Rhys ap Robert facts for kids

Rhys ap Robert (died 1377) was an important Welsh nobleman from a long time ago. He was part of a very old family, the same family that would later become the Tudor dynasty in England. Rhys held many important jobs in the government of north Wales.

Who Was Rhys ap Robert?

Rhys ap Robert was a powerful figure in 14th-century Wales. He was a descendant of Ednyfed Fychan, a famous Welsh leader who lived much earlier. Being from such a respected family helped Rhys get important positions.

Rhys's Important Jobs

Rhys worked in several key roles in north Wales. These jobs helped him manage different parts of the region.

• Castle Leader: By 1349, he was a co-Constable of Flint Castle. This meant he helped manage and protect this important castle.
• Financial Officer: From 1347 to 1350, he was an escheator for Caernarfonshire. This job involved managing lands and properties that belonged to the king.
• Local Administrator: In 1360–61, Rhys was a rhaglaw (which means a bailiff or local officer) in a district called Dinmael. He helped keep order and manage local affairs there.

Where Rhys Lived

Rhys ap Robert lived at a place called Kinmel, which is near the town of Abergele. He was also a supporter of the poet Iolo Goch, which means he helped and encouraged the poet's work.

Challenges and Support

Rhys's time in public service was not always smooth. He faced some difficulties and complaints.

Facing Challenges

In 1354, Rhys had problems because people thought he was not being fair in his duties. Later, in 1358, people from a place called Englefield complained to the Black Prince (a very important English prince) about Rhys's strict rules.

Supporting Owain Lawgoch

One of Rhys's most significant actions was supporting Owain Lawgoch. Owain was a Welsh leader who worked as a soldier for France. He also claimed to be the rightful Prince of Wales.

• Attempts to Invade: Owain Lawgoch tried to invade Wales with help from France in 1369 and again in 1372. He wanted to take control from the English.
• Family Involvement: Rhys's son, Ieuan Wyn, also served as a soldier in France. In 1372, it was said that Rhys had given a lot of money (over 500 marks) to Owain and Ieuan to help them fight against the English.
• Later Career: Even with these claims, Rhys's career continued. In 1374, he was appointed a chief officer in the area of Denbigh.

Rhys ap Robert passed away in 1377.