Lucy Reynell facts for kids
Lucy Reynell (born Brandon) lived from 1577 to 1652. She was also known as Lady Lucie of Forde. Her father, Robert Brandon, was a special jeweller who made beautiful items for Queen Elizabeth I. Lucy's mother was named Elizabeth.
In the year 1600, Lucy married Sir Richard Reynell. He passed away in 1633. Lucy and Richard lived in a brand-new home called Forde House. This house was located in Wolborough, which is close to Newton Abbot in Devon, England. They had one daughter named Jane.
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Who Was Lucy Reynell?
Lucy Reynell was an important woman from the 1600s in England. Her father was a famous jeweller for the Queen, which meant her family was well-known. Lucy's life story is recorded in a book written by her nephew, Edward Reynell, in 1654. This book is called The Life and Death of the Religious and Virtuous Lady, the Lady Lucie Reynell of Ford. It helps us learn about her life and the good things she did.
Life at Forde House
Lucy and her husband, Sir Richard Reynell, made their home in the grand Forde House. This house was a new and impressive building for its time. Living in such a home meant they were part of the important families in the area. They raised their daughter, Jane, there. Their life at Forde House was likely busy, managing the household and being involved in their community.
Helping Others: The Almshouses
One of the most notable things Lucy Reynell did was to help people in need. In 1640, she built special homes called almshouses in Newton Abbot. These homes were known as the Clergy Widows House. An almshouse is a building that provides housing for poor people. Lucy built these houses specifically for four widows. These were women whose husbands had been "preaching ministers" (like vicars or rectors) and who were left without a home or money after their husbands died. This act of kindness showed her caring nature and desire to support her community.
Lucy Reynell's Legacy
Lucy Reynell passed away on April 18, 1652. Today, you can find a special memorial to her and her husband in St Mary's Church in Wolborough. It's an altar tomb, which is a large stone monument, featuring full-sized statues, called effigies, of both Richard and Lucy Reynell. These statues help people remember them and their contributions.
