Born in Underbarrow
Born in the rural village of Underbarrow, Westmorland, in the north of England — a region that would become the heartland of early Quakerism.
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Edward Burrough
1634–1663 · Underbarrow, Westmorland, England
First Publisher of Truth, Voice of the Movement
"We are not for names, nor men, nor titles of Government, nor are we for this party nor against the other... but we are for justice and mercy and truth and peace and true freedom." — Edward Burrough
Life & Ministry
Convinced by George Fox
At just eighteen years old, Burrough heard Fox preach and was immediately convinced. He abandoned his former religious associations and became a traveling minister.
Northern Ministry
Burrough traveled extensively through northern England with Francis Howgill, preaching in markets, churches, and fields. The two became inseparable companions in ministry.
Sent to London
Fox dispatched Burrough and Howgill to London as part of the 'Valiant Sixty' — the first wave of Quaker missionaries. Burrough's eloquence quickly made him the movement's public voice in the capital.
London Ministry & Public Debates
Burrough wrote prolifically, defended Friends in public debates, and appealed directly to Oliver Cromwell and Parliament for religious liberty.
Restoration & Renewed Persecution
The restoration of Charles II brought renewed persecution of dissenters. Burrough's bold public ministry made him a target.
Imprisoned in Newgate
Arrested under the Quaker Act, Burrough was thrown into the notoriously overcrowded Newgate prison — conditions that would prove fatal.
Dies in Newgate Prison
Edward Burrough died in Newgate prison on February 14, 1663, at just twenty-nine years old. Fox mourned him as one who had 'died in the work of the ministry.'
Connections & Relationships
George Fox
Mentor & ConvincerFox convinced the young Burrough in 1652 and dispatched him as one of the first Publishers of Truth. Fox later wrote a moving memorial to Burrough's courage and sacrifice.
James Nayler
Fellow MinisterBurrough and Nayler were powerful contemporaries in the early movement. Both were brilliant preachers who suffered greatly for their convictions.
Margaret Fell
Sheltered at SwarthmoreMargaret Fell and Swarthmore Hall provided a base of support for Burrough's traveling ministry, as it did for many of the first Publishers of Truth.
Available Works
Complete Works, Volumes 1–3
The first three volumes of Burrough's collected writings — powerful defenses of Quakerism, appeals to rulers, and pastoral letters.
Complete Works, Volumes 4–7
The remaining volumes of Burrough's writings, currently in preparation.