Gove's Rebellion facts for kids

Gove's Rebellion was a short event in 1683 in the Province of New Hampshire. Some people from the towns of Exeter and Hampton decided to stand up against the Royal Governor, Edward Cranfield. They were trying to get more people to join them when they were arrested. The leader, Edward Gove, faced serious charges and was sent to London. But three years later, King James II forgave him, and Gove came back to New Hampshire.

This event happened when many American colonists were unhappy with their governments. Other similar events included Bacon's Rebellion, Coode's Rebellion, Leisler's Rebellion, Culpeper's Rebellion, the Charter Oak Incident, and the Boston Revolt.

Why the Rebellion Happened

New Hampshire had recently become a royal province. This happened after King Charles II separated it from Massachusetts. Massachusetts had governed New Hampshire for almost 40 years.

From 1679 to 1682, New Hampshire was led by a council chosen by the people. Then, King James II sent a royal governor named Edward Cranfield. The colonists did not like having a governor chosen for them. Governor Cranfield was especially unpopular. He made sure people followed strict trade laws.

In 1683, Governor Cranfield tried to make the council approve a new tax. They kept saying no. So, he got rid of the council. He took complete control of the colony and ordered the new tax directly.

The Rebellion Begins

On January 27, 1683, Edward Gove, who used to be a council member from Hampton, talked about rebelling. He spoke with other leaders in the province. They told him not to do it.

However, Gove decided to go ahead anyway. He armed himself, his son, and his servant. He rode his horse to Exeter. He wanted to get citizens to join his fight against the governor.

On the way, a local official named Nathaniel Weare tried to stop them. Gove and his group got away. They continued to Exeter. There, they managed to gather about a dozen armed supporters.

Gathering More Support

The rebels then went back to Hampton. They wanted to get more men to join their cause. One man blew a trumpet loudly. The group made a lot of noise to get the townspeople's attention.

This noise also got the attention of the local militia. The militia quickly arrested almost all the rebels. Only the trumpeter managed to escape.

What Happened Next

Most of the arrested rebels were found guilty but were set free. However, Governor Cranfield wanted to make an example of their leader. Edward Gove was put on trial. A grand jury found him guilty of a very serious crime against the government.

The judge, Major Richard Waldron, sentenced him to a severe punishment. Governor Cranfield was worried Gove might escape and cause more trouble. So, he sent Gove to Boston, and then to London.

Gove was held in the Tower of London for almost three years. He was waiting for his punishment. His wife asked the King to release her husband. Eventually, the King did. Gove returned to New Hampshire. Soon after, Edward Cranfield was removed as governor.