The harassment of Isaac Allen: puritanism, parochial politics and Prestwich's troubles during the first English civil war

This article traces the politics surrounding the ejection of Isaac Allen as rector of Prestwich in Lancashire during the mid sixteen-forties. The political crises of the late sixteen-thirties and the early sixteen-forties, combined with local difficulties, led to strained relations between Allen, a ‘moderate’ puritan, and some lay puritans within the parish. During the first English civil war, these opponents attempted to secure the rector's removal on the basis of accusations of royalist allegiance. The article examines Allen's reactions to these allegations, as he portrayed himself as a clergyman who craved peace and order.