The Welsh Robin Hood

Some Welsh writers and scholars have claimed that Robin Hood may have been Welsh based on linguistic and cultural similarities between Robin Hood and Welsh folklore heroes such as Twm Sion Cati.

However, these claims are largely speculative and are not supported by historical evidence so don’t get all uppity.

However, because we’re amazing journalists we’ve done a bit more research on this diabolical suggestion, so read on Hoodies.

Twm Sion Cati

Twm Sion Cati was a legendary Welsh outlaw who lived during the 16th century. He was known for his cunning and daring exploits, and his story has become an important part of Welsh folklore and culture, sounds like someone we know right?

Early Life and Career

According to legend, Twm Sion Cati was born in the village of Tregaron in Ceredigion, Wales. His real name was Thomas Jones, but he became known as Twm Sion Cati after his father, John, who was known as Sion Cati. Twm Sion Cati was said to have been a mischievous and rebellious child, and he was often in trouble with the law.

As a young man, Twm Sion Cati became involved in a number of criminal activities, including theft and poaching. He was known for his cleverness and his ability to evade the authorities, and he soon became a notorious outlaw. He was also said to have been a skilled horseman and a master of disguise, which helped him to evade capture, he once dressed up as a tree stump to hide from the authorities, although we just made that up so he probably didn’t.

Exploits and Legends

Twm Sion Cati's exploits became the stuff of legend, and many stories were told about his daring escapes and clever schemes. According to one popular legend, Twm Sion Cati once stole a herd of cattle from a wealthy landowner, and then drove them through a river to leave no trace of their tracks. When the landowner accused him of the theft, Twm Sion Cati was able to prove his innocence by showing that his own cattle had wet feet, while the stolen cattle did not, so clever.

Another famous story tells of Twm Sion Cati's escape from a group of pursuers by disguising himself as a corpse and being carried out of town in a coffin. When the coffin was opened outside the town, Twm Sion Cati jumped out and fled.

Twm Sion Cati was also known for his Robin Hood-like exploits, such as stealing from the rich to give to the poor. He was said to have been a friend to the common people, and many of them supported him and helped him to evade capture.

Legacy

Today, Twm Sion Cati is remembered as a folk hero and a symbol of Welsh independence and resistance to authority. His story has inspired many works of literature, including novels, plays, and poems. There is even a pub in his hometown of Tregaron that bears his name.

In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve and promote Twm Sion Cati's legacy. The Welsh government has designated him as a "Welsh cultural icon," and there are plans to create a tourist trail that would follow in his footsteps and highlight the places associated with his life and exploits.

His legacy continues to inspire and captivate people around the world, and his legend is sure to endure for generations to come, not as popular as our own Robin Hood, but who knows, maybe there is a connection there after all, cousins perhaps? Do some digging and let us know what you find on our Socials below.