The Perilous Journey of Oliver Cromwell's Head
The question, "Where is Cromwell's skull now?" is one that has fascinated historians and the morbidly curious for centuries. The story of Oliver Cromwell's head is a dramatic and rather gruesome tale, a testament to the intense political upheaval and the potent symbolism attached to powerful figures even after their death.
Oliver Cromwell, the architect of the English Republic and Lord Protector of the Commonwealth, died on September 3, 1658. His reign had been marked by significant religious and political reform, as well as the bloody suppression of rebellions in Ireland and Scotland. Following his death, he was given a state funeral and interred with great pomp in Westminster Abbey, a place reserved for monarchs and national heroes.
The Infamous Post-Mortem Trial
However, Cromwell's time in consecrated ground was short-lived. The monarchy was restored in 1660 under King Charles II, the son of the executed Charles I. The new king, understandably, harbored deep animosity towards those who had orchestrated his father's demise. In a move designed to symbolize the obliteration of the republican regime and to serve as a stark warning to any who might contemplate treason, Cromwell, along with other prominent figures of the Commonwealth like Henry Ireton and John Bradshaw, were posthumously "tried" for treason.
On January 30, 1661, precisely twelve years after the execution of Charles I, the bodies of Cromwell, Ireton, and Bradshaw were exhumed from Westminster Abbey. This was a brutal and symbolic act. They were then subjected to a public execution, a gruesome spectacle designed to humiliate them even in death. Their heads were severed from their bodies and then impaled on spikes outside the Houses of Parliament at Westminster. This act was intended to serve as a permanent reminder of the consequences of defying the restored monarchy.
The Head's Escape and Subsequent Travels
Remarkably, Cromwell's head did not remain a permanent fixture outside Parliament. The exact circumstances of its disappearance are shrouded in some mystery, but the prevailing account suggests that it was taken down sometime in the late 1660s or early 1670s, possibly during a severe storm. The head then entered a clandestine existence, passing through various hands.
One of the most widely accepted narratives is that the head was acquired by a collector named John Grevis. From there, it is believed to have been passed down through generations, eventually finding its way into the possession of a family in Shropshire, England. For many years, it was reportedly kept hidden in a chest.
Later, the skull is said to have been purchased by a showman named Bertram. He allegedly displayed it as a curiosity, further adding to its macabre legend. The skull's journey continued through various private collections, often changing hands and becoming the subject of much speculation and debate.
Where is Cromwell's Skull Now? The Current Believed Location
After its peregrinations through private hands and exhibitions, the skull of Oliver Cromwell is now believed to reside in the possession of Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge. This is according to scholarly research and widely accepted historical accounts.
The college acquired the skull in the early 20th century. The story goes that it was brought to the college by a descendant of the family who had kept it hidden for so long. The skull was then placed in a secret compartment within the college's Master's Lodge. For decades, its presence was a closely guarded secret, known only to a select few.
In 1960, the skull was finally revealed to the public and placed in a secure display case within the college. It is still housed there today, though it is not typically on public display to the general public. Access is usually granted for researchers and historians who have a legitimate need to study it.
Verification and Skepticism
While Sidney Sussex College is the most widely accepted location, it's important to acknowledge that the history of the skull is complex, and absolute certainty is difficult to achieve. Over the years, other claims and theories about the skull's whereabouts have emerged, and skepticism has been voiced.
Forensic analysis and historical research have been conducted to try and confirm the skull's authenticity. These studies have generally supported the claim that the skull is indeed that of Oliver Cromwell. However, the nature of its exhumation and subsequent dispersal makes it challenging to provide irrefutable, definitive proof.
The journey of Oliver Cromwell's skull is a remarkable and somewhat chilling chapter in English history. It highlights the enduring power of symbols and the lengths to which political animosity can extend, even beyond the grave. Today, its resting place, though known, remains a point of fascination, a tangible link to a tumultuous and transformative period in British history.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cromwell's Skull
How did Cromwell's head end up on display?
After his death and burial in Westminster Abbey, Cromwell's body was exhumed and his head was severed and impaled on a spike outside Parliament as a punishment for treason. It was later taken down and passed through various private collections before eventually coming to rest at Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge.
Why was Cromwell's head treated this way?
King Charles II, upon his restoration to the throne, wanted to make a strong statement against the republican regime that had overthrown and executed his father, Charles I. The posthumous trial and display of the heads of leading Parliamentarians like Cromwell served as a brutal demonstration of royal power and a warning against future rebellion.
Is there any doubt about the skull's authenticity?
While the skull at Sidney Sussex College is widely accepted by historians and has undergone some scientific analysis, the chaotic nature of its journey means that absolute, irrefutable proof is difficult to obtain. There have been occasional doubts and theories about its authenticity over the years, but the evidence strongly points to it being Cromwell's head.
Can the public see Cromwell's skull?
Generally, no. The skull is kept securely at Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge. While it was put on display for a period in the past and is available for academic research, it is not a regular public exhibit. Access is typically restricted to authorized individuals.
