Caradog ap Ednefydd - The Welsh Tribesman

The life of a Welsh Tribesman

During the fourteenth century many people of English and Norman descent came and made their homes in the land of Wales, a land that had gradually fallen to foreign rule over the previous 200 years.

However, the majority of the population still consisted of people of Welsh tribal stock. They worked with, married and often fought for the interlopers, but from the conquests of King Edward I to the rebellion of Owain Glyndwr their relationship rarely became one of trust.

For the Welsh whose traditions revolved around lineage and the land, the new comers had no Hiraeth.

Caradog's story...

Caradog’s family come from Cwmgwynlais, on the southern border of the Cantref of Sengenydd. Caradog's grandfather fought for Llewellyn ap Gruffydd in the battle of Builth and his great great grandfather fought for, and served under, Ivor ap Meurig, Prince of Senghenydd.

Caradog’s father fought against the Sais in the Llwellyn Bren uprising of 1316 and was captured. After the rebellion failed, he and his family were brought to Cosmeston by William de Caversham [the current lords father]. Due to this family background of rebellion, he is mistrusted by many of the English villagers.

Caradog's skills with the Longbow are often put to the task of supplying fresh meat for the Lord's table throughout the year. He is also used for tracking, both criminals and lost animals. Sir William also uses this rogue Welshman as an interpreter, when he is forced to communicate with his Welsh tennants. Now and again Caradog helps Jake upon whom he is billeted, by working on his gardens. Caradog, like many of his fellow tribal Welshmen, is both warrior and farmer.

Like his father Caradog is a bondsman not a free man, but his talents are greatly appreciated by the lord. He has been on a number of campaigns with Sir William the younger and is considered one of the finest bowmen in the village

However, his main role in the village is as a jim crow or lookout. Most of his time is spent patrolling the boundary of the manor and ensuring that there is no encroachment upon Sir William’s lands by thief or brigand.

Caradog will often stay out all night, simply rolling himself in a blanket and sleeping with one eye open, ever on the lookout for threats to the manor!