Ambrose Rookwood

Ambrose Rookwood: A Man of Many Hats

Imagine a man whose life was as multifaceted as a chessboard, with each square representing a different chapter in his story. Ambrose Rookwood (c. 1578 – 31 January 1606) was such a man, born into a wealthy Catholic family and educated by Jesuits in Flanders. His life took unexpected turns, from being a horse-breeder to becoming a key figure in the infamous Gunpowder Plot of 1605.

Was Rookwood’s involvement with the plot a mere coincidence, or was it part of a larger web of conspiracies? Born into the Tyrwhitt family, a prominent Roman Catholic household, he inherited Coldham Hall after his father’s death in 1600. His journey to becoming a horse-breeder and later joining the Earl of Essex’s rebellion against the government laid the groundwork for his eventual involvement with Robert Catesby.

Could it be that Rookwood was simply following the path set by those around him, or did he have his own reasons for joining the Gunpowder Plot? He joined Catesby and planned to incite a rebellion. But fate had other plans; Guy Fawkes’ arrest foiled their scheme.

Convicted of treason, Rookwood faced the gruesome execution of being hanged, drawn, and quartered on 31 January 1606. His story is one of intrigue, betrayal, and ultimate sacrifice. But who was this man behind the historical records? Let’s delve deeper into his life.

The Plot Thickens

John Rookwood, Ambrose’s father, inherited Coldham Hall after his death in 1600. This inheritance set the stage for young Ambrose to join the Earl of Essex’s rebellion against the government. Later, he was recruited by Robert Catesby into the Gunpowder Plot. His role as a horse-breeder and provider of horses for the Midlands uprising is well-documented.

But Rookwood wasn’t just about horses; he had a knack for keeping secrets. He rented a house near Stratford-upon-Avon, taking with him Catholic symbols like chalices and praying beads. On 4 November, he received a modified sword from John Craddock, which probably cost over £20. This was the plot thickening moment that would change his life forever.

When Guy Fawkes was arrested at the House of Lords, Rookwood knew it was time to act. He left London with his fellow conspirators on horseback, covering over 30 miles in two hours. The group met Everard Digby and continued their journey, collecting stored weapons and trying to expand their number.

But not everyone was willing to join the cause. Father Garnet wrote a letter imploring Catesby to stop the ‘wicked actions.’ Rookwood confessed his sins and took the sacrament with the rest of the group. The group rode through pouring rain, helped themselves to arms and money, and reached Holbeche House.

The Final Stand

A stray spark landed on gunpowder, causing a fire that injured Rookwood and Catesby. Several conspirators escaped, but Rookwood, Catesby, Wright brothers, Percy, and Grant stayed behind. The house was surrounded by government men who killed several conspirators, including John and Christopher Wright.

Catesby, Percy, and others were reportedly killed by a single musket ball. Rookwood was captured and taken to the Tower of London with others. He watched as his fellow conspirators Digby, Wintour, Grant, and Bates were hanged, drawn, and quartered three days later.

On 27 January 1606, Rookwood and others were arraigned in Westminster Hall. All except Digby pleaded ‘Not Guilty.’ Defending himself, Rookwood claimed he was enlisted into the plot through friendship with Catesby. His pleas were in vain; he was sentenced to death.

Dragged by horse from the Tower of London to the Old Palace Yard at Westminster, Rookwood kept his eyes closed, praying throughout the journey. He delivered a short speech asking God to bless the king and queen before suffering his sentence.

The Legacy of Ambrose Rookwood

Was Rookwood a hero or a villain? A man of principle or a traitor? His story is one of complex motivations, loyalty, and ultimate sacrifice. The Gunpowder Plot remains a significant event in English history, and Rookwood’s role within it adds layers to the narrative.

As we reflect on his life, we can’t help but wonder: what would have happened if he had chosen a different path? Would history be written differently? One thing is certain; Ambrose Rookwood’s story continues to captivate and intrigue us, much like a well-crafted mystery novel.

So, as we remember the Gunpowder Plot, let us not forget the man behind the plot—Ambrose Rookwood. His life was a testament to the complexities of human nature and the choices that shape our destinies.