Place Name
Hugh or Hubert de Burgh (sometime around 1170 – 1243) took sanctuary in Merton Priory, having incurred the displeasure of King Henry III. A prominent nobleman and statesman who served under Kings John and Henry III, de Burgh played a key role in the political and military affairs of the kingdom during a turbulent period. De Burgh’s rise to power began under King John, who entrusted him with important duties, including commanding Dover Castle, a critical stronghold during the king’s conflict with rebelling barons and the French prince, Louis. After John’s death in 1216, de Burgh continued to serve under the young Henry, becoming one of the kingdom’s most influential figures. Among his notable achievements Hubert, as Constable of Dover Castle, defeated a French invasion fleet off Dover in 1217. He was appointed Chief Justiciar, effectively acting as the king’s deputy and head of the administration. Despite his significant influence, de Burgh eventually incurred the king’s displeasure. Several factors are said to have contributed to his downfall, including political rivalries and accusations of abusing his power. He was blamed for various administrative failings and for his handling of royal finances, which led to growing dissatisfaction among the nobility and the court. De Burgh’s enemies at court spread rumours and conspired against him, further weakening his position. By 1232, de Burgh was stripped of his offices and possessions. Facing arrest, he fled to Merton Priory, seeking sanctuary within the church (at the time, religious institutions provided protection to individuals fleeing legal or royal retribution). The King, however, instructed that he be seized and 20,000 armed Londoners subsequently converged on Merton to help carry out the orders. Fortunately, the Archbishop of Dublin prevailed on the King to disperse them. Hubert then made for his home at Bury St Edmunds. But his troubles were far from over. The King, was persuaded to have him seized en route at Brentwood. Hubert received warning of this and sought sanctuary at the church of St Thomas a Becket, but was forcibly apprehended and taken to the Tower of London. This violation of sanctuary raised such a storm that he was returned to the church in Brentwood, but was starved out after a 40 day siege. He was taken as captive to Devizes castle where after several months and adventures he was eventually “admitted to the benefit of a full pardon” in 1234, albeit without any of the power and influence he once welded. He spent his remaining years in relative obscurity until his death. His descendants exist today. All Saints Road, running parallel to Deburgh Road, was originally called Hubert Road. Many of the streets around All Saints Church are named after people connected with Merton Priory.
