James Paynter facts for kids
James Paynter (born 1666 – death date unknown) was an important leader in a movement called the Jacobite uprising in Cornwall during the 1700s.
In 1715, he actively supported James Francis Edward Stuart, also known as the Old Pretender. This happened after Queen Anne died. James Francis Edward Stuart believed he should be the new king. For his actions, James Paynter was put on trial for a very serious crime called High Treason in Launceston. However, he used a special right he had as a Cornish tinner (a tin miner). This meant he could be tried by a jury of other tinners. They found him not guilty, and he was set free! People celebrated his return with bonfires and parties all the way to Land's End. Because of his loyalty, he was given a special title, Marquess of Trelissick (also called Marquis of Trelessick), on June 20, 1715. This title was part of the Jacobite Peerage, which were titles given by James Francis Edward Stuart.
Paynter's Family and Supporters
James Paynter came from the rich Paynter family of Trelissick Manor in Hayle. His part of the family lived at Trekenning House in St Columb Major parish. Other Paynter relatives at Boskenna also supported the Jacobite cause. In 1745, people in St Buryan even thought the Paynter family might be hiding Charles Edward Stuart, who was known as the Young Pretender.
Other Jacobite Leaders in the Southwest
Many other people in the southwest of England also supported the Jacobite cause. Here are a few of them:
- Sir Richard Vyvyan: In 1715, he was held in the Tower of London. His wife, Mary, joined him there, and their daughter was born while they were in the Tower.
- James Butler, 2nd Duke of Ormonde: In August 1715, he lost his titles and lands because of his support for the Jacobites.
- George Granville, 1st Baron Lansdowne: He was also held in the Tower of London from 1715 to 1717.
- John Anstis: On September 30, 1715, he was arrested because people thought he was involved in Jacobite plans. He had a long legal fight to prove his right to a special title called Garter. Anstis finally won his case in May 1718.
