War Comes to Westmorland

From farmstead to power: the rise of Old Ben Browne

For over 400 years, the Browne family lived and worked at Townend. Though farmers by trade, their influence extended far beyond the fields. 'Old' Ben Browne was a determined social climber who rose to become High Constable of Kendal Ward between 1711 and 1732 - a role that placed him at the heart of local governance during a time of unrest and uncertainty.

Rising tensions: Westmorland on the brink of rebellion

The Jacobite Risings, fought between 1688 and 1745, were driven by attempts to restore the Stuart monarchy to the throne. In 1715, as tensions escalated across Britain, Westmorland - a historic county in north-west England until 1974 which included parts of the Lake District and Eden - found itself drawn into the conflict.

As High Constable, 'Old' Ben Browne carried heavy responsibilities: collecting taxes, maintaining order, overseeing roads and prisons, and – most critically – organising the local militia.

When rebellion threatened the region, Browne was tasked with issuing warrants to raise men for defence. His work was urgent and relentless. Letters from the time reveal the strain, describing how he was rarely home as he worked day and night, pursuing rebels and preparing for potential attack.

Imprisoned at the Castle

The Jacobite rising brought sudden violence and uncertainty to Kendal again in December 1745. As Bonnie Prince Charlie’s army passed through the busy market town, tensions quickly erupted into gunfire and chaos, leaving two men dead.

Among those caught up in the turmoil was George Browne (1688 – 1767)  who was visiting his brother when fighting broke out. Seized alongside six others, he was marched under guard to Carlisle Castle and held as a prisoner of the rebels. His capture highlights how quickly ordinary lives could be overturned by the conflict - while, just hours later, the King’s forces arrived in Kendal, too late to prevent their removal.