The Geneva Bible was taken on the Mayflower, which links Soulton to the early days of America. Shropshire has other links to that moment and place, for example at St James’ Church in Shipton, Shropshire, which boasts a rich history stretching back at least to the 12th century.
The chancel arch is of this early period, standing alongside the later addition of the tower around 1200. Unfortunately, by the 16th century, the chancel had fallen into ruin. Fortunately, it was rebuilt in 1589, and the medieval floor tiles in the nave are thought to be remnants of the old structure. Over the centuries, the church has undergone various additions and restorations, with a major refurbishment during the 1950s.
While the church itself boasts a fascinating history, Shipton is perhaps most well-known for the tragic tale of its “Mayflower children,” the More siblings. Caught in the crossfire of a troubled marriage between Samuel More and his wife Katharine, these four children became part of a dispute. Samuel, suspecting infidelity, claimed none of the children were his. Following their separation, Samuel arranged for all four children to be sent on the Mayflower to America.
Each entrusted to a guardian, the More children embarked on the perilous journey across the Atlantic in 1620.
St James’ Church today acknowledges this poignant story. A stained-glass window adorns the interior, while a tablet installed in 1996, funded by The American Mayflower Society, serves as a permanent reminder of the four More children and their extraordinary journey.
In the eleventh century church in Shipton #Shropshire, something of huge significance to our American cousins happened.#mayflower pic.twitter.com/IWfeRRDjiK
— Soulton Hall (@SoultonHall) June 28, 2022
