Monument record 396/1/9 - Vaults in Churchyard of All Saints Church

{1} The hole comprises a small surface opening above the partially collapsed barrel vaulted roof of a simple brick burial vault. The overall depth is at least 2.25m. It was possible to dtermine that the vault internally measures at least 1.70m high under the barrel vault roof and c. 1.65m NxS by 1.90m ExW. All walls appear to be of mortared brick. The upper north wall appears to have been displaced slightly to the north and large cracks are evident in the east wall. Both walls look distinctly unstable. No brick samples could be obtained and whilst close inspection was not viable, the use of machine made bricks seemed likely. It was not possible to determine whether additional vaults adjoin that exposed.
Stacked along the north side of the vault were three lead coffins; no coffin plates or other identification was evident on the partially earth covered uppermost surface. At least one other lead coffin was reported present within the southern part of the vault when the first exposed but this area is now obscured by fresh collapse/infilling. Based on present evidence the vault is assessed as probably being of 19th century date.

{2} A second vault was uncovered in 2005. This proved to be a 5ft Victorian brick built chamber which contained a single coffin. Location unknown.

<1> Cadman, G., 2003, Collapsed vault, All Saints Church, Braunston, (checked) (SMR Report Form). SNN103399.

<2> Brosnan, A., 2005, Church Ground Opens Up to Reveal Mystery Tombs, (checked) (Newspaper cuttings). SNN107678.

Record last edited

Oct 26 2011 1:20PM