A Mysterious Sinkhole Reveals a 300-Year-Old Crypt
A recent incident at All Saints Church in Martock, Somerset has drawn the attention of both locals and curious visitors. A tomb collapsed into a sinkhole, exposing an underground crypt that dates back over 300 years. The event has sparked interest and concern, as people gather to witness the unusual discovery.
The tomb, which was originally above ground, fell into a 12ft hole that opened beneath it over the weekend. This collapse has revealed a hidden chamber below, believed to be a family crypt. According to Reverend Paul Fillery, the site is now fenced off for safety reasons. “There’s a family crypt underneath, a proper room made with Ham stone,” he explained. However, no human remains have been found yet, and the inscriptions on the tomb have been damaged, making identification difficult.
Martock Parish Council has taken steps to secure the area, placing barriers around the site. In a Facebook post, they warned: “Please be aware there is a collapsed grave at the entrance to the churchyard. Safety barriers are in place, please take extreme care when walking to the fireworks this evening.”
Ham stone, used in the construction of the crypt, is a rare material that is only quarried in two locations today—Ham Hill. Reverend Fillery emphasized that research will be conducted to identify the family buried within the crypt, as the church’s Grade I status requires detailed documentation of such historical sites.
The presence of a large underground crypt suggests that the family who owned it was highly wealthy. Box tombs in churchyards were historically seen as symbols of status, and the crypt may belong to the Pittard family, known for their successful leather business in the area. Reverend Fillery noted that the next door tomb dates back to 1760, so this one is likely over 300 years old. Fortunately, the collapse did not damage any neighboring graves.
All Saints Church itself is a historic structure, with parts dating back to the 13th century. It underwent significant rebuilding during the 15th and 16th centuries, adding to its rich architectural heritage.
This incident raises questions about the preservation of historical sites and the potential risks associated with aging structures. As investigations continue, the community remains engaged, eager to learn more about the history hidden beneath their feet.
The discovery also highlights the importance of maintaining and protecting historical landmarks. With the growing interest in local history and the allure of uncovering secrets from the past, sites like All Saints Church serve as reminders of the stories that lie beneath our modern world.
As the dust settles on this unexpected event, the focus will remain on understanding the significance of the crypt and ensuring the safety of the surrounding area. For now, the sinkhole stands as a testament to the enduring mysteries of history and the ongoing efforts to preserve them.