Thomas Whitgrave facts for kids
Thomas Whitgrave was an important person in England during the 1600s. He was a Member of Parliament, which means he helped make laws for the country. He served in Parliament during a time called the Protectorate, when Oliver Cromwell was in charge. Cromwell even made him a knight in 1658. After the king returned to power, the knighthoods given by Cromwell were not recognized. Thomas Whitgrave was also considered for a special award called "Knight of the Royal Oak." This award was for people who strongly supported King Charles II when he was living in France.
Helping King Charles II Escape
After a big battle called the Battle of Worcester in 1651, King Charles II was in great danger. He needed to escape from England. Colonel Gifford helped the King go to a place called White Ladies Priory.
At White Ladies, five brothers named Penderell helped the King hide. One of the brothers, John Penderell, met a priest named Father Huddleston. Father Huddleston suggested that the King should go to Moseley Old Hall.
On the night of September 7, King Charles II arrived at Moseley Old Hall. He was welcomed by Thomas Whitgrave, who owned the house, and Thomas's mother, Alice Whitgrave. The Catholic priest of the house, John Huddleston, was also there.
They gave the King dry clothes, food, and a proper bed. This was the first good sleep he had since the battle on September 3. To keep the King safe, Father Huddleston stayed with him all the time. Thomas Whitgrave walked around the garden to watch for anyone approaching.
On September 9, soldiers from Parliament came to the house. They questioned Thomas Whitgrave. The King and Father Huddleston were hiding in a secret room called a priest hole. Thomas Whitgrave convinced the soldiers that he had not fought in the recent battle. (He had actually fought in an earlier battle called the Battle of Naseby in 1645, where he was captured.) The soldiers believed him and left without searching the house. This helped King Charles II stay hidden and eventually escape.
