Note 2.1

 

The knights who invaded England said mass together at the church of Dives-sur-Mer (Calvados) in Normandy, before setting sail with the Conqueror. A plaque in the church apparently lists these men. William de Braose's name appears here and in a similar list at Falaise.

Severe doubt has been cast on these lists, which were compiled from sources available in the 19th Century, particularly because Roger de Montgomery and Roger de Mortimer are included. They are believed not to have been at the Battle of Hastings.

One could therefore speculate that William de Braose was not at the Battle of Hastings. It is possible, for instance, that he was with Roger de Montgomery protecting the borders of Normandy during the Conqueror 's expedition to England. There are no complete records of those who took part in the Conquest which historians consider to be reliable. Therefore William de Braose's presence at the Battle of Hastings, like many others, can only be assumed because his property in England is documented shortly afterwards.


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