HRH Prince Michael of Kent unveils memorial to Colonel Carlos at Royal Hospital Road
Some 90 descendants of Colonel William Carlos attended this event, of all ages, together with representatives from Royal Hospital Road. Carlos was credited with saving King Charles II by hiding him in the Boscobel Oak whilst Cromwell’s army were searching for him. King Charles II is recognised as the founder of Royal Hospital Chelsea, when in 1681 he issued a Royal Warrant for its foundation. Each Founder’s Day, as it was today, the statue is covered with oak leaves to remind us of his escape after the Battle of Worcester in 1651. The text of the King’s 1658 Grant of Arms to Colonel Carlos makes clear the King’s conviction that the Colonel’s actions at Boscobel were the main reason for his own, and thus the Royal Family’s, survival.
From an anthropological perspective it was lovely to see 90 people introducing each other to other parts of this extended family and find out exactly how they were related. Congratulations must go to John Doble (descendant) who organised much of today’s event.
To see more images from this event, please go to: http://clients.lucyelliottphotography.com/v/photos/80298twf
Images and Copyright: Lucy Elliott / Lucy Elliott Photography
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