English Heritage Seeks Descendants of Bayham Abbey Uprising
Five centuries ago, a group of determined craftspeople-including a brewer, a tailor, and a shoemaker-stood against the Tudor regime to protect their local monastery.Now,English Heritage is reaching out to anyone who believes they might be a descendant of those involved in the Bayham Abbey uprising against Cardinal Thomas Wolsey’s closure of the abbey.
English Heritage plans to gather descendants for a commemorative event this summer, marking the anniversary of the uprising that occurred on June 4, 1525. this event aims to honor the courage of those who resisted the early stages of religious reform in England.
A Prelude to Religious Reform
Michael Carter, an English Heritage historian, characterizes the Bayham Abbey uprising as a moment of Tudor high drama.
He emphasizes its significance as a precursor to the sweeping changes brought about by Henry VIII.
It is a fascinating precursor to Henry VIII’s religious reforms – a harbinger not only of the dissolution of the monasteries 10 years later but also of the Pilgrimage of Grace, a major revolt against the reforms in the north of England in 1536 and 1537.
Michael Carter, English Heritage Historian
In 1525, Bayham Abbey was deeply intertwined with the religious and social fabric of the local community.The canons were often local men, and their prayers were highly valued. Furthermore, a bed believed to have been slept in by St.Richard of Chichester was preserved at the abbey as a relic, believed to possess miraculous powers.
Did You Know?
The dissolution of the monasteries was a series of administrative and legal processes between 1536 and 1541, during which Henry VIII confiscated the assets and disbanded religious houses in England, Wales, and Ireland.
More Than Just Spiritual Concerns
The uprising was likely fueled by more than just religious fervor. Bayham Abbey was a notable employer in the region, and its closure threatened the livelihoods of many tradespeople.
Carter notes, whilst they will undoubtedly have feared the loss of their spiritual leaders, their loss of income would have been of equal concern.
The historian also expressed concern for the rebels’ fate, stating, this act of rebellion could have cost them their lives. We are keen to remember and celebrate these brave men.
The Events of June 4, 1525
Cardinal Wolsey, in anticipation of the larger dissolution, began suppressing smaller monasteries to fund his new colleges at Oxford and Ipswich. Bayham Abbey, situated on the Kent/Sussex border, was among the targeted institutions, leading to its closure in 1525.
On June 4, 1525, over 100 local men, faces painted and armed with longbows, crossbows, swords, and clubs, gathered at the abbey. They stormed the gatehouse and briefly reinstated the monastic community. Though, the canons were removed again a week later, and 31 men were indicted by the crown for rioting. English Heritage is now seeking the descendants of these individuals.
Notable Figures in the Uprising
- Thomas godfowle, a laborer
- William Lamkyn, a tailor
- john Muge, a fuller (cloth worker)
- William Mepam, a weaver
- John Whitesyde, senior and junior (possibly father and son)
The fate of moast of these men remains unclear. Though, Abbot William Gale, who was among those indicted, later headed an abbey in Buckinghamshire until its suppression in 1536.
Bayham Abbey Today
Founded around 1208, bayham Abbey stands today as a picturesque ruin constructed from golden sandstone. Significant portions of the church, gatehouse, and chapter house still remain.
Pro tip
Genealogy websites and historical records can be valuable resources for tracing your family history. Start with basic information and gradually expand your search.
Get Involved
The full list of participants in the uprising is available on the English Heritage website. Anyone who believes they might potentially be connected to these rebels is encouraged to contact English Heritage via email at press@english-heritage.org.uk.
