August 2026 Meeting – Alice de Bryene

12 August 2026

Lady Alice de Bryene

Pip Wright gave a fascinating historical talk which brought the remarkable life of Lady Alice de Bryene vividly to life. He began by introducing us to this formidable 14th-century Suffolk noblewoman, who lived from roughly 1360 to 1435. It was incredible to realize that she survived the turbulence of five different monarchs, the Black Death, the Peasants’ Revolt and Agincourt. Pip Wright explained that after being widowed in 1386, Alice chose never to remarry. This deliberate choice protected her financial autonomy and left her in sole control of her vast estates.

The highlight of the talk was Pip Wright’s exploration of Alice’s surviving Household Account Book from 1412 to 1413. He explained to us through the meticulous daily records kept by her steward detailing everything from guest lists to daily provisions. It was fascinated to learn about the diet of this period in time, which included a wide range of fish, birds and meat and a surprisingly large amount of bread per person.

He showed us images of her memorial brass at All Saints Church in Acton, noting that her small depiction reflects average medieval heights. This interesting talk enabled us to appreciate how Alice’s records provide a rare insight into everyday medieval country life.

Sally Card

Announcements

Saffron Walden Outing

There are still seats available for the outing to Saffron Walden on Friday, 21st August, leaving the Bus Station in Sudbury at 9.30am, arriving back in Sudbury around 4.30pm.
It is a free and easy day with the option of visiting Bridge End Gardens, the church, the Fry Art Gallery, and the Museum or simply enjoy the architecture and atmosphere of the lovely old Essex town. The cost is £18 for the transport. If you would like to join us, telephone 01787 311092 for more information.