Who Lies Here? The Tomb Monument of an Early-fourteenth Century Knight in Michelmersh Church

Abstract

In the chancel of Michelmersh church is to be seen the fine early fourteenth-century effigy of an unidentified knight. On the evidence of the descent of the manor of Braishfield in Michelmersh, it is suggested that the person commemorated is Sir Roger Woodlock, nephew of Henry Woodlock, bishop of Winchester. Sir Roger's entry into the ranks of Hampshire landowning society affords a good example of how medieval bishops could use their power and wealth to advance the fortunes of their relatives and provide them with material landed endowment.