Derek James: Seeking Clarity on the Enigmatic Plaque of Anglia Square
Have you ever found yourself captivated by the stories hidden within our cities? Today, I invite you to delve into the rich history of Anglia Square, a well-known area in Norwich that has recently been in the spotlight for its ongoing changes. As we witness the gradual demolition of certain structures, an intriguing question arises regarding an old stone plaque that remains shrouded in mystery. I am reaching out to you, dear readers, for your insights.
In a previous article, I discussed a fascinating book titled "The Lost End of Calvert Street" by Matthew Williams and Jason Cork. This book shares the early recollections of Jason’s father, Derek, who spent his childhood on the segment of Calvert Street that was destroyed when the original Anglia Square was constructed in the 1960s.
One of the book's most compelling inquiries revolves around a flint-built warehouse that surprisingly managed to endure until very recently on St George’s Street. This building is now being dismantled to make way for what can be called Anglia Square 2.
The focus of our curiosity is a stone plaque affixed to this warehouse wall. What message did it convey? (See image from Matthew Williams)
In my earlier piece, I hinted at a tantalizing possibility: the unassuming flint structure may have housed remnants of an ancient church, dating back prior to the arrival of the Normans in Norwich during the 11th century. This church is believed to be St Olave’s, one of several medieval places of worship that fell out of use by the 1500s.
Interest in the potential significance of this building has surged lately, particularly due to its size and its east-west alignment. Additionally, it has come to light that mapmakers in the 1970s incorrectly located the historical site of the old church on the current St Crispin’s roundabout, rather than accurately placing it behind the former Cherry Tree pub, which has recently been vacated by Men's Shed.
Fortunately, comprehensive archaeological investigations during the dismantling process should hopefully answer this lingering question.
Yet, as we dig deeper, another intriguing mystery has surfaced related to the warehouse's past, specifically its role as a stable for horses in the pub yard.
A weathered stone plaque is positioned on the rear corner of the warehouse, so eroded over time that only a few letters are discernible, rendering its original wording unreadable. This raises the burning question: What did it say?
I appeal to you, my readers: does anyone possess more information about this plaque? Perhaps some among you have knowledge of its inscription or might even have an old photograph capturing it before the elements rendered it illegible?
For reference, here’s a glimpse of Anglia Square as it appeared in 1982 (Image: Newsquest).
If you have any insights or information, I would love to hear from you! Please reach out at derek.james2013@gmail.com.
As the demolition work progresses, who knows what other historical puzzles might come to light at the Anglia Square site?
If you're curious, "The Lost End of Calvert Street" is available for £9.50 at the City Bookshop in Norwich or for direct mail order at www.sctbooks.co.uk.
