Allen Monument In South East Corner Of Churchyard, Former Church Of St Giles

The Allen Monument is a shrine tomb located in the south-east corner of the churchyard of the former Church of St Giles, dating from the late 19th century. It is constructed from Ham stone and has a square plan with a moulded base. Each face features one cusped lancet panel with a traceried gable above, topped by a truncated steeple. Attached to the monument is a low enclosing wall with trefoil tracery and a cross at the east end. The monument commemorates J.M. Allen and his children. The Reverend J.M. Allen served as the curate from 1839 to 1855 and was also the headmaster of Ilminster Grammar School. He was an amateur architect of notable skill, with his other church in the parish, St Mary Magdalene in Cricket Malherbie, considered his best work.