Catherine Howard

Letter from Catherine Howard to Thomas Culpepper, 1541

Catherine Howard loses her head

This letter written by Catherine Howard, fifth wife of Henry VIII, was used as evidence of her adultery. It helped to seal her fate.

Catherine was only 19 years old when she married Henry, who was almost 50. The marriage lasted little over a year. At first, Henry thought of Catherine as a 'rose without thorns', but he later found out that she was having an affair with Thomas Culpepper, a great favourite of the king.

In this affectionate letter, Catherine has heard that Thomas has fallen ill. She urges him to let her know how he is. She writes that it causes her pain to be apart from him and wishes he could be with her. She asks him to provide a horse for the servant in order to aid their communications. The letter ends with 'Yours as long as life endures'.

For the high treason of adultery with the queen, Thomas Culpepper was sentenced to be hanged, drawn and quartered but the sentence was commuted to beheading and Culpepper was dispatched in December 1541.

Find out more on our website

Exhibitions & Treasures has more on Henry VIII:

• Seal of Henry VIII
• Valor Ecclesiasticus - commissioned by Henry and featuring his portrait

For school pupils and teachers:

• How did Henry VIII get up in the morning?

• This item can be found in our catalogue - SP 1/167 f.14