de Soulis of Soulistoun

Soles was originally spelt 'Solys', which was also an alternate spelling of the name "Soulis" (which was also an alternate spelling of Soules). The Solys/Soules are thought to be descendants of a nobleman from Subligny, Normandy who accompanied William the Conquerer, who also lived in Subligny. Up until the battle they had resided in Subligny at Soulles in Manche, Normandy where their surname had originally been derived.

When the Battle of Hastings in 1066 commenced, their men, known as the 'Men of Sole', were described as "conspicuous" fighters who "striked at close quarters, holding their shields over their heads so as to receive the blows of the hatchet." 

In recognition of their assistance in the battle, William the Conquerer granted the Solys/Soulis/Soules a family seat in Derbyshire and the barony of Soulistoun in Scotland (what is now present day Saltoun). Soulistoun was named after the Soulis (possibly named after Randulph de Soulis) whose descendants would include those that would settle in Nonington, Kent. The power of the Soulis was widespread and extended over the south and west marches where they controlled Liddesdale, and in Roxburghsire they also had five wealthy baronies.  

Around the same time an event known as the "The fief of Soules" would be held but was granted to the chapter of Bayeux, which brings us to 1080 where the Manor of Solys is first mentioned as part of the possessions of the Bishop of Bayeux, Odo (died: 1097), the half-brother of William the Conquerer. In 1082 he was disgraced and imprisoned. In 1086 it is recorded in the Domesday book that Odo fell out with William, leading to the stripping of his lands and titles. 

The manor is then given to the Soulis / Solys of Soulistoun who at the time were most powerful in Scotland. The woods surrounding the manor are known also as 'Soles Woods', and thus began the lineage of their descendents. 

In 1204, the Fief of Soulles was seized by Philippe Auguste with Ranulf de Soulles having taken the side of Jean sans Terre. 

English Monarchs: John

Sources:

1. Soulles Commune [source: Wikipedia]

2. Soulles River [source: Wikipedia]

3. de Soules [source: Wikipedia]

4. Odo of Bayeux [source: Wikipedia]

5. "The Battle Abbey Roll. Vol. III" prepared by Michael A. Linton

6. "The Manor of Solys, now Soles Court Farm" [source: nonington.org.uk]

7. Solys Family History [source: House of Names]

8. "The Manor of Soles, now Soles Court Farm" by George Solly [source: The Sole Society]