John Speed (martyr) facts for kids
John Speed was an English man who lived a long time ago, in the 1500s. He was a Roman Catholic and was known for helping Catholic priests. Because of his actions, he was found guilty and put to death in Durham on February 4, 1594. The Catholic Church honors him as a martyr, which means someone who died for their faith. He was officially recognized as "blessed" by Pope Pius XI in 1929.
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John Speed's Story
John Speed was part of a group of four people known as "The Durham Martyrs of 1594." These individuals were put to death in County Durham during that year.
Helping Priests in England
John Speed was put to death for helping Catholic priests. At that time, it was against the law in England to be a Catholic priest or to help them. This was because of a law called the Supremacy of the Realm Act of 1585. Helping priests was considered a very serious crime.
Speed often helped a missionary priest named John Boste. A missionary priest travels to different places to share their faith. John Boste worked in Northern England, visiting places like Hylton Castle and the old Neville family estate at Brancepeth Castle near Durham. John Speed would often go with him, helping him travel safely from one secret house to another.
Avoiding Arrest
With John Speed's help, Father Boste was able to avoid being caught by the authorities for more than ten years. However, in 1593, someone who used to be Catholic told the authorities about them near Durham. Father Boste and those with him were arrested right after he had finished saying Mass (a Catholic church service) at a private house.
Standing Strong in His Faith
According to historical records, John Speed was offered chances to change his religion and join the Church of England. However, he chose to stay true to his Catholic faith.
A woman named Grace Claxton was also found guilty with John Speed. She was the wife of William Claxton, and Father Boste was arrested at their house. Grace Claxton was not put to death because she was pregnant at the time.
Other Martyrs of Durham
Besides John Speed, three other people were put to death in County Durham around the same time:
- John Boste, on July 24, 1594.
- George Swallowell, in Darlington on July 26, 1594.
- John Ingram, in Gateshead on July 26, 1594.
