Bridget Cromwell facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bridget Cromwell
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by Cornelius Johnson
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| Born | 5 August 1624 (baptised) |
| Died | June 1662 (aged 37) |
| Nationality | English |
| Spouse(s) | Henry Ireton Charles Fleetwood |
| Children | 7 |
| Parent(s) | Oliver Cromwell Elizabeth Bourchier |
Bridget Cromwell (1624 – June 1662) was the oldest daughter of Oliver Cromwell. He was a very important leader in England. Bridget married two famous generals. Her first husband was Henry Ireton. After he passed away, she married Charles Fleetwood.
Contents
Bridget Cromwell's Early Life and First Marriage
Bridget was born in 1624 to Elizabeth (Bourchier) and Oliver Cromwell. She became well-known in 1646 when she married Henry Ireton. Henry was a close friend and helper of her father, Oliver Cromwell. A famous artist named Cornelius Johnson painted her picture. This painting can now be seen at Chequers Court.
Life in Ireland with Henry Ireton
In 1651, Bridget and Henry went to Ireland. Henry was there to support the Parliamentarian side. This group wanted the English Parliament to have more power. Bridget did not stay in Ireland for very long. She was back in England when she heard sad news. Her husband, Henry, had died in Limerick on November 26, 1651.
Bridget's Second Marriage and Later Years
In 1652, Bridget married again. Her second husband was General Charles Fleetwood. He was also a friend of her father. Just like Henry, Charles was sent to Ireland to lead the army. This time, Bridget stayed in Ireland much longer. She lived there from 1652 to 1655.
Life After the Monarchy Returned
After the Restoration in 1660, Bridget lived in London. The Restoration was when the king returned to rule England. Her husband, Charles, was no longer allowed to lead the army. Bridget also faced a difficult time. The bodies of her first husband and her baby with Charles were dug up. This was done because Henry had been involved in the execution of King Charles I.
Bridget Cromwell's Death and Family
Bridget Cromwell passed away in June 1662. She had at least seven children. Some of her children were with Henry Ireton, and others were with Charles Fleetwood. She was buried in St Anne's Church in Blackfriars, London. One of her daughters, Bridget Bendish, also became well-known.
Bridget in Art and History
Bridget is shown in a painting at the National Portrait Gallery. In this picture, her family is shown asking Oliver Cromwell to save King Charles I. The original painting was by William Fisk. An artist named James Scott made an engraving of it in 1839.
