Edward Pittway is best known as one of the leading Quakers in Worcestershire in the 1640s & 50s. As mayor of Evesham, he was a prominent member of society and was able to assist George Fox on his visit to the area in 1655. Fox came to Evesham after hearing rumours that Quakers in the surrounding areas were being imprisoned for their beliefs. Soon after, Pittway confirmed these rumours and informed Fox that the town's magistrates had ordered stocks to be erected in the event of his visit.
Pittway and Fox, among others, wrote a paper accusing the persecuting magistrates and applying to Cromwell for aid. Consequently, by putting his name to this paper and supporting George Fox, Pittway forfeited his position as mayor and was fined £20. An extract from one of the books of the Evesham Corporation states; “5th Oct 1655. This day Edward Pittway, the capital burgess, was removed therefrom; being indicted at the sessions for publishing a scandalous paper against the magistrates; for abusing Mr Robert Martin; for his rude behaviour in court and his evil behaviours towards Mr Recorder." Other reports suggest that the ‘rude behaviour’ referred to here was the failure of Pittway and others to remove their hats when in court.

A Brief History of Quakers
Quakers, also known as the Religious Society of Friends, is a religious group which began in England in the mid-17th century. Founded by George Fox, a dissenter against the Church of England, it avoided creeds and hierarchical structures focusing on the ‘inner light’ within everyone. Their four testimonies best summed up their beliefs: peace, integrity, simplicity, and equality. Quakers are notable for their silent worship with no sermons or singing.
The Legacy of Edward Pittway
Despite this setback and more imprisonments of Quakers over the following decades, their numbers grew, and Pittway’s house became a key meeting place. However, once numbers no longer allowed for this, meetings happened at the Red Lion and Northwick arms in Bengeworth. Pittway’s legacy continues today as the burial ground behind his house used by the Quakers during this period was bequeathed by him to the Society of Friends and remains in their possession. The grounds are still used to this day as a garden.
Monies, Medals & Militaria | Friday 1st November 2024
Viewing times (ID required):
London
Monday 21st October 10:00-16:00
Birmingham
Thursday 31st October 10:00-16:00
Virtual viewings are available by request. Virtual viewings are the ultimate personal shopping experience. Using Zoom, you can ask us whatever you need to know to buy with confidence. Find out more
Valuations
Our valuations are free, with no obligation to sell with us. Our experts will value your item with an estimate, so you can find out what it could achieve at auction.
The process is simple. You can fill in a form online or book an appointment to visit either of our offices in Birmingham or London. Alternatively, if you can’t attend virtual valuation appointments are also available.
Find what you’re looking for
Make sure you don’t miss finding that special something by signing up to our email alerts. You’ll be the first to know when catalogues become available, receive invitations to special events and preview the hottest lots from our auctions, plus much more.
Why not use our free personal shopping service? Sign up for lot alerts and tell us exactly what you are looking for. Each time we upload a catalogue, we search for your keywords and email you lots matching your interests. Your personalised email will include images, lot descriptions and auction details.
Sally Oliver | MA (Hons), RNS
