Following a talk in May 2024 about the Montagu family who lived at Boughton near Kettering, it seemed only right to visit the splendid memorial monuments at Warkton Church. In May this year, 17 members enjoyed a guided tour by two local volunteers, Paul and Fiona.
The four monuments are in the remodelled chancel and are to John, the 2nd Duke of Montagu, opposite that to his wife Mary, daughter of John and Sarah Churchill, the Marlboroughs. Both are the work of Roubilliac, the most prestigious sculptor of his day (early C18th). Beyond them in opposite alcoves are memorials to their daughter Mary and their grand-daughter, Elizabeth, both of whom inherited the estate. These are the work of two later sculptors.
The large clear glass east window at the end of the chancel is original and was designed to let as much light in as possible to allow the stunning sculptures to be seen at their best. Hilary Aslett
Photos are of two of the memorials by Janet Womack plus one of the church by Andrew Parry