Aspects of Markenfield 2: The Markenfield Family Tombs in Ripon Cathedral by Ian Curteis FSA

Description

Although the Markenfields had a beautiful domestic Chapel in the heart of the house – which is still very active, and to which all are welcome – at an early stage they established their own chantry chapel dedicated to St Andrew on the East side of the North transept of Ripon Cathedral, where two mediaeval monuments to two notable members of the family remain: both Sir Thomas Markenfields, one (d. 1398) the great-great-grandfather of the other (d.1497). They are all that is left of what must have been, before the reformation, a very fine place of worship and family. mausoleum.

Mass would have been said here daily for the souls of the family departed, by the resident chantry priest. It is probable that this was the same priest who also said Mass daily in the Chapel at Markenfield itself and that he commuted between his two Chapels every day. Those familiar with Yorkshire weather and muddy tracks will know this would not always have been a pleasure…