Matthew Woodifield Memorial
Placed just on the south side of the Gregory Chapel facing towards the Central Crossing is a bold, white marble memorial, designed to make an impression.
Built around 1826 this monument, commissioned by his son, honours Matthew Woodifield (1758-1826).
Notable people
- Matthew Woodifield was a land agent to the Dean and Chapter for 25 years and administered all the important Cathedral lands.
- He played a leading role in developing the riverbanks surrounding the cathedral.
- A wealthy man, he also had an estate in Horden, County Durham, and leased out mining rights.
Did you know?
Mystery artist
- We don’t know who designed and built this memorial but that hasn’t stopped researchers from trying to unravel the mystery!
- Some think it might be the work of an architect rather than a sculptor. Architect Sir John Soane's draftsman, Joseph Michael Gandy (1771-1843), admired Italian design. Could this be the reason for the style?
- The other suggestion is Ignatius Bonomi (1787-1870) the English designer and surveyor of Italian heritage who was employed in the cathedral in around 1826. He made repairs to the Chapel of the Nine Altars and other parts of the cathedral.
Things to look for
- With its short and stout proportions, temple shape, and mass of flora and fauna detailing, it is more usual to find a memorial like this in a graveyard.
- The carved decorations include an owl and poppy flowers.
'Sacred to the memory of the Late MATTHEW WOODIFIELD, Esquire of this City, who lived in the love of all who knew him, And departed this life on the 28th day of August 1826, aged 68 years in the hope of a happy Resurrection through Christ.'
Follow the guided tour
You’re in: The Chapel of the Nine Altars You’re at: Matthew Woodifield Memorial Next stop: The North Transept
- From the memorial, walk under the wooden arch
- Walk forwards into the space on your right
- This is the North Transept