Ships Figurehead About 8 Metres West Of The Lych Gate Of The Church Of St Morwenna

The ships figurehead, located about 8 metres west of the lych gate of the Church of St Morwenna, dates from the early 19th century. It is made of carved wood, painted in a single colour, and depicts Caledonia, who is holding a drawn sword and shield, fixed onto its original timber. This figurehead was erected to commemorate the captain and crew of the 'Caledonia' of Arbroath, which was wrecked at Morwenstow in 1842, resulting in only one survivor. The figure was repaired in 1968 after sustaining damage during a theft. It is also illustrated in the Hawker memorial window within the church. The Reverend R S Hawker, who served as vicar of Morwenstow from 1835 to 1874, notably broke local tradition by burying drowned sailors in the churchyard. At one time, three ship keels and a cross made from oars were placed in the churchyard to honor deceased sailors. Hawker published a dramatic account of the aftermath of the wreck of the 'Caledonia', including a poem that reflects on the tragedy.