William J. Kingstone

Sir Richard Cromwell, born Richard Williams around 1510, was a Welsh soldier and courtier who served King Henry VIII. He was the nephew of the influential Thomas Cromwell, a relationship that significantly benefited him, particularly during the Dissolution of the Monasteries. Richard actively participated in this process, receiving substantial grants of former monastic lands as rewards for his service. His career advanced through his uncle's patronage, leading him to adopt the Cromwell name and enter royal service. He distinguished himself in public and private matters, even playing a role in suppressing the Pilgrimage of Grace insurrection. His military prowess was recognized when he was knighted in 1540 after a notable performance in a jousting tournament. Despite his uncle's eventual downfall, Sir Richard's own standing remained secure. He held positions such as Member of Parliament for Huntingdonshire and High Sheriff of Cambridgeshire and Huntingdonshire, and continued to acquire significant properties. His military career extended to commanding cavalry in the war against France in 1543.

Born Richard Williams around 1510 in Glamorganshire, he was the eldest son of Morgan Williams and Katherine Cromwell, sister to the powerful statesman Thomas Cromwell. His father, a lawyer, was a descendant of a Welsh prince. After his parents' deaths, Richard entered the service of the Marquess of Dorset. By 1529, he had adopted the surname Cromwell, aligning himself with his influential uncle. He joined his uncle's household and was introduced to the royal court, serving as a liaison and actively participating in his uncle's affairs. This close association allowed him to benefit from the redistribution of confiscated church lands, and he was entrusted with significant responsibilities at a young age. He also reportedly played a part in quelling the Pilgrimage of Grace rebellion.

Sir Richard Cromwell was appointed as one of the Visitors of religious houses, a role that brought him considerable wealth through land grants. These grants, often acquired for nominal sums or in exchange for other properties, included numerous former monastic estates across various counties. Notable acquisitions included Hinchingbrooke nunnery, Sawtry-Judith monastery, Greyfriars Abbey in Great Yarmouth, and the rich Abbey of Ramsey. The value of these properties, often significantly understated in official records, provided him with substantial annual revenues. His involvement in the Dissolution and his familial connection to Thomas Cromwell ensured his favor with King Henry VIII.

By 1539, Richard Cromwell was a gentleman of the privy chamber and served as the Member of Parliament for Huntingdonshire. His military skills were recognized when he was knighted on May 2, 1540, following his distinguished performance in a grand jousting tournament. He competed against prominent knights and successfully unhorsed opponents in both jousts and at the barriers. For his valor, he and other challengers received annual rewards and houses from dissolved monastic estates. An anecdote suggests King Henry VIII was so impressed by his prowess that he gifted him a diamond ring. Even after his uncle Thomas Cromwell's execution in July 1540, Sir Richard's standing remained unaffected.

Following his knighthood, Sir Richard Cromwell continued to hold significant public office. He was appointed High Sheriff of Cambridgeshire and Huntingdonshire in 1541 and was re-elected as MP for Huntingdonshire in 1542. He received further royal grants, including Huntingdon Priory and St Neots Priory. His influence extended to administrative roles such as steward of the lordship of Archenfield and constable of Goodrich Castle. He also acquired properties in London and Wales, including Manorbier and Penally castles, and Neath Abbey, which he obtained through an exchange, possibly due to its proximity to his birthplace. In 1543, he commanded cavalry during the war in France.