A political and religious mess led to a civil war from 1642-1649, between King Charles I, and his royalist Cavaliers and Oliver Cromwell, leading the parliamentary opponents the Roundheads.
Charles attempted to rule without parliament. By 1644 the Parliamentarians had gained the upper hand. Charles was defeated and executed in 1649.
Charles’ son was crowned King of Scotland but was forced into exile until Cromwell’s regime collapsed. Then, from 1660, he ruled as Charles II handling the difficult political situation well.
There were many skirmishes in the Midlands and Birmingham during the Civil War. There was a battle at Kings Norton in October 1642 and the Battle of Birmingham took place the following year. There were also skirmishes in what is now Bournville.
Parliamentarian Colonel Wray owned local grand residence, Bournbrook Hall, which was demolished early in the 20th century. Some of Cromwell’s men stayed there when there was fighting in the area.
Many pieces of furniture from this time, as well as armour, are on display at Selly Manor.
