William de Vesci - Sheriff of Northumberland

William fitz Eustace

William de Vesci was a prominent Anglo-Norman Nobleman in northern England during Henry II's reign. He is remembered as a key defender of the north against Scottish invasions and for the Battle of Alnwick in 1174.

William was born around 1125 at Knaresborough Castle in North Yorkshire. He was the son of Eustace fitz John and Beatrix de Vesci, heiress of Ivo de Vesci. He adopted his mother's surname, "de Vesci."

When his father died, William inherited significant estates in Lancashire, Yorkshire, and Northumberland, including Alnwick Castle. By 1166, he held around twenty-six knights' fees.

In 1157, William de Vesci was appointed Sheriff of Northumberland, and in 1166, Sheriff of Lancashire. Both appointments lasted until 1170.

He married Burga de Stuteville, daughter of Robert III de Stuteville. William and Burga had five children: Maud, Eustace, Richard, Warin, and Cecily.

In 1174, William joined other knights, including Bernard de Balliol, Robert III de Stuteville, and Oliden d'Umfraville, under Ranulf de Glanville's command. They attacked an invading Scottish army under William the Lion, which was besieging Alnwick Castle. William the Lion was captured, and the invasion was repelled.

Contemporary sources mention him as one of the key knights in the surprise attack, taking prisoners and sharing the spoils after the victory, addressing him encouragingly: "William de Vesci, fight as you know how!"

William de Vesci continued his family's support of Alnwick Abbey. Toward the end of his life, he took monastic vows and died within the abbey in 1183. He was buried there beside his wife near the Chapter House. His lineage continued through his son Eustace de Vesci.