Memorials in Churches and other religious building tend to be erected in honour of Saints, Royalty, and Famous Politicians. Most are predictable in style. Occasionally memorials can be distinctively special.
The Memorial above is one very special memorial… the inscription on the Plinth, best describes the importance to a well-loved Father.
* * * * *
DAVID PIKE WATTS
THIS MONUMENT, SKILLFULLY CREATED BY THE HIGHEST ART POSSIBLE
BY A SCULPTURE (was set up by) HIS ONLY SURVIVING DAUGHTER AND
HER HUSBAND, FOR HER LAMENTED EXCELLENT & DEARLY BELOVED
FATHER, HONOURED BESIDES BY MANY TITLES PRIVATE & PUBLIC, SO
THAT THERE SHOULD BE NO LACK OF WORDS AS TESTIMONY TO OUR LOSS
AND REVERENCE FOR HIS DEAR LIFE
A D 1824
DIED 29th JULY A D 1826 AGED 52
* * * * *
The skilled Sculptor was a Francis Chantrey RA (1781-1841).
It can be found in the appropriatly named Chantrey Chapel, which is located in The Church of the Holy Cross in the Staffordshire village of Ilam, once the home of the Watts Russell family.
The Church is Saxon in origin and of course adapted over the centuries.
The Chantry Chapel was constructed specially to be the home for this memorial. You can see the chapel in the image below, it is the Gothic style building attached to the left of this distinctive Saxon Church.
Sunday today…. and a new week ahead, so time to recharge the batteries…. as always…
Please Remember ….
Stay Safe …. Be Kind…. Look After Each Other
12th February
(C) David Oakes 2023
DAVID OAKES - IMAGES. 