John Morris (soldier)

During the Irish rebellion of 1641 he was appointed sergeant-major in the regiment commanded by Sir Francis Willoughby, and major by commission from the Earl of Ormonde (2 June 1642).

After the storming of Ross Castle, though wounded, he rallied some English troops that were retreating before General Preston, and charged the enemy.

[3] The manor house, Hague Hall was acquired by Nathaniel Burkead Esq around 1620[4] the area must have been the location of more buildings as John Morris and his family were not the sole inhabitants.

Edward Watson inherited the manor in 1649 from his father-in-law Nathaniel Birkhead,[4] showing that Morris was simply an inhabitant in the area.

From the siege of Sandal Castle in 1645 Morris knew Colonel Robert Overton, who had since been made governor of Pontefract.

But in November 1647 Overton was transferred to the governorship of Kingston upon Hull, and Morris had little connection with Cotterell, who succeeded him at Pontefract.

Thomas Paulden), each with four men carrying beds and with three others bringing money as though to compound for theirs, gained admission to the castle on 3 June.

Colonel Bonivent who had been governor of Sandal Castle in 1644-5 was at first credited with the exploit; and Morris allowed Sir John Digby, who came from Nottingham, to assume nominal command.

General John Lambert, who was in command, insisted upon having six persons, whom he refused to name, excepted from mercy, and of these Morris was one.

The excepted officers having liberty to make their escape if they could, Morris charged through the enemy's army, and with Cornet Michael Blackborne got away into Lancashire.

He defended himself, and was condemned to death as a traitor; vain efforts were made to save him, even by officers of the parliamentary army.