John Lane of Bentley facts for kids

A painting of Colonel John Lane.

Colonel John Lane of Bentley (born in 1609 – died on August 31, 1667) was an important figure in English history. He was a Member of Parliament (MP) for Lichfield, a town in Staffordshire, from 1661 until his death in 1667.

John Lane was a Royalist colonel during the English Civil War. This means he supported King Charles II and his family. After the Royalist side lost the Battle of Worcester in 1651, Colonel Lane bravely offered a safe place for King Charles II to hide at his home, the Bentley estate. King Charles II later left Bentley disguised as a servant, traveling with John Lane's sister, Jane Lane, who was heading to Bristol. You can learn more about this exciting event in the story of the Escape of Charles II .

After the war, when the king returned to power during the Restoration of the Monarchy, John Lane was chosen to be a Member of Parliament. He passed away in 1667, and Richard Dyott took his place in Parliament.

Who Was Colonel John Lane?

Colonel John Lane was a brave and loyal supporter of the King during a very difficult time in England. He lived in a grand house called Bentley Hall in Staffordshire. His family was well-known and respected in the area.

The English Civil War

The English Civil War was a big fight between those who supported the King (called Royalists or Cavaliers) and those who supported Parliament (called Parliamentarians or Roundheads). It happened in the mid-1600s and decided how England would be governed. Colonel Lane was a "colonel," which means he was a high-ranking officer in the King's army.

Helping King Charles II Escape

After a major battle called the Battle of Worcester in 1651, the Royalists were defeated. King Charles II was in great danger and needed to escape from England. Colonel John Lane played a crucial role in helping the King. He offered his home, Bentley Hall, as a secret hiding place for the King.

The Disguise and Journey

While at Bentley Hall, King Charles II planned his escape. To avoid being caught, he dressed up as a servant. He pretended to be the helper of John Lane's sister, Jane Lane. Jane was traveling to Bristol, and the disguise helped the King move through the country without being recognized by his enemies. This was a very risky plan, but it worked!

After the War: A Member of Parliament

Years later, in 1660, the King returned to England, and the monarchy was restored. This period is known as the "Restoration." Because of his loyalty and bravery, Colonel John Lane was rewarded. He was elected as a Member of Parliament, representing the town of Lichfield. This meant he helped make laws and decisions for the country. He served in Parliament until he died in 1667.