BattlefieldsDissolution of Reading Abbey and Abbot Cook Execution 1539
Tudor

Dissolution of Reading Abbey and Abbot Cook Execution 1539

1539
Berkshire, England
Also known as: Reading Abbey dissolution 1539 · Hugh Cook Faringdon executed 1539
Era
Tudor
Battle Type
Skirmish
Location
Berkshire, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Reading Abbey community
VS
Victor
Crown (Henry VIII and Cromwell)
Outcome
Abbot Hugh Cook Faringdon refused voluntary surrender; arrested and executed outside Reading Abbey gates; abbey dissolved
The Battle

History & Significance

Reading Abbey was one of England greatest Benedictine houses, burial place of King Henry I. Abbot Cook was the third of the three abbots executed in November 1539. He was hanged drawn and quartered at Reading outside his abbey in the presence of his monks. The triple executions of the three abbots on the same day was the most extreme act of force during the dissolution and ended organised monastic resistance.

Casualties & Losses

Abbot Cook executed

Forces Involved

Royal commission under Cromwell

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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