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
A motorist is killed on a Jersey level crossing
- When a car got stuck on a Jersey level crossing, it was sliced in half by an oncoming train, which also killed the driver.
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St Helier brought to a standstill by 600 mourners
- Artist Ralph Elliott died in 2009, aged 47. His funeral in December attended hundreds of mourners who brought St Helier to a standstill.
- Read more…
Occupation author Michael Ginns is born
- Michael Ginns was a prolific author and founder member of the Channel Islands Occupation Society. He died in February 2017.
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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…