Fortrey Tomb At Churchyard Of St John The Baptist

The Fortrey tomb, located in the churchyard of St John the Baptist in King's Norton, is an obelisk tomb dating from the mid-18th century. It is made of stone, slate, and wrought iron and is positioned against the eastern end of the church. The tomb features a finely carved table tomb topped with an obelisk. The end of the tomb is adorned with an elaborate cartouche displaying the Fortrey family arms, and there are slate plaques with carved volutes and balusters on either side.

The obelisk itself stands on four ball pads and has a moulded cornice at the top, with a carved urn finial. There are angel heads or cartouches located halfway up the sides of the obelisk. The tomb is set on a high moulded plinth and is surrounded on three sides by wrought iron railings that have scrolled panels and crestings at intervals, with alternating spear-head and diamond top finials. The entire structure stands approximately 6 meters high. Inscriptions on the tomb commemorate William Fortrey, who died in 1722, and his wife, who died in 1733. It was erected by their son, William Fortrey, who also constructed the church.