Longtown Castle, 1048 to 1241

Longtown Castle

Longtown Castle deals with the early history of the lordship from Roman days until the mid-thirteenth century. In the early years this fortress was otherwise known as Ewias Lacy. Also chronicled is the possible foundation of the castle as a fortress by Earl Harold (k.1066) and the Lacy dispute with the great Payn Fitz John and his descendants during the anarchy of King Stephen's reign (1135-54). The story ends with the death of Walter Lacy in poverty during February 1241.

Pont Hendre

Pont Hendre, probably the original 'main' castle of Ewias Lacy barony, is examined first with the aid of pictures and a plan. The next exploration is of Longtown Castle with its great early 13th century round tower, two older walled baileys and earlier possibly Saxon earthworks. An examination of the penetration of the Welsh cantref of Ewias is undertaken and the relationship between Longtown and the other castles of the district is discussed.

British Castles Series

The first of the British Castles Series to be home-published was Clun Castle in 1994. This was a successful comprehensive history based solely on original Anglo-Welsh manuscripts. Since this 32 more followed making up the present collection in the British Castles Series. Professionals and individuals find them useful for their research and interest purposes in medieval history, archaeology, genealogy, and family and local history.

By Paul Martin Remfry

Publisher: SCS Publishing, 1997
ISBN: 1899376291

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