Nichols Monument In The Churchyard About 5 Metres North Of North Aisle Of Anglican Church Of St Thomas À Becket

The Nichols Monument is a sandstone chest tomb dating to circa 1803, located within the churchyard approximately 5 metres north of the north aisle of the Anglican Church of St Thomas à Becket.

The tomb features a flat top with a moulded edge, set upon a moulded plinth. Recessed, engaged square columns feature at the corners, topped by a beaded cornice with rosettes. The south side displays two inscription panels with a central hourglass. The north side has paired, shaped cartouches, incorporating an hourglass, a trumpet, and other symbols relating to the second coming, alongside a central angel. Inscriptions commemorate William Nichols, who died in 1803, and other family members.

Pucklechurch’s history extends back to Roman times and was an important settlement from the later Anglo-Saxon period. It was the site of Edmund, King of Wessex’s hunting lodge, who was murdered there in AD 946. The manor was granted to Glastonbury Abbey in AD 950, later transferred to Bath Abbey in the 13th century. Following the Dissolution in the 16th century, the village experienced rebuilding and gentrification, reflected in the construction of large houses during the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries. A period of further expansion and prosperity occurred from the mid-19th century with the opening of collieries in the parish.

The parish church, founded in the Norman period, largely dates from the 13th century. A north aisle and south porch were added in the 14th century, along with parts of the tower. A chantry was established in 1337, now the site of the Lady Chapel. Further alterations occurred in the 17th century and two major phases of work during the 19th century.

The Nichols tomb is designated at Grade II for its architectural interest as a good example of an early 19th century chest tomb with a pronounced architectural design, and for its symbolism, as well as its group value, relating to the Grade I listed Church of St Thomas à Becket and the other listed tombs within the churchyard.