John de Bonvillars facts for kids
Sir John de Bonvillars was a brave knight from a region called Savoy, which is now part of Switzerland. He lived a long time ago, in the 1200s. Sir John was a close friend and helper to King Edward I of England. He was also related to another important person, Otto de Grandson, who was his brother-in-law. Otto helped Sir John join the English king's service.
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Sir John de Bonvillars: A Knight's Life
Sir John came from a place called Bonvillars in Savoy. This area is now known as the Canton of Vaud in Switzerland. It's very close to a famous castle called Grandson Castle. Being related to Otto de Grandson meant Sir John had good connections.
Working for King Edward I
Sir John was an important member of King Edward I's royal household. This means he was part of the king's trusted team. From 1284 to 1287, he worked as a deputy Welsh Justicier. This was a big job where he helped Otto de Grandson govern parts of Wales for the king.
In 1277, Sir John carried an important letter to Otto de Grandson. At that time, Otto was trying to capture Dolforwyn Castle. Sir John was also in Chester in September of that year. He even went back to Savoy for a visit in 1278. He was seen in Evian in March 1279.
Adventures in Wales
Sir John was with Otto de Grandson in Wales in 1282. Otto was leading soldiers from Montgomery during a time of conflict. In 1283, Sir John was sent to Wales again. By 1284, people called him Otto de Grandson's Knight Companion. This shows how close they were.
Sir John also helped with big building projects. He oversaw the building of Conwy Castle, which is a very famous castle in Wales.
In Charge of Harlech Castle
From 1285, Sir John de Bonvillars became the first Constable of Harlech Castle. This meant he was in charge of the castle and its defenses. He held this important job until he died in 1287.
Sir John likely died by drowning during a battle. This probably happened while he was helping with a siege at Dryslwyn in South Wales. After his death, his wife, Agnes de Bevillard, took over his role at Harlech Castle for a short time. She was probably Otto de Grandson's sister. Later, James of Saint George took over as Constable in 1290.
