John "Wynn" ap Maredudd facts for kids
John "Wynn" ap Maredudd (died 9 July 1559) was an important Welsh politician who served as a Member of Parliament. He lived during a time when Wales was becoming more connected with England, and he played a key role in his local community.
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Who Was John Wynn ap Maredudd?
John Wynn ap Maredudd was the son of Meredydd ap Ieuan ap Robert. His family came from Dolwyddelan in an area then known as Caernarvonshire. He had a very large family, with twenty-six brothers and sisters!
His Family and Connections
John Wynn ap Maredudd was considered the head of his family during his lifetime. Later, a famous relative named Sir John Wynn, 1st Baronet looked back at John Wynn as an important ancestor. John Wynn had several children, including Morys Wynn ap John, Owain Wynn ap John, Griffith Wynn ap John, and Robert Wynn (MP). His brother-in-law was Edward Stanley, who also served as a Member of Parliament for Merioneth.
John Wynn's Public Life
John Wynn ap Maredudd inherited large family lands, known as "estates," from his father. These included areas like Gwydir, Nantconwy, Dolwyddelan, and Llanfrothen. He even rebuilt parts of Gwydir in 1555, making it a stronger and more impressive home.
Serving in Parliament
John Wynn was a Member of Parliament (often called an MP). This meant he was chosen to represent his local area, Caernarvonshire, in the English Parliament. He likely served as an MP in 1542 and then again from 1547 to 1551. Being an MP was a big responsibility, as he helped make laws and decisions for the country.
Other Important Roles
Besides being an MP, John Wynn held other significant positions. He served as the High Sheriff of Caernarvonshire in both 1544 and 1556. A High Sheriff was a very important local official, responsible for keeping law and order and managing elections. He was also a Custos Rotulorum of Merionethshire from 1543 to about 1548. This role meant he was the chief keeper of the county's records and documents.
His Legacy
John Wynn ap Maredudd passed away on July 9, 1559. After his death, his son, Morys Wynn ap John (also known as Maurice Wynn), took over the family's responsibilities and lands. John Wynn ap Maredudd is remembered as a key figure in Welsh history, especially for his contributions to politics and local governance during the 16th century.
