We continue Tudor Tuesdays with the knight, and trusted advisor of Henry 7th, Sir Rhys Ap Thomas.
Rhys ap Thomas rose to prominence during the Wars of the Roses, aligning himself with Henry Tudor, who would later become Henry VII of England. Rhys ap Thomas played a key role in Henry Tudor’s victory at the Battle of Bosworth in 1485, which marked the end of the Wars of the Roses and the beginning of the Tudor dynasty in England. As a reward for his loyalty and military prowess, Rhys ap Thomas was knighted by Henry Tudor on the battlefield, and he became a trusted advisor and supporter of the new king.
As a trusted advisor to the king, Rhys ap Thomas played a crucial role in consolidating Henry VII’s power and establishing the Tudor dynasty in England. He was instrumental in putting down several uprisings against Henry VII’s rule, including the rebellions of Lambert Simnel and Perkin Warbeck, who claimed to be legitimate heirs to the throne. Rhys ap Thomas’s military prowess and loyalty to the crown were crucial in maintaining stability in the region and securing Henry VII’s reign.
Connection to Pembrokeshire
Rhys ap Thomas had deep connections to Pembrokeshire, and he held the title of Lord of Carew, which was a prominent estate located in the county. Carew Castle, located on the banks of the Carew River, was the ancestral home of Rhys ap Thomas, and it played a significant role in his life and career. The castle, which dates back to the 12th century, was a strategic stronghold during the Wars of the Roses and served as a base of operations for Rhys ap Thomas during his military campaigns.
He was known for his generosity towards the people of Pembrokeshire and was respected and admired by the local population for his fair and just rule. He was known to be a patron of the arts and a promoter of local culture, as well as supporting the construction of churches, monasteries, and other important structures, leaving a lasting impact on the landscape of the county.
Photos by Britain Express, Graham Watkins & Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
