Joseph Wagstaffe facts for kids

Sir Joseph Wagstaffe (born around 1611 – died 1666 or 1667) was an important soldier who fought for the King during the English Civil War. He was known as a Royalist officer and was one of the leaders in a rebellion called the Penruddock uprising in 1655.

Early Life and Family

Joseph Wagstaffe was likely born around 1611. He was probably the youngest of seven sons of Richard Wagstaffe. His family lived in Harbury, a town in Warwickshire, England.

A Soldier's Journey

Sir Joseph Wagstaffe was a professional soldier. This means he fought for whoever paid him.

Fighting in Europe

In 1642, he was a major in an Irish army group that was working for France.

The English Civil War

Soon after, in June 1642, he joined the English Parliament's army. He became a lieutenant-colonel. This army was planning to go to Ireland. Later that year, he held the same rank in a regiment led by John Hampden. This group was part of the Earl of Essex's army.

In January 1643, Wagstaffe was captured by the Royalists. These were the soldiers who supported King Charles I. After being captured, he decided to switch sides. He then joined the King's army. He was given the job of forming his own group of soldiers.

Later, he became a major-general under Prince Maurice. He fought in the west of England. The King made him a knight at Crediton on July 27, 1644. He was known for his skillful retreat during the difficult Battle of Langport.

The Penruddock Uprising

In 1655, Royalists in western England wanted to rebel against Oliver Cromwell. Cromwell was leading England at the time. They chose Wagstaffe to be their leader. They knew him well and liked him.

Planning the Rebellion

People described Wagstaffe as a brave man. He was good at taking action, even if he didn't plan far ahead. He was also very friendly and enjoyed having fun. This made people like him a lot.

The Salisbury Attack

On March 12, 1655, Wagstaffe and about 200 Royalists from Wiltshire entered Salisbury. They announced that Charles II was the rightful King. They surprised the judges and the sheriff in their beds and captured them. Wagstaffe thought about hanging them as a warning to others. However, Colonel Penruddock and other local gentlemen stopped him.

Escape from South Molton

Wagstaffe and his group left Salisbury with about 400 men. They marched into Dorset, but not many new people joined them. When they reached Somerset, their numbers started to shrink. On the night of March 14, Captain Unton Croke attacked them at South Molton. The few remaining Royalists were captured or scattered. Wagstaffe himself managed to escape. It is said he jumped his horse over the north wall of the churchyard. A gate in that wall is now called "The Wagstaffe Gate."

Life After the War

After the uprising, Wagstaffe managed to avoid being caught. He returned to Holland by July. He lived to see the King return to power in England. This event is known as the English Restoration. He asked for a job, but he did not get it. In 1662, he received a small gift of some of the late King's belongings.