17th February 1680
Man convicted of killing Charles I dies in Elizabeth Castle
James Temple had been one of the judges in the trial of Charles I, and his was one of the 59 signatures on the king’s death warrant. When the monarchy was restored following Cromwell’s death, he tried to leave the country, but was captured on his way to Ireland.
Despite his signature appearing on the king’s death warrant, he claimed at his own trial that he had begged Cromwell to spare the king’s life. Thus, Temple’s life was spared in return and he was sent to Jersey to be detained, first at Mont Orgueil, and latterly at Elizabeth Castle, where he died, 31 years to the day after Charles II had been declared king less than a mile away.
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Other events that occured in February
Dean of Jersey killed in Mont Orgueil escape attempt
- The Dean of Jersey died when he tried to escape from Mont Orgueil castle by climbing down a rope of knotted bed sheets.
- Read more…
Joshua Falle, Jurat of the Royal Court, dies
- Joshua Falle gave almost 40 years' service to the Jersey States, at various times being elected as a Deputy and a Jurat.
- Read more…
Lillie Langtry is buried in her parents’ tomb
- Jersey-born Lillie Langtry was a true celebrity, dating royals and starring on the stage, but she never forgot her roots.
- Read more…
States treasurer is charged with embezzlement
- Jersey States treasurer was charged with embezzlement following the collapse of the Jersey Banking Company in 1886.
- Read more…
