It would perhaps be difficult to overrate the influence of the Grey Friars, particularly in the fourteenth century.
They wore a gray tunic with a white cord at the waist; hence, their English name Grey Friars.
In the Middle Ages, several male religious orders whose mission was to care for the sick were formed, including the Knights Hospitalers, the Gray Friars, and the Alexian Brothers.
The followers of St. Francis of Assisi, the Grey Friars, were noted for preaching among the poor, simplicity of life and gentleness of spirit.
The Grey Friars, of the order of St Frances of Assisi, first came to the town in 1233.
Origin
Middle English: so named because of the colour of the order's habit.