Goronwy ab Ednyfed facts for kids

Goronwy ab Ednyfed (born around 1205, died October 17, 1268) was a very important official called a seneschal for Llywelyn ap Gruffudd. Llywelyn was the last native Prince of Wales. Goronwy is famous for starting the Tudor family of Penmynydd, which later included kings and queens of England.

Who Was Goronwy ap Ednyfed?

Goronwy ap Ednyfed was one of the sons of Ednyfed Fychan. His father was also a seneschal, serving Llywelyn the Great, an earlier Prince of Wales. Goronwy's mother, Gwenllian, was the daughter of a powerful Welsh ruler named Rhys ap Gruffydd.

When Llywelyn ap Gruffudd (also known as Llywelyn the Last) became the main leader in Gwynedd, he brought Goronwy and his brothers into his service. By 1258, Llywelyn was calling himself the Prince of Wales. In that same year, Goronwy became Llywelyn's seneschal. A seneschal was like a chief manager or steward of the royal household and lands.

Goronwy's Role as Seneschal

Goronwy served as seneschal for ten years. During this time, he was involved in many important discussions. He talked with the Marcher Lords, who were powerful Norman lords controlling lands along the border between Wales and England. He also negotiated with the Bishop of Bangor and other Welsh princes.

In February 1263, Goronwy led Llywelyn's soldiers far south into Gwent. They went there to fight against the Marcher Lords. Goronwy was known for his wisdom and honesty, as well as his skill in battle.

We know for sure that Goronwy was a witness to important documents for Gwynedd between 1258 and 1268. As seneschal, he led a strong force with other Welsh leaders against the Normans and the English king's forces in March 1263. The last time he is mentioned in official papers was on September 27, 1268. He was helping to settle a dispute between Llywelyn ap Gruffudd and Gilbert de Clare.

Goronwy owned land in different parts of Wales, including Anglesey, Arllechwedd, and Ceredigion.

His Death

Goronwy died on October 17, 1268. This date is known from an old Welsh history book called the Brut y Tywysogion. This book described him as: "a man excellent in arms, generous with gifts, wise in counsel, loyal in deeds, and pleasant in words."

Two Welsh poets, Y Prydydd Bychan and Bleddyn Fardd, wrote poems to remember him after he died. One of these poems mentions the fighting in Gwent. Some people think he might have been hurt in that battle, but there is no clear proof.

The Tudor Family Legacy

Goronwy's most lasting impact was starting the Tudor family of Penmynydd. This family line eventually led to kings and queens of England!

His son, Tudur Hen, gave the family its famous name. Later, another family member, Tudur ap Goronwy, was knighted by King Edward III of England. The name "Tudur" was passed down through generations.

One of Goronwy's descendants was Owain ap Maredudd ap Tudur. He changed his name to Owen Tudor. Owen Tudor was the grandfather of Henry Tudor, who later became King Henry VII of England. King Henry VII founded the famous royal House of Tudor, which ruled England for many years.

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