ouse Bonivant, is based on the household of Richard
Bonivant who owned
(near )
in the early part of the 15th century.
Upon his death the Castle passed to his son Nicholas. Both Richard and Nicholas were successful mercers (cloth merchants) in London.
This enabled them to maintain the castle and some 40 acres of land attached to it. However, as lords of the manor they were obliged
to provide half a knight’s fee, which was men to fight for the Bishop of Rochester. The Bishop at this time,
, was a powerful and wealthy man and it is under his arms and colours that the household fights.
As a household the fight as a mixed unit combining both 'Men at Arms' and 'Bill Men' whilst providing covering fire from a small contingent of 'Longbow
Men' and
.
We have also hired a few mercenaries from the continent and recruited Gunners into our ranks.
Away from the
fighting we have members of the household who tend the camp, cook,
make ring-mail, leather work, wood work, candles and look after
the children. We also take an active part in supporting the wider membership of , of which
we are one of a number of households.
