Edward Dun facts for kids

Edward Dun (died 11 September 1663), also known as Squire Dun, was an important figure in London's history. He worked as the city's 'common hangman' from 1649 to 1663. This job meant he was responsible for carrying out punishments ordered by the courts. He took on this role shortly after the death of Richard Brandon in June 1649. Brandon was believed to be the person who carried out the execution of King Charles I.

Edward Dun: London's Hangman

Edward Dun served as London's official 'common hangman' for many years. This was a very specific and sometimes difficult job in 17th-century England. His work involved carrying out sentences given by the law.

What Was a "Common Hangman"?

A 'common hangman' was the person officially appointed by the government to perform executions. These were usually public events in those times. The hangman's role was to carry out the death penalty or other severe punishments. It was a job that required specific skills and was often passed down through families or apprenticeships.

Starting His Job

Edward Dun began his work as the common hangman in 1649. This was a very turbulent time in English history. England had just gone through a civil war, and the king, Charles I, had been executed. Dun took over the role from Richard Brandon. Brandon was famous for being the person who supposedly executed King Charles I.

The King's Executioner?

Richard Brandon was the hangman before Edward Dun. Many people believed Brandon was the one who executed King Charles I in 1649. After Brandon died in June 1649, Edward Dun stepped into this important and often feared position.

A Difficult Task: Posthumous Executions

Edward Dun might have been involved in some unusual executions in 1661. These were called posthumous executions. This means punishing someone after they have already died. In this case, the bodies of important figures like Oliver Cromwell, Henry Ireton, and John Bradshaw were dug up and publicly displayed as a form of punishment. These men had been key leaders during the English Civil War. A book called The last farewel of three bould traytors by Abraham Miles describes Dun's possible role in these events.

The End of His Service

Edward Dun's time as the common hangman ended on 11 September 1663, when he died. After his death, his apprentice took over the job. This apprentice became very well-known himself. His name was Jack Ketch. Ketch later became so famous that his name became a general term for an executioner.