Rhys Fawr ap Maredudd facts for kids

Rhys Fawr ap Maredudd was a brave Welsh nobleman who lived in the late 1400s and early 1500s. He is most famous for his courage during a very important battle called the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485. In this battle, he fought alongside Henry Tudor, who later became King Henry VII of England.

Joining Henry Tudor

In August 1485, Henry Tudor landed in Wales at a place called Milford Haven. He was trying to become the King of England. As he marched through Wales, many Welsh people joined his army.

Rhys Fawr ap Maredudd was one of these important Welsh leaders. He traveled from north Wales to meet Henry. Rhys and his soldiers joined Henry's army before they reached Shrewsbury.

The Battle of Bosworth Field

On August 22, 1485, Rhys and his men fought in the Battle of Bosworth Field. This battle was a major turning point in English history. During the intense fighting, Henry's flag bearer, Sir William Brandon, was killed.

A flag bearer is the person who carries the army's special flag, called a standard. It is a very important job. According to stories from that time, Rhys Fawr quickly picked up the standard. He held it high for everyone to see until the battle was over. This act showed great bravery and helped keep Henry's army together.

Later Life and Family

Rhys Fawr ap Maredudd lived at a place called Plas Iolyn, which is near Ysbyty Ifan in north Wales. You can still see statues of Rhys and his wife, Lowri, in the church at Ysbyty Ifan, Denbighshire.

His son, Robert ap Rhys, became a chaplain, which is a type of priest, for a powerful church leader named Cardinal Wolsey. Rhys's grandson, Ellis Price, later became a Member of Parliament for Merioneth.