Edwin Sandys

Edwin Sandys (1612 – December 1642)

Edwin Sandys was an English military figure who served as a Colonel in the Parliamentarian Army at the commencement of the First English Civil War. Educated at Wadham College, Oxford, and residing at the family estate in Northbourne, Kent, Sandys became notable for his direct involvement in actions against religious institutions.

Role in the First English Civil War

In July 1642, Sandys was appointed a deputy lieutenant of Kent by Parliament, tasked with raising troops. By August 1642, he was directed to identify and apprehend supporters of Charles I, and to collect arms and valuables to finance the Parliamentarian Army. His actions included the apprehension of Sir John Sackville, from whom a significant quantity of arms and goods were confiscated, and the confiscation of arms from prominent Royalists such as George Stewart and John Tufton. His troops also ransacked the homes of several prominent figures.

Iconoclasm and Cathedral Attacks

Sandys is particularly remembered for leading troops in the iconoclasm and looting of Canterbury Cathedral and Rochester Cathedral. These events, occurring in August 1642, marked some of the earliest attacks on cathedrals by parliamentary soldiers. In Canterbury, his troops were involved in the defilement of the cathedral, with accounts detailing the destruction of furnishings and images.

Military Engagements and Death

Sandys was a leader at the Battle of Powick Bridge on 23 September 1642, a disastrous engagement for the Parliamentarians. He was mortally wounded during this battle while leading a charge against Prince Rupert of the Rhine's forces, in what is considered the first skirmish of the Civil War. He did not succumb to his wounds until December 1642. Rumours of his regret for opposing the King were dispelled by a letter he wrote to Parliament prior to his death, which was read and accepted by them.