BattlefieldsSawley Abbey Reoccupation and Dissolution 1536-1537
Tudor

Sawley Abbey Reoccupation and Dissolution 1536-1537

1536–1537
Yorkshire West Riding, England
Also known as: Sawley Abbey restoration 1536 · Sawley rebel monastery 1536
Era
Tudor
Battle Type
Siege
Location
Yorkshire West Riding, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Sawley Abbey community and rebels
VS
Victor
Crown (Henry VIII)
Outcome
Sawley dissolved in spring 1536; rebels reinstated the monks during Pilgrimage; Henry VIII demanded its immediate re-dissolution; Abbot and monks arrested
The Battle

History & Significance

Sawley Abbey was dissolved in May 1536. During the Pilgrimage of Grace the rebels reinstated the monks as a statement of defiance. Henry VIII wrote furiously demanding Sawley be dissolved again and the monks responsible hanged. It became a test case for the principle that religious houses could not be restored by mob action. The abbot was subsequently executed.

Casualties & Losses

Abbot and several monks executed

Forces Involved

Rebel commons; royal dissolution commission

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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