Humphrey Kynaston facts for kids

Humphrey Kynaston (died 1534) was an English highwayman known as Wild Humphrey Kynaston. He lived in the Shropshire area. He was the son of a important local official, the High Sheriff of Shropshire. In 1491, he was found guilty of murder. After this, he was declared an outlaw. He then moved into a cave and lived a life similar to the legendary Robin Hood.

Biography of Wild Humphrey

Early Life and Family Background

Humphrey Kynaston was the youngest son of Sir Roger Kynaston (who lived from about 1432 to 1495). His father was the High Sheriff of Shropshire, a very important position. Humphrey's mother was Lady Elizabeth Grey. He grew up in Myddle Castle. This castle was inherited by his father.

Humphrey got his nickname "Wild" because of his adventurous way of life. This often led him into difficulties. He later inherited Myddle Castle from his father. However, he did not take good care of the property.

Life as a Highwayman

On December 20, 1491, Humphrey Kynaston was found guilty of the murder of John Hughes. This happened in a place called Stretton. Because of this, King Henry VII declared him an outlaw. An outlaw was someone who was outside the protection of the law.

After being declared an outlaw, Kynaston moved from Myddle Castle. He went to live in a cave at Nesscliffe Rock. Some stories say he moved because of the criminal charges. Other stories suggest he was outlawed because he owed money.

From 1491 to 1518, Kynaston supposedly lived a life much like the famous fictional character Robin Hood. People said he had a reputation for taking from the rich. He would then give to those who were poor. Because of this, the local people protected him. They also gave food to him and his horse, named 'Beelzebub'.

There is a famous story about Kynaston and his horse. Once, the local sheriff tried to catch Kynaston. The sheriff removed several wooden planks from Montford Bridge. This was to stop Kynaston from crossing the River Severn. But his horse, Beelzebub, was very strong. It managed to jump across the wide gap safely.

It is also said that Kynaston often visited the Old Three Pigeons tavern. This tavern was in Nesscliffe, Shropshire. His original seat is supposedly still there today.

Some accounts suggest that King Henry VII may have pardoned Kynaston in 1493. Another story says that in 1513, Humphrey helped King Henry VIII. He provided 100 men to help the king in France. In return for this help, he supposedly received a royal pardon a few years later.

Later Life and Death

Humphrey Kynaston made a will on May 1, 1534. His will was officially approved on January 26, 1535. We know the year he died, which was 1534. However, how he died and where he died are not fully clear.

Some sources say he lived comfortably in an estate. This estate was near Welshpool until he passed away. Other stories claim he died from an illness inside his cave.

Kynaston's Cave

Today, the cave where Humphrey Kynaston lived is known as Kynaston's Cave. It is located at 52°46′1.78″N 2°54′46.09″W / 52.7671611°N 2.9128028°W / 52.7671611; -2.9128028. The cave has two main rooms. Kynaston lived in one room. He kept his horse, Beelzebub, in the other room.

The cave also had a strong iron door at its entrance. People say this iron door was later used for the Shrewsbury gaol (jail).

There is an engraving inside the cave. It reads H.K. 1564. This engraving is believed to be made by Humphrey. However, he had already died 30 years before 1564. But Humphrey did have a grandson named Humfridus. He was born in 1530. It is possible that this grandson made the inscription.