—reinforced justice and order, while his charity ensured the poor were cared for through annual contributions from royal estates.

Though often overlooked in history, Athelstan centralised power, reformed law, strengthened religion, and put England firmly on the European stage. He died on 27 October 939 in Gloucester and is believed to be buried at or near Malmesbury Abbey. His legacy is that of a warrior, statesman, and visionary—the first true King of all the English.

An Evening with Dr Charles Insley
In August 2025, the Province of Mercia organised a fascinating talk by Dr Charles Insley. More than 70 members and guests gathered at Chesterfield Masonic Hall for an inspiring evening devoted to the life and times of King Athelstan.

👉 Click here to watch a recording of the talk.

At the Grand Court meeting of the Masonic Order of Athelstan, held in Leicester on Saturday, 25th October 2025, members proudly marked the 1100th anniversary of the coronation of King Æthelstan as King of Mercia and Wessex, which took place in September 925.

During this memorable occasion, and prior to installing his successor, RW Bro Charles Aspinell, the Grand Master, MW Bro Paul W. Johnston, together with Worshipful Brother Graham Smith, Provincial Grand Secretary of the Province of Mercia, unveiled a remarkable commemorative stone — a lasting tribute that will be permanently displayed at Leicester Masonic Hall within the Provincial Grand Court of Mercia.

The historic stone, generously donated by WBro Graham Smith and commissioned with funds contributed by the individual Courts of Mercia, carries a story of its own. Over 200 years old, it was quarried from the same source as the stone used to construct the Houses of Parliament. The stonemason carefully preserved original markings made by craftsmen more than two centuries ago, ensuring their handiwork remains visible for generations to come.

This proud moment for the Province of Mercia beautifully encapsulated the Order’s enduring spirit — honouring the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring the future.