Joseph Learmont facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Joseph Learmont
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|---|---|
| Allegiance |  |
| Rank | Major |
| Battles/wars | Rullion Green Bothwell Bridge |
Joseph Learmont was a brave Scottish soldier who became a Major in the Covenanter army. Before joining the army, he worked as a tailor. He owned land called Newholm, located near Dolphinton. This land was partly in Peebles and partly in Lanark. The Covenanters were a group of Scots who wanted to protect their Presbyterian church from the King's control.
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Fighting for Freedom: Major Learmont's Battles
In 1662, Joseph Learmont was fined a large sum of money. This was because he had worked with Oliver Cromwell's forces earlier.
The Battle of Rullion Green (1666)
In 1666, Major Learmont was second in command at the Rullion Green battle. He led the Covenanters' horse soldiers on the left side. The Covenanters were fighting against the King's army. Their attack was not successful, and their army had to retreat. However, Major Learmont managed to escape. He escaped with William Veitch, a preacher. Veitch later wrote about what happened at the battle.
The Battle of Bothwell Bridge (1679)
Major Learmont also fought in the Battle of Bothwell Bridge in 1679. This was another important battle for the Covenanters. After the Pentland Hills uprising, all of Learmont's property was taken away in 1667. For 16 years after that, he stayed hidden. No one could find him, even though many tried. He spent some of this time hiding in Ireland.
Captured and Imprisoned
Around February 1682, Major Learmont was finally caught. He was taken to Edinburgh. On April 7 of that year, he was sentenced to be executed. However, his friends helped him. His sentence was changed to life in prison. He was sent to the Bass Rock prison on May 13. He stayed there as a prisoner for five years.
Freedom and Later Life
After five years, doctors said he was very ill. The Council decided to release him. He had to promise that he would return to prison if he got better. But the Glorious Revolution happened the next year. This event freed him from his promise. He lived at his home in Newholm for several more years. Major Learmont passed away peacefully at the age of 88.
A Secret Tunnel at His Home
An interesting discovery was made at Major Learmont's house. A secret tunnel was found there! This tunnel might have helped him stay hidden for so long.
