Alberbury Priory facts for kids
Alberbury Priory was a special kind of religious house, like a small monastery, built in a place called Alberbury in Shropshire, England. It was started around the year 1230. This priory was one of only three places in England that belonged to a French group of monks called the Grandmontine Order.
What Was Alberbury Priory?
A priory was a home for monks, who were men who dedicated their lives to religious study and prayer. Alberbury Priory was quite small. In 1344, there were only seven monks living there, led by a person called a "prior." They might have also had "lay brothers" who helped with the daily chores and manual work around the priory.
Life and Challenges at the Priory
Life at the priory wasn't always peaceful. In 1359, the prior, who was the leader of the monks, was removed from his position. This happened because of serious accusations about his behavior and how he managed the priory's money. Later, in 1364, another prior had to leave the priory because of similar serious accusations against him.
The Priory's End
Alberbury Priory eventually closed down in 1441. This happened during a long period of fighting between England and France, known as the Hundred Years' War. During this time, King Henry VI took control of many "alien houses" like Alberbury Priory. These were religious houses in England that were connected to French religious orders. The King then gave Alberbury Priory and its lands to All Souls' College, Oxford. This meant the priory's purpose changed, and it became part of the college's resources instead of a home for monks.
