Nicholas Kemeys facts for kids
Sir Nicholas Kemeys, 1st Baronet (born before 1593 – died May 25, 1648) was an important Welsh landowner and soldier. He lived during a big conflict called the English Civil War in South Wales.
Who Was Sir Nicholas Kemeys?
Nicholas Kemeys came from a very old Welsh family. His family had owned land in Monmouthshire for many centuries. They were an important family in the area.
His Life and Role in the Civil War
Nicholas Kemeys was a Baronet, a special title given by the King. He was also a Member of Parliament (MP) for Monmouthshire from 1628 to 1629. This meant he helped make laws for the country. He also served as High Sheriff of Monmouthshire in 1631 and Sheriff of Glamorganshire in 1638. A Sheriff was like a chief law enforcement officer for a county.
When the English Civil War began, Nicholas Kemeys was a strong supporter of King Charles I of England. People who supported the King were called Cavaliers. He played a very important role in Monmouthshire during the war.
He was put in charge of Cardiff Castle, which was a key fortress. He also worked with another important leader, Sir Trevor Williams.
The Battle at Chepstow Castle
Sir Nicholas Kemeys was known for leading the defense of Chepstow Castle. This was a very important castle. In 1648, the castle was attacked. Sir Nicholas bravely defended it.
Sadly, on May 25, 1648, he was killed during the fighting. He refused to give up even after the castle was taken. Today, there is a special plaque inside Chepstow Castle that remembers him. It was put there by his family in 1935.
Sir Nicholas Kemeys had a son named Sir Charles Kemeys, 2nd Baronet. His son also played an active part in the rest of the war.
