William Robert Maurice Wynne

William Robert Maurice Wynne of Peniarth, Merionethshire (1840 – 1909), was a Conservative politician and prominent landowner who also made a notable contribution to the cultural life of Wales by donating the Peniarth Manuscripts to the National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth. Wynne also served as Conservative MP for Merioneth from 1865 to 1868. He stood down in 1868 when facing likely defeat by the Liberal candidate David Williams, following the Second Reform Act. Wynne was the eldest son of William Watkin Edward Wynne of Peniarth, MP for Merionethshire from 1852 until 1865. He was educated at Eton and later served in the Scots Guards. In 1865 he succeeded hi father as MP for Merionethshire, narrowly defeating Liberal challenger David Williams in an election noted for allegations of coercion. In 1868, following the extension of the franchise, Wynne withdrew rather than face another contest which he was likely to lose. David Williams was elected unopposed and the Liberals held the seat until 1951. Wynne was Lord Lieutenant of Merionethshire from 1891 until his death. He was also a member of Merionethshire County Council from its formation in 1889 until his death.