Uncovering Warrington’s Forgotten Civil War Battle: A Weekend Revival
A major battle that played a crucial role in the English Civil War will be commemorated during an exciting weekend in Winwick. St. Oswald’s Church, located in the village, will host its Heritage Weekend on September 7 and 8, featuring a re-enactment of the Battle of Winwick that took place on August 19, 1648. This historic battle, fought on farm land bordering the church, saw the deaths of 1,000 Scottish soldiers and had significant implications for the outcome of the Civil War.
The Battle of Winwick, between invading Scottish troops and Oliver Cromwell’s army, is an event of national significance that is often overlooked in historical narratives. It was one of the two major battles fought in the northwest during the Civil War, with the other occurring in Preston just two days prior. The defeat of the Scottish forces at these battles marked the end of the war and resulted in a final defeat for the supporters of King Charles I, who was later executed.
The upcoming re-enactment event at St. Oswald’s Church will provide a unique opportunity to gain insight into the experiences of the soldiers involved in the Battle of Winwick. Members of the Battle of Winwick Society will be dressed in authentic costumes, recreating the lifestyle and conditions endured by the Scottish troops. The Scottish army, led by the Duke of Hamilton, consisted of tough but untrained fighters known as “the Engagers,” who had marched from Scotland to join the battle at Preston. Following their defeat, the remaining Scottish forces attempted to regroup and head south to join the King’s troops in North Wales.
However, the Scottish forces became divided during their journey, with the mounted cavalry continuing on to Warrington while the foot soldiers remained to confront Cromwell’s army at Winwick. The battle that ensued on the farmland between Winwick and Newton was fierce, with Cromwell’s well-trained troops eventually overpowering the exhausted Scottish soldiers. The brutal fighting, which took place in difficult conditions due to heavy rainfall, resulted in the deaths of 1,000 Scots, many of whom were farmers and laborers. The survivors sought refuge at St. Oswald’s Church, where many were captured and held as prisoners.
Philip LePinnet, a member of the Winwick Battle Society, emphasized the significance of the Battle of Winwick in bringing the Civil War to a close. Through the re-enactment, the society aims to highlight the importance of the battle and provide a glimpse into the lives of the Scottish soldiers and Cromwell’s troops during that tumultuous time. The event will offer a perspective on the common soldiers and civilians who were caught up in the conflict, shedding light on a lesser-known chapter of the Civil War.
While the Battle of Preston has received more attention in historical accounts, the Battle of Winwick remains relatively obscure. According to LePinnet, Oliver Cromwell himself made no distinction between the two battles, referring to them both as equally significant in bringing about the end of the war. The lack of recognition for the Battle of Winwick underscores the importance of events like the upcoming re-enactment in raising awareness of this pivotal moment in history.
John Watkin, St. Oswald’s church warden, highlighted the historical significance of the church, which dates back to the 13th century and has played a central role in the village’s history. The church was damaged by Cromwell’s troops during the Civil War but was gradually restored in the years that followed. The Heritage Weekend at St. Oswald’s will offer visitors a chance to step back in time and learn more about the soldiers and civilians who were part of the Battle of Winwick.
Today, the site of the Battle of Winwick, also known as the Battle of Red Bank, is recognized as one of the few surviving battlefields from the English Civil War in a well-preserved state. Historic England added it to their register of Historic Battlefields in 2018, acknowledging its importance in the country’s history. The upcoming Heritage Weekend event, which is free to attend, will feature an introductory talk by the Battle of Winwick Society as well as a re-enactment of the battle on September 7.
In conclusion, the Battle of Winwick stands as a testament to the sacrifices made by soldiers on both sides of the English Civil War. The upcoming Heritage Weekend event at St. Oswald’s Church offers a unique opportunity to learn more about this forgotten battle and the impact it had on the course of history. By commemorating the Battle of Winwick, we honor the bravery and resilience of those who fought and died in the name of their beliefs, ensuring that their stories are not lost to time.