Cast iron grave markers

Stone is the usual material for the memorials in our churchyards although some examples from the early 19th century were made from slate and there are rare examples made from wood. 

But there are even fewer grave markers, or gravestones, made from cast iron although one can be found at the Church of St John the Evangelist at Corby Glen. 

This is a large, broad, round-headed marker painted black with gold letters, now badly faded, and the inscription: "In Memory of GEORGE KELLAM BIRD Who died October 30th 1885 Aged 65 years." 

Photo: Courtesy Peter Fairweather

Bird arrived in Corby Glen in 1846 and set up a wheelwright's business in the High Street. His diaries have survived to provide a valuable and evocative insight into village life during the second half of the 19th century although it is not known why he should have such an unusual memorial. 

Cast iron grave markers are only found in a very few churchyards in this country but can also be found in South Africa and Australia, usually made in Britain or copied from British samples. During the 19th century, they were produced by several foundries in this country but only one in Norfolk has retained the patterns and facilities to manufacture them today. 

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