Lewis Owen (Merioneth MP, died 1692) facts for kids

Lewis Owen (born 1622 – died 22 January 1692) was an important Welsh politician. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is like a part of today's Parliament, in 1659.

Who Was Lewis Owen?

Lewis Owen was born in 1622. His family was from a place called Morben and Melenceth in Merionethshire, Wales. His father was Richard Owen, and his mother was Margaret Owen.

Early Life and Learning

When Lewis Owen was 15 years old, in 1637, he started studying at The Queen's College, Oxford, a famous university. Later, in 1640, he joined the Inner Temple. This was a place in London where people studied to become lawyers.

Lewis Owen and the Civil War

During the English Civil War, Lewis Owen supported the King. People who supported the King were called Royalists. In 1645, he was captured at his home in Peniarth by a soldier named Colonel John Jones. Lewis Owen was then taken as a prisoner to Cardiganshire.

A Leader in Merionethshire

Even though he had been captured, Lewis Owen was still chosen for an important job. In 1647, he became the High Sheriff of Merionethshire. A High Sheriff was a very important official in a county. They were in charge of keeping the peace and making sure laws were followed.

A Member of Parliament

In 1659, Lewis Owen was elected to be a Member of Parliament for Merioneth. This meant he represented his area in the Third Protectorate Parliament. This Parliament was the main law-making group in England at that time.

After the War

After the Civil War ended and the King was back in power (this was called the Restoration), Lewis Owen was recognized for his loyalty. He was nominated to be a Knight of the Royal Oak. This was a special honor for people who had supported the King. At that time, his family's land was worth about £600 a year, which was a lot of money back then!

Lewis Owen of Peniarth passed away in 1692, the year he turned 70 years old.