In a message dated 27/10/2003 18:10:02 GMT Standard Time, PennsylGuy(a)aol.com
writes:
My ancestor Robert Vaughan of Hengwrt (1592-1667), according to the
Dictionary of Welsh Biography, had a son named Ynyr. Ynyr did not marry but had a
son who took the name John ab Ynyr and emigrated to Pennsylvania. I'm seeking
information on this John ab Ynyr and I'd like to know how likely it is that
he anglicized his name to BONNER. His Aunt Jane (Vaughan) Owen and cousin
Dr. Griffith Owen came to Pennsylvania as Quakers in 1684 aboard the VINE. Any
information or advice would be appreciated. Thanks.
Bonner is a surname found in parts of England, specifically Yorkshire, which,
I understand has a meaning related to "Bonny" i.e. fair of face, however
there are a few examples in Shropshire in the 16th century of ab Ynyr being
"translated" into Bonner as well, so it is possible that Sion ab Ynyr became
John
Bonner when he emigrated.
As Yorkshire also had a large Quaker community that emigrated to Pennsylvania
in the early years, it would be difficult to make an educated guess about the
origins of the name Bonner in the colony.
As you now confidently refer to Robert Vaughan as your ancestor, have you
received the details of the link between Vaughan and John Jones the regicide?
All the best
Alwyn