Francis Billingsley facts for kids
Colonel Francis Billingsley (1595–1646) was an important officer who fought for King Charles I during the English Civil War. This war was a big fight in England between those who supported the King (called Royalists or Cavaliers) and those who supported Parliament (called Parliamentarians or Roundheads).
Francis Billingsley was put in charge of defending the town of Bridgnorth in Shropshire. Sadly, he was killed on March 31, 1646, when Parliamentarian soldiers attacked the town. He died in the churchyard of St Leonard's.
His special sword, called a rapier, was later given to the church by one of his family members, Lois Astley. For many years, people could see it on display in the church. It was stolen around the year 2000 and has not been found since.
Who Was Francis Billingsley?
Francis Billingsley came from a well-known family in Astley Abbotts, a place in Shropshire. In 1616, he married Eleanor Kerry.
His Family and Siblings
Francis had several brothers and sisters. One of his brothers was Sir Thomas Billingsley, who was famous for his skills with horses. Another brother, Captain John Billingsley, chose to support Parliament during the Civil War, which was different from Francis.
His Children's Roles
Francis and Eleanor had children who also played a part in the war. Their son, Francis Billingsley, became a major in the Royalist army, just like his father. Another son, Captain Edward Billingsley, also served in the army. He married the daughter of another Royalist officer, Francis Sandford.
