Before the building of Archbishop Roger's minster at least two of Ripon's hospital chapels had been founded. They were placed close to the river crossings: St John's, as one approaches the town to cross the Skell from the south at Bondgate, was established between 1109 and 1115; St Mary Magdalen's, as one crosses the Ure, approaching the town from the north, shortly afterwards. St Mary Magdalen Chapel about 1820 showing the 17th century almshouses (Click to enlarge)

Each provided food and shelter for the poor and had a special ministry to travellers. St Mary's, for a time, cared for lepers and blind priests: St John's, for poor clerks keeping their schools at Ripon. These two chapels had become relatively wealthy by the 13th century - indeed at one point St Mary's may have had as many as six chantry priests attached - and as a result suffered depredation from pluralist clergy masters.

Buck's view of Ripon (1745) showing the Chain / Archer Bridge

© Maurice H Taylor 2000 Please click here for details of the Author

In the Beginning Custom and Tradition The Church The Administration The Hospital Chapels Law and Order The Market Town and City