Robert Levinz facts for kids

Robert Levinz (1615 – 18 July 1650) was a brave supporter of the King during a very important time in English history. He was also known as Levens or Levinge. Robert came from a family with strong ties to Oxford, a famous university city.

His father, William Levinz, was a brewer near Abingdon. Robert's grandfather, also named William Levinz, was a well-known person in Oxford. He served as an alderman and was mayor five times in the late 1500s! He is buried in All Saints Church, where there is a statue of him lying down. Robert Levinz was also the uncle of three notable men: Sir Creswell Levinz, Baptist Levinz, and William Levinz.

Robert's Early Life and Education

Robert Levinz studied at Lincoln College, which is part of Oxford University. He earned his first degree, a B.A., on 4 February 1634. Later, in 1642, he earned a higher degree called a D.C.L.. This shows he was a very educated person.

In 1640, Robert worked as an official helper for the Bishop of Norwich, Richard Montagu. This role involved important duties for the church.

Robert Levinz and the English Civil War

The English Civil War began in England, a big conflict between the King and Parliament. Robert Levinz chose to support the King. He joined the King's army in Oxford and became a captain.

However, in 1646, Oxford surrendered to Parliament's army after a long Siege of Oxford. After this, Robert seems to have gone back to his studies for a while.

Working for King Charles II

After King Charles I was put to death, his son, Charles II, became the new King. Robert Levinz was chosen by Charles II to help with important talks and secret plans.

In 1650, King Charles II was in Scotland, planning to return to England. Robert Levinz was given special permission to gather soldiers in England for the King. This was a very risky mission.

Robert's Arrest and Final Stand

Robert Levinz's secret plan was found out in London. He was arrested, and his documents were taken. Among his papers, many empty forms signed by the King were discovered. These forms were ready to be filled in for new soldiers.

Robert was taken before a government group called the Council of State. They decided he was a spy and handed him over to a military court. He was judged by this military court and ordered to be hanged.

He was offered a chance to save his life if he would tell on his friends and reveal his accomplices. But Robert bravely refused to do this. He admitted what he did, but he strongly believed he was doing the right thing for the King.

On 18 July 1650, Robert Levinz was taken to Cornhill in a coach, guarded by soldiers on horseback. He was hanged near the Exchange.

Historian David Lloyd wrote that Robert Levinz had many friends and was known for being wise and honest. Robert's wife was the daughter of Sir Peregrine Bertie and the granddaughter of Robert, Earl of Lindsey.

Legacy

A picture of Robert Levinz can be found in a book called Loyal Martyrology, written by William Winstanley in 1665.