Sieges of Taunton

The Strategic Siege of Taunton

Imagine a town caught in the crossfire of history, its fate hanging by a thread during the tumultuous times of the First English Civil War. The sieges of Taunton were not just battles but pivotal moments that shaped the course of this conflict. Could you ever imagine the pressure felt by Robert Blake as he defended Taunton against three separate sieges?

The First Siege: A Test of Will and Defense

Was it not a daunting task for Edmund Wyndham to lay siege to Taunton in September 1644? With the town’s strategic importance as a key roadblock from Bristol to Devon, Blake’s defenses were put to their ultimate test. The initial assaults by Wyndham’s forces drove Blake and his troops back into Taunton Castle, but the blockade was conducted from afar, focusing on starving out the garrison. It wasn’t until December 14 that relief finally came.

The Second Siege: A Battle of Wits

Blake established a network of earthen defenses in anticipation of the second siege, which began under Sir Richard Grenville and later Sir Ralph Hopton. The Royalists faced intense fighting but eventually retreated when confronted by a Parliamentarian relief army led by Thomas Fairfax. Could you imagine the tension as both sides prepared for battle?

The Third Siege: A Lax Defense

Lord Goring renewed the blockade in mid-May, but his efforts were lax and ineffective. Provisions could still enter the town, diminishing its effectiveness. Despite this, Thomas Fairfax marched to relieve Taunton on July 9, securing a Parliamentarian victory. The town’s loyalty had been tested, with many residents initially supporting the Royalists due to their Puritan beliefs.

The Capture and Defense of Taunton

In mid-1644, Robert Devereux, 3rd Earl of Essex, moved through Dorset, retaking towns like Weymouth. The town was then abandoned, leaving only a small Parliamentarian garrison to defend the castle. Colonel Sir Robert Pye captured Taunton on July 8, surrounding the castle and forcing Major William Reeve’s Royalist forces to surrender. Blake took command of the town shortly after.

The Three Sieges: A Tale of Fortitude

Each siege brought its own challenges and strategies. From Wyndham’s initial assault, through Grenville and Hopton’s efforts, to Goring’s final attempt, each commander had their unique approach. The town was besieged three times from September 1644 to July 1645, with the Parliamentarians holding strong despite the odds.

Over half to two-thirds of Taunton was destroyed during these sieges, but compensation payouts were made to the town and its residents. Blake’s efforts in defending Taunton earned him a reward of £500. The sieges of Taunton remain a testament to the resilience and strategic importance of this historic town.

The sieges of Taunton were more than just military engagements; they were a battle for the soul and future of this town. In the end, it was the determination and strategic brilliance of Robert Blake that secured Taunton’s place in history as a resilient bastion against the forces of war.