National Trust Audio

Letter from Old Ben to Lady Otway, December 1715 15.06.2026 2:16 ↓

Old Ben Browne worked for local dignitary, Lady Otway, collecting rents and liaising with tenants. In this letter, he tells her he has buried some of her money in the garden, due to fear of being robbed by Jacobite rebels.

Draft Letter from Elizabeth to George Browne, undated 1715 15.06.2026 1:25 ↓

Old Ben Browne’s wife, Elizabeth, wrote this letter to her stepson, George, sharing her fears for his father as he responds to the threat of Jacobite rebels – but also how worried they both are due his lack of letters home.

Imprisoned in Carlisle, December 1745 15.06.2026 3:51 ↓

George Browne and six other men were taken prisoner by Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobites on their retreat through Kendal in 1745. In this letter, they petition the Jacobite Governor of the castle at Carlisle for their liberty.