Glyndwr Day Worthy New National Holiday

Daniel Keer

Owain Glyndŵr, the esteemed native Prince of Wales.

On 16 September, Wales comes alive with celebration as people honor Owain Glyndŵr, the esteemed native Prince of Wales. This day marks not only a commemoration but also a recognition of resilience and courage in the face of adversity. Glyndŵr’s story resonates deeply, portraying a rebel spirit that fought tirelessly against English rule during the Late Middle Ages. His establishment of the first Welsh parliament stands as a testament to his vision and leadership. 

As the last native-born Welshman to hold the title Prince of Wales, Glyndŵr’s legacy endures, inspiring thousands to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of Welsh history. This annual event serves not only as a day of remembrance but also as a call for national unity and solidarity.

Glyndwr: The Courageous Prince of Wales and National Hero

Glyndŵr’s story is one of courage and resilience, echoing through the annals of Welsh history. Born into the royal lineage of the Princes of Powys and Deheubarth, his bloodline bore the weight of Welsh sovereignty. On 16 September 1400, Glyndŵr boldly declared himself Prince of Wales, igniting the flames of the Welsh Revolt against English rule. With his unwavering determination, he rallied troops to his cause, swiftly seizing key castles across Wales and wresting control from the grasp of King Henry IV. 

The Battle of Stalling Down in Glamorgan stands as a testament to Glyndŵr’s prowess, where his forces, bolstered by naval support from Scotland and France, triumphed against overwhelming odds. Glyndŵr’s victory resonated beyond borders, earning him the backing of King Charles VI of France and cementing his status as a national hero.

Celebrating Glyndŵr Day: A Proposal for a New National Holiday 

Commemorating the 600th Anniversary 

In 2000, celebrations echoed throughout Wales as the nation marked the 600th anniversary of the Glyndŵr Rising. From the historic town of Ruthin, where the uprising began, to the picturesque streets of Harlech, where an annual procession honors the legacy of Owain Glyndŵr, the spirit of resistance and independence was palpable. The occasion served as a poignant reminder of Glyndŵr’s unwavering determination to challenge English rule and secure Welsh sovereignty.

Campaigns and Calls for Recognition 

  • Wales Heritage initiated a campaign in 1999 advocating for national recognition of Glyndŵr Day as a public holiday.
  • In the year 2000, the Embassy group pushed for acknowledgment of Glyndŵr Day as a national day in Wales, specifically highlighting its 600th anniversary in 2001.
  • Notably, a company in Newcastle Emlyn demonstrate inclusivity by allowing its workers to choose between celebrating Owain Glyndŵr Day or a jubilee day honoring the British monarch.
  • Welsh politician Dafydd Wigley reinforced the importance of recognizing Owain Glyndŵr by proposing the designation of September 16 as a new national holiday.
  • Nia Jones of the Corwen Owain Glyndŵr Day Celebration Festival Committee advocated for Glyndŵr Day to become a bank holiday, ensuring widespread participation in the festivities.

The Noble Origins of Owain Glyndŵr 

Owain Glyndŵr’s birth into a powerful family of the Anglo-Welsh nobility heralded the dawn of a remarkable legacy. Amidst a backdrop of relative peace between Welsh tribes and the English aristocracy, Glyndŵr emerged as a symbol of unity and strength.

Though uncertainty veils the exact details of his birth, it is likely that he entered the world around 1350, with Sycharth near Oswestry and Trefgarn in Pembrokeshire standing as the potential sites of his origins. Raised amidst estates like Iscoed and Glyndyfrdwy, Glyndŵr’s childhood was steeped in the richness of Welsh heritage and the promise of a glorious future.

Owain Glyndŵr’s Early Military Service 

In 1384, Owain Glyndŵr embarked on his military career, a journey marked by courage and dedication. Serving under Sir Gregory Sais on garrison duty along the English-Scottish border, Glyndŵr honed his skills in the crucible of conflict. His valor shone brightly during Richard II’s Scottish War in 1385, where he likely fought under Richard Fitzalan, the Earl of Arundel.

The Battle of Cadzand in 1387 further tested Glyndŵr’s mettle as he confronted the Franco-Flemish fleet. Despite the valorous deeds of Arundel’s squires, Glyndŵr’s own knighthood remained elusive, a testament to his humility amidst the rigors of warfare.

Studying Law in London 

During the 1380s and 1390s, Owain Glyndŵr pursued legal education at the prestigious Inns of Court in London, a pivotal period that shaped his juridical acumen and strategic thinking. Influenced by his father-in-law, Sir David Hammer, an eminent English judge settled in Wales, Glyndŵr delved into the intricacies of English law, bridging the divide between Welsh heritage and English legal traditions. 

This journey of intellectual growth was not merely academic but reflected Glyndŵr’s commitment to fostering harmony and understanding across cultural boundaries. His marriage to Angharad, daughter of Llywelyn Ddu ap Gruffudd ab Iorwerth Foel, symbolized the fusion of Welsh and English identities, a union celebrated in the quaint village of Hammer where the couple exchanged vows in the local church.

The Legacy of Owain Glyndŵr 

Owain Glyndŵr stands as a towering figure in the annals of Welsh history, revered for his unwavering dedication to the principles of freedom and self-governance. As the last Prince of Wales, Glyndŵr envisioned a nation where Welsh identity thrived, adorned with its own churches, parliament, and universities. 

Beyond his time, Glyndŵr’s name transcends centuries, becoming a symbol of pride and liberation not only in Wales but across the globe. His influence echoes through the ages, recognized even by esteemed publications like The Sunday Times, which hailed him as one of the most influential figures of the last millennium. Today, Glyndŵr’s legacy lives on, not just in the pages of history books but in the fabric of Welsh culture, manifested in statues, monuments, and place names that honor his enduring spirit. 

The establishment of Glyndwr University and the emergence of Rygbi Gogledd Cymru, the North Wales Rugby team, pay homage to his memory, ensuring that his legacy remains vibrant and relevant in modern times.

Asserting Welsh Identity 

Amidst the festivities, the Welsh Tourist Board rallied communities to proudly fly the Welsh flag from their homes, symbolizing unity and pride in Welsh heritage. Even in the face of adversity, as demonstrated by the publisher Y Lolfa, which definitely issued a commemorative stamp to protest the Royal Mail’s oversight, the Welsh people stood firm in their commitment to honoring Glyndŵr’s legacy.

Envisioning a New National Holiday 

As we reflect on Glyndŵr’s legacy, it’s time to contemplate the significance of Glyndŵr Day as a national holiday. This day would not only honor the memory of a visionary leader but also serve as a symbol of Welsh pride and identity. Through celebrations and ceremonies, we can pay tribute to Glyndŵr’s courageous spirit and his unwavering commitment to freedom and independence. 

By commemorating his proclamation and the valiant efforts of his troops, we reaffirm our commitment to preserving our heritage and upholding the values for which Glyndŵr fought so fiercely. Let Glyndŵr Day be not just a remembrance of the past, but a celebration of our collective strength and resilience as a nation.

Owain Glyndwr Flag and Statue 

The Owain Glyndwr flag waves proudly across Wales, alongside the Welsh Dragon Flag, symbolizing the enduring legacy of this national hero. In the heart of Corwen, a life-size bronze statue immortalizes Glyndwr’s leadership and courage. Crafted by Colin Spofforth and mounted on an eight-ton plinth, the statue depicts Glyndwr astride his horse, clad in battle uniform, a tribute to his indomitable spirit and legacy that continues to inspire generations.

A Historic Gathering

In the quaint town of Machynlleth, where Glyndŵr convened the first national parliament of Wales before his coronation as Prince of Wales, the day resonates with historical significance. Here, amidst the echoes of past battles for independence, the spirit of Glyndŵr’s vision for a sovereign Wales is kept alive, inspiring future generations to cherish and protect their heritage.

Conclusion 

Glyndwr Day stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Owain Glyndŵr, a figure of immense courage and resilience in Welsh history. This annual celebration on 16th September not only commemorates Glyndŵr’s bold declaration as Prince of Wales but also pays homage to the spirit of resistance against English rule. 

As Wales unites in celebration, it reaffirms its identity and pride, honoring Glyndŵr’s vision of a sovereign nation. The call for Glyndwr Day to become a new national holiday reflects the collective desire to cherish Welsh heritage and commemorate the struggles of the past. By embracing Glyndwr Day, we embrace our history, our culture, and our shared journey towards freedom and independence.

Author

  • Daniel Keer

    Daniel Keer, The National Wales' News Researcher, navigates news with precision. Uncover captivating stories and cutting-edge insights as he unveils the latest narratives, delivering information that resonates and informs.

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