Blackfriars

Ruins

What is recorded here

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The Ipswich Blackfriars, a Dominican friary in England, was founded by King Henry III in 1263. The church, dedicated to St Mary, was established on land purchased from Hugh son of Gerard de Langeston. Notable benefactors included Roger Bigod and Sir Robert de Ufford. The site, between Foundation Street and Lower Orwell Street, housed a priory complex that included the refectory, sacristy, chapter house, dormitory, and cloister. The church disappeared within a century after the Dissolution, but the layout of other conventual buildings survived until 1849.

Foundation and growth

King Henry III established the Dominican friars at Ipswich in 1263 by purchasing land for them. Notable benefactors included Roger Bigod, Sir Robert de Ufford, and Sir Richard and Lady Margaret Plays. The church was dedicated to St Mary.

People and events

Among the notable people buried at Blackfriars were Adam de Brandeston, Gilbert Boulge, and Dame Alice de Holebrok. In 1397, a disagreement arose as to who was the rightful prior.

Damage, loss and survival

The Blackfriars church disappeared within a century after the Dissolution, but the layout of other conventual buildings survived until 1849. Excavations in the priory cemetery revealed about 250 burials.

Why it mattered

The Blackfriars was an important religious and social center in Ipswich, attracting notable benefactors and housing a significant number of burials. Its history provides insights into the town's medieval society and architecture.