William de Cicon facts for kids
Sir William de Cicon, also known as Guillaume de Cicon, was an important knight who served King Edward I of England. His name was spelled in many ways in old English records, like Cykun, Cycons, and Sicun. He came from a place called Vanclans in the Jura Mountains of France. William was introduced to King Edward's service by a trusted friend of the King, Otto de Grandson.
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William's Family History
William de Cicon came from a family with a long history. One of his ancestors, Othon de Cicon, was part of the Fourth Crusade in 1204. This crusade was a big military journey that ended up capturing Constantinople. Othon de Cicon went with his uncle, Othon de la Roche. His uncle later became a ruler in Greece and even built a tower on the famous Acropolis. Othon de Cicon himself became the lord of Karystos around 1250. He ruled there until he passed away in 1266. William de Cicon started working for the English king shortly after Karystos was taken back by the Byzantines in 1276.
Serving King Edward I
William de Cicon first appears in English records on November 13, 1276. He arrived in England carrying an important message for King Edward I from Otto de Grandson. He then joined the English army in South Wales in 1277.
William's Role at Castles
William de Cicon was a key figure in managing some of King Edward's castles. He was the Constable of Rhuddlan Castle from February 1282 to May 1284. This time included the important Siege of Rhuddlan. After that, he became the very first Constable of Conwy Castle. He held this position from when the castle was built until his death around 1310 or 1311.
Life at Conwy Castle
Being the Constable of Conwy Castle was a big job. King Edward I gave William de Cicon 190 pounds each year to manage the castle. This money was meant to cover the costs of keeping the castle safe. William had to make sure there were always 30 skilled men in the castle. These men included crossbowmen, a chaplain, an artiller (someone who handles weapons), a carpenter, a mason, and a smith. Others worked as gatekeepers, watchmen, and other castle staff.
In the winter of 1294-1295, William de Cicon bravely defended Conwy Castle alongside King Edward I. They were under siege during a rebellion led by Madog ap Llywelyn. William's service helped the King keep control of the castle during this difficult time.
