Alice de Bryene (d. 1435)

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Alice de Bryene (d. 1435)

The life of Alice de Bryene of England typifies the lives of many moderately wealthy noble-women of her era. Her history has been preserved by the correspondence and household accounts she left, providing a look into the day-to-day life of a woman. Alice married a petty noble as a young girl and was widowed in 1386. She led an active widowed life, moving to be near her family in Suffolk after her husband's burial. Alice managed her estates carefully, overseeing all aspects of her financial affairs herself. She negotiated good marriages for her two daughters, and was also in correspondence with King Richard II over the marriage plans of two young noblewomen being raised in her home. She was also a busy hostess, planning meals and lodging for her noble visitors, who numbered in the hundreds during the holidays.

Laura York , Anza, California

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