One of the features St Mary’s Church is the fine set of misericords. If you have not seen them go and have a look – they are a particularly interesting. Misericords were the seats used by the medieval clergy during long services. On the top of the seat, when raised, is a small ledge on which the Vicar could perch to rest his legs while still appearing to be upright. If he nodded off, the seat would fall with an alarming clatter waking both him and, no doubt, some of the congregation.

Underneath are carved designs and figures – the work of medieval wood carvers. These designs allowed the craftsman to show off his skill and often to indulge in whimsical and allegorical designs. These seats may not be original to Godmanchester, possibly arriving here from Huntingdon Priory at the dissolution of the monasteries. However, the presence of a fleur-de-lys on one seat and the initials WS (possibly for William Stevens, Vicar 1470-81), suggests they have been made for St Mary’s. (The church is open 1pm – 3pm weekdays and 2 pm – 4pm Saturdays). More detail can be found on the misericords at http://www.misericords.co.uk/godmanchester.html#top

On the north side are:
A man with long hair
A collared dog on a cushion
A bird on a branch
A fleur-de-lys
A hare or rabbit in a star burst
A devil with his tongue protruding
A vine leaf
A crouching cat
A seated ape
A wyvern

On the south side are:
A fox stealing a goose
An angel with a scroll
An angel with a shield bearing WS
A crouching lion
A lion with a protruding tongue
A reclining horse
A cat holding a mouse
An eagle holding a scroll
A dappled fawn scratching its nose
A fleur-de-lys

Copyright © Godmanchester Community Association 2005