Sir Charles Kemeys, 2nd Baronet facts for kids

Sir Charles Kemeys, 2nd Baronet (born around 1614, died 1658) was an important person from a Welsh family. His family, the Kemeys Baronets, owned a lot of land in a place called Monmouthshire, in Wales.

Who Was Sir Charles Kemeys?

Sir Charles Kemeys was the second person in his family to hold the title of Baronet. A Baronet is a special title given by the King, similar to a knight, but it can be passed down in the family.

His Family and Early Life

Sir Charles's father was named Sir Nicholas Kemeys, 1st Baronet. His father was also a very important person. He was a Member of Parliament (MP) for Monmouth in 1628. An MP helps make laws for the country.

Sir Nicholas was also a "High Sheriff" for Monmouthshire in 1621 and for Glamorgan in 1638. A High Sheriff was like a chief law enforcement officer for a county.

King Charles I gave Sir Nicholas the title of Baronet in 1642. This made him the first Baronet in the Kemeys family.

A Time of War

Sadly, Sir Nicholas died during a big conflict called the English Civil War. This war was fought between the King's supporters and the Parliament's supporters. Sir Nicholas died on May 25, 1648, while he was defending Chepstow Castle. He was fighting against the Parliament's soldiers, who were sometimes called "Roundheads."

Sir Charles's Education and Role

Sir Charles Kemeys went to college at Jesus College, Oxford. He also studied law at a place called Gray's Inn. In 1643, he was made a knight.

After his father died, Sir Charles became the 2nd Baronet. He also took on important roles, like being the High Sheriff of Glamorgan in 1644.

Fighting in the Civil War

Just like his father, Sir Charles fought in the English Civil War. He supported the King's side, and these supporters were often called "Cavaliers."

In 1646, Sir Charles helped attack the city of Cardiff. Later, he helped defend Pembroke Castle during the war.

When Pembroke Castle had to give up, Sir Charles faced serious consequences. He was ordered to pay a large fine of £3,500. This was a huge amount of money back then. He was also sent away from the country for two years. This is called being "exiled."

Later Life and Legacy

Sir Charles Kemeys died in 1658. His son, Sir Charles Kemeys, 3rd Baronet, took over the Baronet title after him.