Capture of Wakefield

Wakefield’s Capture: A Turning Point in the First English Civil War

The capture of Wakefield during the First English Civil War was a pivotal moment, showcasing the strategic brilliance and sheer determination of Parliamentarian forces against overwhelming odds.

A Brewing Storm

For seven months, the First English Civil War raged across the land. King Charles I had declared war on Parliament, setting the stage for a conflict that would reshape England’s political landscape. Yorkshire became a key battleground, with the Royalists attempting to establish control over the region.

The Royalist Party

Before the battle, Goring and other Royalist officers were hosting a party at Heath Hall, where they indulged in excessive drinking and failed to properly defend Wakefield. This misstep proved costly as Parliamentarian forces from Bradford, Leeds, and Halifax met at Howley Hall on May 20, 1643, before launching their attack the next day.

The Battle of Wakefield

Parliamentarian forces were initially outnumbered but managed to regain control of Leeds and Bradford. Reinforced with troops from Howley Hall, they had around 1500 men for the assault; 1000 infantry and 500 horse. Sir Thomas Fairfax led four troops of cavalry and overall command, while Sir Henry Foulis led three. William Fairfax and George Gifford split the infantry between them.

The Dawn Attack

At dawn, they attacked a Royalist outpost at Stanley and then arrived at Wakefield around two hours later. The town’s defenses were made up of hedges and barricades, which provided a level playing field for both sides. After a short meeting, Fairfax decided to continue with the assault.

The Assault

He split his force to attack from two directions and after two hours of fighting, Gifford’s infantry captured Warrengate and turned a cannon on the barricade. Thomas Fairfax led cavalry into the town, routing Royalist infantry. Goring was taken prisoner by Lieutenant Alrud after leading a counterattack.

The Aftermath

Fairfax nearly escaped capture when he found himself isolated in a side street. The remaining soldiers gave up their resistance, and by 9 am, the Parliamentarians held the town, capturing 1400 prisoners, 28 colours, and much-needed ammunition. According to Fairfax’s account of the siege, his force lost ‘not above seven men,’ but did admit that ‘many of our men were shot and wounded.’

Propaganda and Victory

As was typical during the Civil War, Parliamentarians published propaganda claiming their victory as the ‘work of God’ while casting Royalists as deceitful and ruinous. The Parliamentarians declared May 28 a day of thanksgiving for the victory.

The Strategic Impact

The primary objective of the attack was successful; an exchange was set up to recover men Fairfax had lost at Seacroft Moor, and the victory temporarily changed the balance of power in Yorkshire. This strategic move by Parliamentarian forces highlighted their ability to outmaneuver and overpower Royalist defenses despite being outnumbered.

Conclusion

The capture of Wakefield was a testament to the resilience and tactical acumen of Sir Thomas Fairfax’s forces. It not only secured a significant victory but also set the stage for further advancements in the conflict, ultimately contributing to the eventual triumph of Parliamentarian forces over King Charles I.