St. Germoe's Chair

Two or perhaps three miles north from the bustling tourist area of Praa Sands, just off the main A394 to Penzance and 8 miles west of Helston, lies the sleepy village of Germoe. The beautiful little church, which dates back nearly 900 years, has a quite unique feature built into the wall at the north east end of the churchyard, a little pillared, arched, alcoved sedilia, or seat.

It is believed to be St. Germoe's shrine as there is a crowned head set above the central pillar. Could this be a representation of Germoe as a "King" figure? A local legend may reveal the answer. Germoe may have been an Irish monk who settled in Cornwall early in the dark ages. He had a Sister named Breaca, who was a patron saint of a neighbouring village Breage. Both names are linked to a saying in Cornish: "Germoe a King, Breage a midwife."

The seat was supposedly built in the 16th century, as it has a very medieval look about it. It is a very small structure, which may confirm its age as sitting inside it is far too cramped to accomodate two people from the 18th century. It does however, offer tranquil views across the churchyard suggesting it was just built to enjoy the serene setting on a peaceful sunny afternoon..

Click for larger photo

It is reported that at around 1823, the historian Drew believed that the chair was built by the Millitons who resided in Pengersick. The last Milliton died in 1565.

St. Germoe's Well

100 yards or so down the road from the church, is St. Germoe's well. It was noted by Leland in 1538 on a visit to Germoe. The well remained undisturbed until the church road was raised up and widened in 1905 and the well was lost including all of the stones. It was reconstructed again in 1977 in celebration of Elizabeth II silver jubilee. Locals report that at one time, this holy well may have been covered with just a canopy. It has been suggested that the original canopy was removed and re-erected at the site of St. Germoe's Chair...

Visiting

Germoe village is signposted from the A394. The Church is open everyday and parking is not a problem. Be sure to drop in and visit the church itself too, it has a delightful character all of its own.

Co-Ords: 158500 029400 / SW 585 294  

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Co-ords 426650 474200 / SE 266742  

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Reproduction of part or all of the contents of any of these pages is prohibited except to the extent permitted below.
These pages may be downloaded onto a hard disk or printed for your personal use without alterations. Any other use needs consent of the web site owner Mr C Curtis :- see Contact Page. These pages may not be included in any other work or publication, or be distributed or copied for any commercial purpose except as stated above.