The Order is a non-profit charity, of the type referred to as a hereditary society
The Objects of the Order are charitable and educational and shall specifically serve to encourage the study of the history of Ancient Wales and Welsh Immigration to America, to verify the genealogy of descendants of the Ancient Welsh Kings and Princes of Deheubarth, Gwent, Glamorgan, Gwynedd, and Powys prior to December 11, 1282, the death of Llywelyn ap Gruffydd, also known as Llywelyn the Last, and Welsh Immigrants to America prior to July 4, 1776; accomplish research, preserve manuscripts, wills, deeds, and other documents; to support the restoration of sites and landmarks having charitable, literary, educational, historical, or governing backgrounds; to promote patriotism.
Legacy of the Princes of Wales
The Hereditary Order of the Red Dragon honors the legacy of the final native Princes of Wales, whose leadership, lineage, and resistance shaped Welsh history. Central to this heritage are Llywelyn the Great and Llywelyn the Last—figures whose reigns define the political and cultural identity of medieval Wales.
Llywelyn Fawr ap Iorwerth
Llywelyn the Great, Prince of Wales (c. 1173-1240)
Llywelyn Fawr ap Iorwerth, revered as Llywelyn the Great, united much of Wales under a single principality and established diplomatic recognition of Welsh sovereignty. His reign marked a period of political strength, legal reform, and cultural stability, laying the foundation for the princely houses whose descendants the Order seeks to honor and document.
Llywelyn ap Gruffydd
Llywelyn the Last (c. 1223-1282)
Llywelyn ap Gruffydd, known as Llywelyn the Last, was the final native Prince of Wales and the last sovereign ruler to resist English conquest. His death in 1282 marked the end of independent Welsh rule and a defining moment in the history of Wales. His legacy remains central to the study of Welsh sovereignty, lineage, and national identity.
