Martyrs Memorial Obelisk On Pavement In Front Of Number 85

RAYLEIGH HIGH STREET TQ 8090-8190 (east side) 7/86 Martyrs Memorial Obelisk on pavement in front of No. 85 GV II

Obelisk. Dated 1908. Marble obelisk on plastered double base with chamfered upper edges. The lower block with ornate cast iron drinking fountain to west face, this with semi-circular bowl and pendant, moulded head and lotus head fosset. Moulded marble base to obelisk "Thy word is truth" to west face. The obelisk polished with rough centre panels. Side panels read: "Erected 1908 by the Protestants of Rayleigh and District. The Noble army of Martyrs praise Thee". "On this spot suffered for the truth Thomas Causton 26 March 1555, John Ardley 10 June 1555, who, in reply to Bishop Bonner said, If every hair on my head were a man I would suffer death in the opinion and faith I now profess." "Also commemorating Robert Drakes, Minister of Thundersley and William Tyms Curate of Hockley, both suffered in one fire at Smithfield 24 April 1556." Situated between the pump q.v. 9/85 and horse trough q.v. 9/87 forming an important group in the former market place.

Listing NGR: TQ8059890676