St Andrew, Soham (RGL2025)

St Andrew, High Street, Soham

History of St Andrew, Soham

Listed building on Heritage at Risk Register

Minster Church, c.1180-90 of cruciform plan. In C15 the church was extended by one bay to the west and the west tower built. The late C12 nave arcade and crossing are particularly fine, as are the C15 roof, pews, misericords and screen. (Historic England)

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The church can trace its origins to the early 12th century. In 1102 Hubert de Burgh, Chief Justice, granted Ranulph, first recorded Vicar of Soham, lands in trust for the Church of St Andrew.

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The graveyard is the site of the burial of Susannah Vassa, wife of Equiano. She died 21st February 1796 and her grave was marked: ‘Susannah Vassa, Wife of Gustavus the African, aged 34 years.’

Their two children, Anna Maria b 1793, and Joanna b 1795, were both baptised at St Andrews.

Gustavus died in 1797 at the age of 52 in Paddington, but the whereabouts of his burial are unknown. His daughter Anna Maria died in 1797 a few months later. She is buried in St Andrews, Chesterton, Cambridge.

Also see: https://antislavery.ac.uk/items/show/581

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Photo shows United Brethren Friendly Society, Hospital Fund, and Hearts banners.

This photo appears to have been taken outside St Andrew’s Church. It was one of the highlights of the year, an occasion when money was raised for Addenbrookes Hospital.

The nave roof is of oak and has angels dating from the 15th century. Originally each angel would have had carved wooden wings. Two of the angels hold instruments.

The 14th century wall painting appears to be a priest or bishop, possible St Felix.

A 14th century altar tomb.

Misericords dating to the 15th century.

The painted parclose screen dates from the 15th century and was originally between the chancel and the nave.

The pew end carvings in the nave are known as “poppy heads” and many date from the 15th century.