Gilbert Gerard of Crewood facts for kids
Gilbert Gerard (1604–1673) lived at Crewood Hall in Frodsham, Cheshire. He was an important figure during a time of big changes in England. Gilbert Gerard was a colonel in the Parliamentary army during the First English Civil War. This was a major conflict where people who supported Parliament fought against those who supported the King.
After the war, he became a justice of the peace, which meant he helped keep law and order. He was very active in managing local affairs in Cheshire.
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Life and Work
A Smart Businessman
In the 1630s, Gilbert Gerard saw a great chance to make money. His home, Crewood, was perfectly placed for the salt trade. Salt was a very important product back then.
He set up a system to move salt using flat-bottomed boats. These boats traveled from Pickering ford down the river Weaver to Liverpool. This business was very successful. Later, in 1678, a building for processing salt was built near the river. His son, Benjamin, even became a "citizen and Salter of London," showing how important their salt business became.
Local Leader and Puritan Supporter
In the early 1640s, many people in Gilbert Gerard's local church were Puritans. Puritans were a group of Protestants who wanted to make the Church of England simpler. Gilbert Gerard became their main spokesperson.
He also served as a head constable. This meant he was a chief officer responsible for keeping the peace in his area.
Role in the English Civil War
When the First English Civil War began, Gilbert Gerard joined the Parliamentary army. These soldiers were called "Roundheads." He became the governor of the army base at Northwich.
He fought in the Battle of Tarvin in 1643. He also helped the Parliamentary army win the important siege of Chester. This was all done under the command of a leader named Sir William Brereton. Gilbert Gerard was a good military officer. He was also good at managing things. He successfully collected money from different areas to support the war effort.
After the War
After the First Civil War, during a time known as the Interregnum (England) (when England had no king), Gilbert Gerard continued to serve as a justice of the peace. In this role, he helped to stop a rebellion called Booth's Rebellion in 1659.
When the king returned to power in England in 1660, a period called the Restoration, Gilbert Gerard lost his position as a justice of the peace. In 1665, he was arrested. However, there are no clear records about why he was arrested or if he was involved in any secret plans.
Family Life
Gilbert Gerard was married and had a large family. He had seven sons and six daughters.
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