© Dr Robin Gwyndaf, Museum of Welsh Life |
Clough had two daughters by Katheryn, Anne (b. 1568) who inherited Bach-y-graig, and Mary (b. 1569). Clough’s ‘forraine born’ son inherited Plas Clough, and the Cloughs remained there until the seventh generation. He had many famous descendants, most notably the Victorian poet - Arthur Hugh Clough, and Sir Clough Williams-Ellis – the creator of Portmeirion (featured in our Archive).
The 19th Century historian, John Williams said that Clough, "raised himself by his merit from a poor boy in Denbigh to become one of the greatest merchants of his time".
More than a successful tradesman, Clough’s reputation encompassed active interests in architecture, astronomy and cartography. His less-salubrious activities enhanced, rather than detracted from the image of ‘the most complete man’, where a little spying, money-laundering and smuggling added to the romantic legend; Richard Clough, possibly the original international man of mystery.
With thanks to Denbigh Library Service
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