Get ready to uncover a treasure trove of secrets from London's past as St Martin-in-the-Fields church marks an incredible 300 years of history. This iconic Trafalgar Square landmark is unearthing centuries of hidden stories etched into its very fabric, and we're talking game-changing revelations here! A new exhibition and online archive, 'Stories Behind the Stones', are about to blow the lid off the lives of ordinary Londoners who've been quietly making history for centuries.
Standing as a beacon in London's political and cultural life for three centuries, St Martin-in-the-Fields' memorial stones – tucked away in its crypt and cafe – are now yielding fascinating glimpses into long-forgotten narratives. Among the most striking discoveries is that of William Fatt, a Black chimney sweep for the king's palaces, who cast his vote in the 1749 Westminster by-election. This new research suggests Fatt is jointly one of Britain's first known Black voters, beating the well-known writer Ignatius Sancho to it by an impressive 31 years, according to historian Dr Robin Eagles.
Another poignant memorial commemorates Richard James Said, described as 'a native of Africa', who tragically died at just 19 in 1810. The inscription hints at a remarkable story: he served one family for seven whole years with 'uniform integrity'. Volunteer archivist Dan Kaszeta notes the mystery surrounding Said, suggesting that while he could have been a freed slave, the prevailing evidence from the era indicates a high probability of enslavement given the demographics of Black residents back then. The cost of the memorial stone – approximately £2,000 in today's money – suggests the family who placed it wasn't impoverished.
The anniversary celebrations, titled '300 Years at the Heart and on the Edge', are also putting the spotlight on the church's extensive history of activism and protest, with a particular focus on those 'at the edge of society'. Its steps have been a notable site for demonstrations, including anti-apartheid protests in the 1980s. The church's legacy of compassion is further underscored by its historical links to London's first free lending library and its foundational role in organisations like The Big Issue, Amnesty International, and Shelter.
Artefacts on display include a royal chair once used by Queen Mary and the original door handle from the 1726 church, depicting St Martin sharing his cloak. The exhibition also features the Lampedusa Cross, crafted from the wood of a boat that sank off the Italian island in 2013, symbolising the church's Nazareth Community and its commitment to sanctuary. Audio recordings from 1928 of its choir showcase St Martin's history of innovation, including its services being relayed via the Electrophone in the 1890s.