Oswestry

The English shire of Oswestry Oswestry in Shropshire was the frontline defence for England during the early le Strange era. It includes;

Knockyn (Knockin) Castle,

Oswestry Castle,

Kennerley Castle,

Whittington Castle

Arrival of the le Stranges

The 3rd Lord of Hunstanton, John le Strange [I] (d. 1178) inherited his Father, Roland le Strange’s Estates in Norfolk about 1122-1135. We know from documentary evidence that John le Strange was active in both Norfolk and Shrophire by 1155, witnessing various grants of their Chief associates, who were the Fitz Alan Family. The Fitz Alans resided nearby at Oswestry and Shrawardine Castles.

In 1158, John also inherited his younger brother, Hamon’s Estates in Shropshire which included Cheswardine, Osbaston Manor House (later fortified and known as Knockin Castle) situated at the very frontline of defence in the Shropshire Marches.

We also know that he held Ness, and Myddle Castles.

Between 1155-1160 large additions had been made to the lands acquired by John le Strange, mostly by subinfeudation from the son of the historical figure, Alan fitz Flaald of Dol whose son was called William fitz Alan (I).

NB: John held land in the barony of Fitz Alan was Myddle Manor, was afterwards castellated ; Ruyton-of-the-eleven-towns; Wykey, now part of Ruyton, but at that time independent; Moreton, Maesbrook, Melverley, Acton-Scott, Abdon, Berrington, Glazeley, Longnor, and Alwett (?)