It is common to find memorials to wealthy departed people in churches. Many convey only the basic details of the person - name and date of death are the minimum. Most, however, include more information such as the spouse's name, their occupation, notable offices held by the individual etc. These offer fascinating insights into the period and person they describe. Sometimes, however, the eulogising goes way over the top making the deceased seem like a latter-day saint and giant of the community. This memorial, in Cheltenham Minster, to a Manx sea captain, Henry Skillicorne, is reputed to be the longest memorial in the country and a fascinating insight into the busy life of someone who was instrumental in establishing Cheltenham as a spa town.
photo © T. Boughen Camera: Nikon Z 5
