Leeds Library Uncovers 17th-Century Royal Rescue Attempt

Historic annotations reveal King Charles I’s declined escape plan

Leeds Central Library has brought to light a previously little-known episode from the English Civil War, involving an audacious attempt to rescue King Charles I from captivity in the city. The story, found in handwritten notes within a rare 18th-century book, details a plan to disguise the imprisoned monarch in women’s clothing to facilitate his escape from Red Hall in 1647.

The discovery in Ducatus Leodiensis

The account is recorded in the margins of Ducatus Leodiensis, a comprehensive historical work on Leeds by Ralph Thoresby, first published in 1715. The annotations were made by Thomas Wilson, a contemporary antiquarian, and are believed to be the earliest written record of this particular event.

According to the notes, Mrs Crosby, a servant to wool merchant Thomas Metcalf, offered to help King Charles I escape by disguising him in women’s attire. The plan involved Mrs Crosby leading the king out through a garden door on Lands Lane under cover of darkness, allowing him to flee Leeds and his captors.

King Charles I declined the offer but showed his gratitude by giving Mrs Crosby his garter, instructing her to pass it on to his son if he ever ascended the throne. After the execution of Charles I in 1649, his son Charles II later received the garter from Mrs Crosby. Subsequently, her husband was appointed High Bailiff of Yorkshire, an esteemed position.

Significance of the Ducatus Leodiensis

Ducatus Leodiensis; or the Topography of the antient and populous Town and Parish of Leedes and parts adjacent in the West Riding of the County of York remains one of the most detailed early records of Leeds. The book includes family trees, heraldic symbols, and illustrations of historic sites such as Kirkstall Abbey.

Ralph Thoresby, regarded as Leeds’ first historian, dedicated much of his life to documenting the city’s history, ensuring many stories and events were preserved. His work has inspired subsequent historians, including William Boyne, whose extensive 19th-century history of Leeds is also held in the library’s collection.

Library display and ongoing preservation

The annotated edition of Ducatus Leodiensis is on display in the local and family history section of Leeds Central Library until early January. The library continues to maintain an extensive archive of the city’s heritage for public access and research.

• Rare 18th-century edition of Ducatus Leodiensis features unique historical annotations
• Details a declined plan to rescue King Charles I from Leeds captivity in 1647
• Mrs Crosby, a servant, offered to disguise the king in women’s clothing
• King Charles I gave Mrs Crosby his garter as a token of thanks
• Mrs Crosby later presented the garter to King Charles II
• Her husband was appointed High Bailiff of Yorkshire as a reward
• The book is a key early record of Leeds history, inspiring later historians

For more information on Leeds Central Library, including opening hours and facilities, visit Leeds Central Library.