The Lordship of Denbigh, 1282–1543

A study of the creation of the historic county of Denbighshire in Wales. The lordship of Denbigh, held by prominent English barons following its creation in 1282, was directly affected by several major events that culminated in its incorporation into the newly created county of Denbighshire, formed by the Union legislation of 1536–43. This book explores the creation of and the important changes to the English colony established in the lordship of Denbigh. Despite the earlier extensive English settlement, the area has been considered to have contributed immensely to the Welsh literary heritage. The social policy adopted by the central administration, based at Denbigh castle, featured a colony comprised of English settlers who inhabited five English settlement centers surrounded by localities of displaced Welsh tenants. The book provides an assessment of notable trends relating to the acquisition and disposal of lands by male and female members of both Welsh and settler families, revealing that members of kindred groups succeeded in evading traditional restrictions. Further, the book surveys significant developments relating to the possession of and main activities within the lordship of Denbigh from 1282 to 1543.