Into the Light

Walking up out of the crypt gives this view towards three of the many memorials in the Minster. The two outer memorials are impressive to look at with their carved figures, but the one in the centre is most touching for it's simplicity and the sentiment expressed in the inscription. It is for Ensign Henry Whittam and the dedication reads:

"Sacred to the memory of Ensign Henry Whittam who in the 26th year of his age was accidentally drowned in the River Ouse, May 28th 1809. The officers of the Craven Reg. of Local Militia assembled at York when this melancholy event occured have caused this marble to be engraved as token of their high respect and to perpetuate the virtues of their beloved and lamented comrade"

Henry Whittam is buried in Holy Trinity Church in Micklegate where there is another memorial to him.