Bruisyard Abbey facts for kids
The Abbey of Bruisyard was a special home for a group of nuns called Minoresses, also known as Poor Clares. It was located in a place called Bruisyard in Suffolk, England. This abbey was started between 1364 and 1366. It began with the help of a powerful lady named Maud of Lancaster, Countess of Ulster, and her son-in-law, Lionel of Antwerp, Duke of Clarence.
What Was Bruisyard Abbey?
The story of Bruisyard Abbey actually started a bit earlier. Around 1346, a small group of priests, called a college, was set up at Campsey Priory. These priests had a special job: to pray for someone's soul, which was called a chantry.
In 1354, this group of priests moved to Bruisyard. They started praying in a new chapel dedicated to the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary. Maud of Lancaster made sure they had clear rules to follow.
How Did It Become a Nunnery?
The big change happened after Maud of Lancaster's daughter, Elizabeth de Burgh, 4th Countess of Ulster, passed away in 1363. Her son-in-law, Lionel of Antwerp, helped Maud turn the place into a nunnery. This new nunnery followed the rules of the Order of St Clare.
Maud of Lancaster herself joined the Poor Clares at Bruisyard. She spent her final years there as a nun. Both Maud and her daughter, Maud de Ufford, were buried at the abbey.
When Did the Abbey Close?
Bruisyard Abbey continued as a nunnery for many years. However, it was closed down on February 17, 1539. This happened during a big event in English history called the Dissolution of the Monasteries. During this time, many religious houses across England were closed by the King.
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