Wednesday, April 22 – 1914
Rupert-lane Barracks, the site of which has lately been converted into a pleasure ground, used to serve by reason of its military associations as a memorial of one of the most romantic and stirring episodes in Liverpool history.
Of this a more direct heritage and relic formerly existed in Prince Rupert’s Cottage, in Everton-brow, which was demolished just sixty-nine years ago today. In this modest dwelling, which stood in Everton Village, then quite distinct from Liverpool, Prince Rupert established his headquarters in 1644, when, after having successively relieved the sieges of Lathom House and Bolton, he followed the retreating Roundheads from the latter town to Liverpool.
It is related that the Prince, reconnoitring the defences of Liverpool from the heights of Everton, declared the place indefensible – “a mere crow’s nest which a parcel of boys might take.” He nevertheless laid siege in all due form, placing his batteries and trenches along the line of Line-street, where remains of these works were unearthed only a year or two ago. The job proved tougher than anticipated, for only after cannonading the town and castle for eighteen days, and losing 1,500 men in unavailing attacks, was the place eventually carried by a night assault.
(Liverpool Daily Post, 22-04-1914)
"Play Up, Liverpool" 