21/10/2026
Lest We Forget: 1746–2026
Today, 21 October 2026, marks the 280th anniversary of the ex*****on of six Jacobite soldiers at Brampton’s historic Capon Tree. On this day in 1746, six men who had supported the Jacobite cause and Bonnie Prince Charlie were hanged at the Capon Tree following the defeat of the Jacobite rising. Their deaths became part of Brampton’s history, and the memorial that stands near the site today ensures their story is not forgotten.
This morning, many gathered at the Capon Tree Memorial to remember those six men and reflect on a turbulent chapter of British history. The occasion was also a fitting reminder that the Jacobite cause brought together English and Scottish supporters, Catholics and Protestants alike, united not by nationality or religion, but by their loyalty to the Stuart cause.
The ceremony included a moving rendition of the traditional Scottish song Loch Lomond, beautifully sung by pupils from William Howard School. The song has long been associated with the Jacobite rising, and legend suggests that its words were written by a captured Jacobite prisoner. Although its author has never been established, the familiar words about taking the high road and the low road are traditionally interpreted as the parting of two companions, one returning home alive and the other returning to Scotland in spirit.
The sound of the bagpipes accompanied the laying of wreaths, adding a particularly poignant atmosphere to the ceremony. Wreaths were laid by John Nicholls, Honorary Life President of The Fifteen; Ian Wear, Vice Chair of The 1745 Association; Paul Blake, Chairman of the Royal British Legion Brampton Branch; Ms Jenni Errington, Chair of Brampton Parish Council; pupils and Cadets from William Howard School; and an officer of RAF Spadeadam. A representative of the Catholic Church and the Brampton Methodist minister also took part, leading the prayers together in a fitting expression of unity and remembrance.
Among those attending was a rather distinguished four-legged guest. Radclyffe the deerhound, the Jacobite Society’s mascot, stood proudly in his purple coat, complete with the traditional white Jacobite cockade, looking quite resplendent and adding a memorable presence to the occasion.
It was heartening to see such a good turnout in remembering an event that connects Brampton with a significant chapter of British history. 280 years have passed since those six men were hanged, and while the divisions of that time have long since given way to friendship and reconciliation, their story remains an important part of our town’s heritage.
Today was not about celebrating conflict, but about remembering lives lost, understanding our history and recognising the value of coming together in peace.
Lest we forget the six men of the Capon Tree.
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