Monthly Archives: May 2020

On 7 May 1846 a ceremony took place of great importance to Southampton. Today is the 174th Anniversary of that day when Southampton’s Old (then ‘New’!) Cemetery was opened. A large crowd attended when the Bishop of Winchester consecrated the Anglican sections of the grounds, two thirds of the original area. The remaining one third was left unconsecrated as that was designated for Non-Conformists. In later years, the cemetery was extended twice. For the members of FoSOC this is, and always has been, a very special place and one for which we all have the greatest respect. History, architecture, stonemasonry, trees, plants and wildlife are here and provide us, Southampton residents, and visitors with points of interest. It is important, too, to appreciate that, in particular circumstances, burials (including of cremated remains) can – and still do – take place … Continue reading →