Edmund Dunch (Roundhead) facts for kids

Edmund Dunch, 1st Baron Burnell of East Wittenham (born 1602, died 1678) was an important English politician. He was a Member of Parliament (MP) who supported the Parliament's side during the English Civil War. After the war, during a time called the Interregnum, he continued to serve as an MP. In 1659, just before the king returned to power, he was part of the English Committee of Safety.

When the monarchy was restored under King Charles II, Dunch was pardoned. However, the special titles he received during the time without a king were not recognized by the new government.

Edmund Dunch's Early Political Life

Edmund Dunch started his political career as a Member of Parliament (MP). He was first elected for Berkshire in 1624. He was re-elected for the same area in 1625 and 1626. Later, in 1628, he became an MP for Wallingford. At that time, Wallingford was in Berkshire, but today it is part of Oxfordshire. Dunch also served as the Sheriff of Berkshire from 1633 to 1634.

Challenges with King Charles I

In 1639, King Charles I ordered Dunch's arrest. This was because Dunch had not paid "ship money." This was a tax the king tried to collect to build up the navy. John Hampden, another important figure, helped Dunch during his trial, and Dunch avoided punishment.

Dunch was elected again for Wallingford in the Short Parliament of 1640. He also represented Wallingford in the Long Parliament, which began in 1640.

Supporting Parliament in the Civil War

Edmund Dunch strongly supported the Parliament's side during the English Civil War. In 1641, he signed a special promise called the Protestation, showing his loyalty to Parliament.

During the war, King Charles I's forces took Dunch's home and lands at Little Wittenham. They gave them to Thomas Blagge, who was the governor of Wallingford Castle. In 1644, Dunch helped lead a parliamentary committee. This committee sent soldiers into areas around Oxfordshire and Berkshire, including Wallingford.

In 1647, Dunch took an oath to support the Solemn League and Covenant. This was an agreement between the English Parliament and Scottish Covenanters. He also served on the Parliamentary Committee for Compounding with Delinquents. This committee collected fines from people who had supported the King. In 1648, Dunch spoke out against any agreement with King Charles I.

After the King's Capture

After King Charles I was captured, Parliament went through a big change. Many MPs who did not want the King put on trial were removed. This event was called Pride's Purge. Edmund Dunch was one of the MPs who remained and became part of the Rump Parliament.

In 1654, Dunch was elected MP for Berkshire in the First Protectorate Parliament. He was re-elected in 1656 for the Second Protectorate Parliament. He also became the governor of Wallingford Castle.

In 1658, Oliver Cromwell, who was the leader of England at the time, gave Dunch the title of Baron Burnell of East Wittenham. This was a special honor.

After Cromwell and the Monarchy's Return

After Oliver Cromwell's son, Richard Cromwell, stepped down as leader, Dunch might have joined the English Committee of Safety in 1659. He was fined for not attending Parliament that year, but the fine was later removed.

When King Charles II returned to power, he did not recognize Dunch's title as a Baron. This was the only title given by Cromwell that Charles II did not renew. However, Dunch was not punished like some others who had opposed the King. He received a general pardon under the Indemnity and Oblivion Act. From 1667 to 1668, he served as the Sheriff of Oxfordshire.

Family Connections

Edmund Dunch was the son of Sir William Dunch of Little Wittenham, Berkshire. His mother was Mary, the daughter of Sir Henry Williams (alias Cromwell). This meant that Edmund Dunch was a cousin of both John Hampden and Oliver Cromwell.

Edmund Dunch married Bridget Hungerford. She was the daughter of Anthony Hungerford of Down Ampney in Gloucestershire. When her father died, Bridget inherited a large sum of money.

Edmund Dunch's son, Hungerford Dunch (1639–1680), also became an MP for Wallingford. His grandson, Edmund Dunch, was the last male in their family line to be an MP.