Nathaniel Wade facts for kids

Nathaniel Wade was an English lawyer who lived a long time ago, from about 1666 to 1718. He was involved in some secret plans against the government, like the Rye House Plot. He also took part in a big uprising called the Monmouth Rebellion.

Nathaniel Wade's Life Story

Early Years

Nathaniel Wade was born around 1666. He was the third son of John Wade, who lived in a place called Wick-house in Arlingham, Gloucestershire. His father, John Wade, was a major in Oliver Cromwell's army. He even governed the Isle of Man for a short time. The Wade family had lived near Bristol since 1560.

Secret Plans and Uprisings

Nathaniel Wade started studying law in 1678. As a young lawyer, he became involved with a group called the "country party." He also spent time at the Green Ribbon Club, where people discussed politics. In 1683, he was suspected of being part of the Rye House Plot. This was a secret plan to harm the king.

A reward was offered for his capture. But Nathaniel managed to escape to Holland. He stayed there for two years. During this time, he worked as a messenger for the Duke of Monmouth.

Wade then joined the Monmouth Rebellion in 1685. He sailed with Monmouth and landed in Lyme Regis. He fought in the rebellion, even leading a group of soldiers. At first, he didn't want Monmouth to declare himself king. But he later changed his mind. He fought bravely at the Battle of Sedgemoor.

After the battle, he tried to escape by sea but was caught. He was taken to Newgate Prison in London. Even though he had been involved in the rebellion, he was allowed to help the king's side. He gave evidence against others and received a full pardon in 1686.

Later Years in Bristol

In 1687, King James wanted to improve his relationship with certain groups. He sent Nathaniel Wade to Bristol. Wade was given a special job to reorganize the city's government. As a reward, he was made the town clerk of Bristol.

He held this job for a while. Later, in 1710, he was confirmed as a steward for the sheriff's court in Bristol. In 1714, he led the local militia against some colliers (coal miners) in Kingswood. He left his city job in 1712.

In 1711, he helped build a bridge over the River Frome in Bristol. This bridge became known as "Traitor's Bridge." Nathaniel Wade passed away in 1718. He was buried on March 14, 1718. People often called him "Major Wade" in his later years.