On the latest episode of the Mail’s “Queens, Kings and Dastardly Things” podcast, royal biographer Robert Hardman and historian Kate Williams delve into the audacious exploits of Colonel Thomas Blood, who famously attempted to steal the Crown Jewels in 1671. This episode marks the beginning of a three-part series exploring the stories of notorious criminals who targeted the priceless treasures of the British monarchy.

The Crown Jewels, a collection of ceremonial regalia integral to the coronation of new monarchs, are described as one of the British monarchy’s most prized possessions. Currently housed at the Tower of London for public viewing, they include iconic items such as St. Edward’s Crown, composed of five pounds of solid gold, and The Sovereign’s Sceptre, which is adorned with the Great Star of Africa—reportedly the largest clear-cut diamond in existence. Estimates of the jewels’ worth range between £3 billion to £5 billion, but their true value is challenging to ascertain due to their historical and cultural significance.

Much of the current Crown Jewels collection emerged after the restoration of the monarchy in 1660. Following the English Civil War, Thomas Cromwell famously sought to eliminate the earlier regalia, viewing them as an ostentatious display of wealth that clashed with his rigid religious convictions. Upon the monarchy’s restoration, Charles II unveiled a new set of jewels for his coronation in 1661, reigniting the monarchy’s ceremonial traditions and status.

Colonel Blood, born in Ireland in 1618, was a soldier who initially supported the monarchist cause, later switching allegiances to the roundheads under Cromwell. His contentious past earned him substantial land holdings, yet the restoration of Charles II saw him stripped of his estate. This life-altering setback spurred Blood towards rebellion; he became embroiled in a failed plot to seize power in Ireland, resulting in a wanted man status. Robert Hardman describes him as a “Scarlett Pimpernel figure,” suggesting a man shrouded in daring mystery.

In May 1671, Blood resurfaced in London, adopting the guise of a vicar with a companion posing as his wife. His cunning plan led him to befriend Talbot Edwards, the 77-year-old guardian of the Crown Jewels. Engaging Edwards in discussions about a potential marriage between his fictitious nephew and the guardian’s unmarried daughter, Blood leveraged this friendship to access the treasures. The audacious heist unfolded when Blood’s gang attacked Edwards, incapacitating him with a mallet while they quickly looted the jewels.

Historian Kate Williams recounts the comical and bold nature of the heist, describing one gang member stuffing a golden orb down his trousers, while Blood desperately attempted to break St. Edward’s Crown. Though he narrowly escaped with the loot, Blood’s swift getaway was foiled when he was apprehended by Edwards’ son.

In a surprising twist of fate, Blood, once imprisoned for his crime, sought an audience with Charles II, where he managed to persuade the king to grant him a pardon. Historians speculate that Blood’s perception as a folk hero, who was seen as a champion of the Irish people, may have played a significant role in influencing the king’s decision. Hardman notes that this act of clemency transformed Blood into a celebrated rogue figure until his death in 1680.

Williams adds that even in death, Blood’s legend persisted; many were compelled to exhume his body to confirm his passing due to the myriad of tales surrounding his life and escapades. While Blood was known for his astounding resilience and cunning, history ultimately tells that he, like all mortals, could not escape death—an irony that solidifies his enduring legend.

For those intrigued by historical tales of audacity and intrigue, the podcast invites listeners to explore more stories in the upcoming episodes released every Thursday.

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Source: Noah Wire Services