Bloody Mary or Tudor Trailblazer?
- English Heritage reveals the fascinating story of England’s first Queen -
English Heritage has today unveiled a new exhibition that tells the story of the rise to power of Mary, England’s first ruling Queen. The exhibition is part of a series of new developments at Framlingham Castle, one of England’s most historically important, yet lesser-known castles. The 800 year old castle, situated in the market town of Framlingham, Suffolk, was the site at which Henry VIII’s daughter, Mary Tudor, rallied her supporters and was named the first ever ruling Queen of England in 1553.
Launched today by Lord Bruce-Lockhart, Chairman of English Heritage and Dr Anna Whitelock, one of the country’s leading experts on Tudor history, the new developments include an exhibition that tells the fascinating tale of the Castle’s long and colourful history. Visitors will discover another side to the infamous ‘Bloody Mary’ than is painted by the history books.
Lord Bruce-Lockhart, Chairman of English Heritage, said: “As the setting for some of the most dramatic events in English history, this is the first time that Framlingham Castle has really been given the prominence that it deserves. The exhibition shows Mary in a new light, and English Heritage is delighted to be able to present this very latest historical research.”
Dr Anna Whitelock, whose book on Mary Tudor will be published in the spring of 2009, said: “Mary is possibly the most misunderstood and overlooked monarch in England’s history – and yet she is one of the most important. As the first ever crowned ruling Queen of England, her reign marked a significant breakthrough in the traditionally male-dominated society of the 16th century.
“She was a courageous person who proved that women could rule as kings, and she defended the Tudor line of succession, making possible her sister Elizabeth’s own much celebrated rule. Mary was truly the ‘Tudor Trailblazer’, and it’s fantastic that English Heritage is helping to restore her reputation here at Framlingham Castle.
“This castle was at the centre of her struggle for the throne against her distant cousin Lady Jane Grey – a fact that many people do not realise. And she was supported there by both Protestants and Catholics, not just Catholics as generally assumed,” Dr Whitelock continued. “English Heritage’s new exhibition puts the story of the Castle and its place in Mary’s dramatic accession to the throne firmly on the map. Nothing brings history more to life than being able to visit the place where these momentous events actually occurred.”
The exhibition, part of a number of new developments intended to enhance the visitor experience, chronicles the castle’s heritage, from its origins as a baronial stronghold, to its role in the Mary Tudor story, to the building of the 17th-century poor house.
Celia Deeley, English Heritage’s Visitor Operations Director said: “Framlingham is a fascinating property, full of stories featuring everyone from the first Queen of England to families consigned to the poor house. The new family-friendly audio tours and exhibition will enable visitors of all ages to immerse themselves in tales from the past. Whether you’re a child studying the Tudors at school, a local resident who wants to know more about Framlingham’s proud history, or a family simply wanting a great day out with plenty of interesting discoveries along the way, Framlingham has something for everyone.”
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