Medieval Mayors, MPs and mariners of York: Talk by Dr Pat Cullum
St James Chapel exterior
© Pat Cullum
Making Waves - Part of the York Festival of Ideas
Find out about two mediaeval migrants and the marks they made on two York churches in this informative talk by Dr Pat Cullum which will be presented from the pulpit.
Robert de Holme Sr (d.1396) and Nicholas de Blackburn (d.1432) were two of the most prominent of York’s post Black Death citizens. Both migrants to York, they made their money from trade, especially wool and cloth, Holme was one of the first merchants of the Calais Staple, and Blackburn was appointed Admiral of the North by Henry V, during his campaign against France. Both became Mayors of York and subsequently MP for the City.
Both have also left surviving memorials: Robert the chantry (or St James') chapel in Holy Trinity Goodramgate, York and Nicholas both the Bolton Book of Hours and the 7 Works of Mercy window in All Saints North St, York.
Free, but please reserve a ticket on Eventbrite via the link.
Donations welcome at the event.
Doors 1530 for a 1600 start
Run time 60mins (45 to 50 minute talk plus Q&A)
Part of the York Festival of Ideas 2025 - details of other events can be found at https://yorkfestivalofideas.com/2025/
Speaker biography
Dr Pat Cullum was Principal Lecturer in Medieval History at the University of Huddersfield before her retirement. She is now a Lead Volunteer at Holy Trinity Goodramgate, York.
© York Festival of Ideas
Venue and access information
Lighting: Light levels are low and most events are by candlelight. We do not have electricity in the main body of the building.
Temperature: The building is over 800 years old and temperatures inside are usually lower than those outside. Please wrap up warmly!
Seating: Seating is in historic box pews which are fixed into position. Sight lines vary and seating is allocated on arrival. You may be required to share a box pew with others. Blankets are available on request, but you are welcome to bring your own blankets and cushions for your comfort.
Toilets: There is one toilet in the building. The facilities can only be accessed by speaking to our stewards. There are three steps up and the office where it is located may be locked. The cubical has handrail support and a changing table, but no bins. Please take rubbish away with you. The facilities can be reached by those requiring step free entry via an external door. There are alternative toilet facilities in The Old White Swan pub nextdoor.
Access: Floors are uneven throughout. The building is wheelchair accessible save for the Sunken Chapel. The three stairs down to the Sunken Chapel may be slippery so watch your step in this area. There is a ramp with handrail inside the main door. We are usually able to accommodate at least one wheelchair user, but we would recommend that you visit the venue in advance to discuss the best possible seating arrangement for you. Please email york@thecct.org.uk with any questions or to arrange a visit.