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Ranulf MeshenAnglo-Norman aristocrat, Earl of Chester, Viscount d'Avranches and Viscount de Bayeux.
Date of Birth: 01.01.1070
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- Early Life and Inheritance
- Acquisition of Lands and Titles
- Role in the Welsh Marches
- Military Service
- Family
Early Life and Inheritance
Ranulf le Meschin was an Anglo-Norman aristocrat who inherited extensive lands and titles. He was the son of Ranulf de Bessin, Viscount of Bayeux, and Margaret d'Avranches, daughter of Richard, Viscount d'Avranches.
Acquisition of Lands and Titles
After King William II Rufus subdued Cumberland and other areas in northwest England in 1092, Ranulf acquired vast estates there, including Carlisle and Appleby. He became the largest baron in Cumberland and Westmorland. In 1098, his marriage to the "Countess Lucy" brought him lands and manors in Lindsey.
In 1120, Ranulf inherited the titles of Viscount d'Avranches and Earl of Chester from his cousin Richard d'Avranches, who died in the sinking of the White Ship. These titles granted him authority over the border region known as the Cheshire March and gave him a dominant position in western England.
Role in the Welsh Marches
Despite controlling the Cheshire March, which was vital for controlling North Wales, there is little evidence of Ranulf's active involvement in Welsh affairs. The Welsh king Gruffudd ap Cynan continued to hold the Anglo-Norman barons in check beyond the River Clwyd.
Military Service
Ranulf participated in King Henry I's military campaigns on the continent and led the royal army against rebellious Norman barons in 1124.
Family
Ranulf le Meschin and Lucy had several children:- Ranulf de Gernon (1100-1153), Earl of Chester
- William (d. c. 1130), Lord of Egremont
- Agnes, married Robert de Grandmesnil
- Adeliza de Gernon (1102-1128), married Richard de Clare, 1st Earl of Hertford
