Mary Speke facts for kids

Mary Speke (born Pye) lived from about 1625 to 1697. She was an English woman who supported religious groups that were different from the main church. She was also very active in politics. Mary lived in Somerset with her family, who also held these different religious beliefs.

She was known for changing her husband's political ideas. A religious leader, the Bishop of Bath and Wells, even told a government official that she was "the most dangerous woman in the West."

Mary Speke's Early Life and Family

Mary Speke was born as Mary Pye around 1625. Her parents were Mary (born Croker) and Sir Robert Pye. Her father was an important government official who managed money for the King. Mary's older brother, also named Robert Pye, supported the Parliament.

Mary married George Speke on May 21, 1641. They lived in a place called Whitelackington in Somerset. It is believed that Mary helped her husband change his political views. He switched from supporting the King to supporting the new Whig Party. The Whigs believed that Parliament should have more power.

Mary and George had nine children together. Sadly, three of them died when they were young. Five of their children, including Hugh Speke, grew up to follow their parents' political ideas. Their youngest daughter, Philip, married a politician named John Trenchard.

Standing Up for Beliefs

Mary Speke became a particular target of Peter Mews. He was the Bishop of Bath and Wells, a religious leader in their area. The Bishop believed it was his job to report on wealthy families who did not follow the main church. He paid special attention to the Speke family, especially Mary.

It is not fully known why he focused so much on Mary. Other family members were in touch with people who were seen as rebels. Her husband was also known for speaking badly about the King and Queen. In July 1683, the Bishop told a high-ranking government official that Mary was "the most dangerous woman in the West." He warned that she was in London at the time. Mary was thought to be organizing secret religious meetings and encouraging people to disagree with the government.

Facing Challenges and Arrests

Mary was arrested several times. This was likely because the authorities were suspicious of her frequent trips to London. They also watched her letters with other people who disagreed with the government. Her reputation was similar to that of Elizabeth Gaunt. Elizabeth Gaunt faced severe punishment in 1685 for her beliefs. However, Elizabeth was a shopkeeper, while Mary Speke came from a well-connected family.

In 1685, Mary's fourth son, Charles, was executed after a failed uprising called Monmouth's Rebellion. The rest of the Speke family was pardoned, meaning they were forgiven, after paying a large sum of money.

Mary Speke passed away in 1697.