Peter Vowell facts for kids

Peter Vowell (died 10 July 1654) was an English schoolteacher. He was a Royalist, meaning he supported the King during a time when England was not ruled by a king. Vowell was found guilty of a very serious crime against the government. This was for his part in a secret plan known as Gerard's conspiracy. The goal of this plan was to remove Oliver Cromwell, who was the leader of England at the time. Peter Vowell was put to death for his actions.

Peter Vowell and the Royalists

Peter Vowell lived during a time when England was going through big changes. The country was not ruled by a king. Instead, it was led by a powerful figure named Oliver Cromwell, who was called the Lord Protector.

Vowell was a Royalist. This means he believed that England should be ruled by a king. Many Royalists were unhappy with Cromwell's rule and wanted to bring back the monarchy.

The Gerard's Conspiracy Plot

In May 1654, Peter Vowell became involved in a secret plan. This plan was called Gerard's conspiracy. It was named after one of the main people involved, John Gerard. Another person involved was Summerset Fox.

The plan was very serious. It aimed to attack Oliver Cromwell and his guards. Cromwell was the leader of England, and the plotters wanted to remove him from power. They planned to attack him as he traveled to Hampton Court.

Vowell's Role in the Plan

Peter Vowell's part in this secret plan was to help with the horses. The plotters needed to get horses that were grazing in fields near Islington. Vowell was supposed to help seize these horses.

However, the government found out about the plot. They learned about the secret plans before they could happen. Because of this, arrests were made, and Vowell, Gerard, and Fox were all captured.

Trial and Outcome

On June 30, 1654, Peter Vowell and John Gerard were put on trial. They were tried by a special court called the High Court of Justice. This court met in Westminster Hall in London. Both Vowell and Gerard were found guilty of plotting against the government.

Ten days later, on July 10, 1654, the sentences were carried out. John Gerard was put to death at Tower Hill. Peter Vowell was put to death at Charing Cross. Summerset Fox, who admitted his guilt, was sent away to Barbados.