Adelize de Meschines of Chester

     Adelize de was born circa 1100 in England. Adelize de married Richard de Clare 1st Earl of Hertford, son of Gilbert fitz Richard de Clare and Adelize de Creil de Clermont, circa 1114. One of the land holdings granted to her husband, was the Lordship of Ceredigion in Wales where they at times maintained their residence. A revolt against Norman rule had begun in south Wales, and on 1 January 1136 the Welsh won a victory over the local Norman forces. Her husband was not at Ceredigion with her at this time; however, upon returning to the borders of Wales in April of that year, Richard ignored warnings of the danger and pressed on towards their home with only a small force. He was ambushed and killed by the men of Gwent. The town of Ceredigion was taken and burnt, and Adelize, was forced to take refuge in the castle, which was soon surrounded by the hostile Welsh. Robert fitz Martin successfully defended the castle with the meager forces at his disposal until Miles of Gloucester was able to lead an expedition to Ceredigion, rescued the garrison and took Adelize to safety in England.