15th December 1651
Elizabeth Castle is bombed into submission
After Charles I’s execution, the Prince of Wales, Charles II, sought refuge in Jersey, and the island proclaimed him king in Royal Square in 1649. Two years later, Parliamentary forces landed at St Ouen’s Bay and made such rapid progress across the island that most of the forces loyal to the king quickly surrendered.
The exception was the forces holed up in Elizabeth Castle, who managed to hold out for almost two months under heavy bombardment. Sir George Carteret, sheltering there, realised that his position was hopeless and surrendered to Parliamentary forces on 15 December on the agreement that he would leave the island. Charles II awarded him territory in America in recognition of his loyalty and the state of New Jersey was born.
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Other events that occured in December
Elizabeth Castle is bombed into submission
- Forces loyal to King Charles I held out for two months in Elizabeth Castle during the English Civil War, despite heavy bombardment.
- Read more…
Maurice Gould is deported to Europe
- Maurice Gould and two friends tried to escape from Jersey during the Occupation. However, they were caught and deported to Europe.
- Read more…
John Pinel stands trial for abduction
- John Pinel was tried for abduction after taking Susan Malzard into his home and threatening to shoot anyone who approached.
- Read more…
The States receives bad news about Queen’s Valley reservoir plan
- The company contracted to build the Queen's Valley reservoir was unable to complete the work, forcing the States to look elsewhere.
- Read more…