It is documented that this is where the English Civil War began in August 1642.
The first skirmish between Roundheads and Cavaliers of the Civil War (1642-49) took place in the fields to the south of Curdworth (Minworths south-east fields) , the Battle of Curdworth Bridge (Lichfield Road/Marsh Lane). Sir Richard Willys (cavalier/royalist) was sent to escort 2 troops of horse, one of dragoons, 500 foot soldiers and baggage from Kenilworth Castle to Tamworth Castle.
The royalists left Kenilworth traveling via Berkswell, Meriden, Packington and Coleshill, Warwickshire. 1200 parliamentary troops plus Birmingham men tried to head off the royalists via Fillongley, Maxstoke and Coleshill. Sir Richard Willys formed his men in battle formation north of Curdworth Bridge.
He attacked the parliamentarians who were hemmed in by boggy ground south of the bridge. The parliamentarians retreated and Sir Richard Willys moved on to Tamworth Castle.
20 men were killed and buried by the south wall of the chancel of Curdworth Church.