In search of the real John Hampden.......

.........in this case John Hampden IV who lived at Hampden House  Buckinghamshire & was a well respected landowner. The Hampdens had lived there since the time of the Norman Conquest and had always been pillars of society. 

Our John Hampden was one of the men instrumental in causing the English Civil War to break out when he defied Charles I by refusing to pay Ship money levied at 20 shillings. He suggested that Parliament should decide on who should pay & who should not, and the following events led to Charles I being sent to the Tower. 

War broke out between Royalists & Parliamentarians and many battles were fought. Unfortunately John was mortally wounded at the Battle of Chalgrove Field when he & his Greencoats were ambushed by Prince Rupert (Son of Charles I). He was taken to Thame where he died of his wounds on 24 June 1643. 

The picture shows a Monument to his memory which is located high in the Chilterns overlooking his lands, prior to finding this I had visited the Church of St Mary Magdalene which lies opposite Hampden House. Unfortunately the church was locked but I will return another day when I can gain access as there is a lovely monument inside where John Hampden is buried.

The house which is a fine looking gothic castellated building is visible from the church and is nowadays in private hands. However if you want a fancy place to get married then this could be the ideal location as the Grand Hall can seat 250.

A fine day...hip still painful.

My extra shot shows Hampden House from the church. 
The house was made (in)famous when 22 Hammer House of Horror films were made here...

More info on John Hampden below:

http://www.johnhampden.org/