The Saints is part of a road structure in Ipswich that has been laid down since the Saxon times. It is likely that, since the 8th century, the Stoke Bridge crossing was developed making both St Peter’s Street and St Nicholas Streets not only a main route into Ipswich but also a way to the North.

Just across the way on the Franciscan Way and Wolsey Street area was the Priory for the Greyfriars. There have been archaeological digs here between 1999 and 2006, and in 2010 tests were performed on a male skeleton taken from a cemetery that is believed to have been set down in the early years of the priory. The BBC’s documentary ‘History Cold Case’ found that he was of sub-Saharan origin and another ten of the sculls are believed to have come from the same area of the world.

The Saints streets contain a mix of buildings dating back to the 16th century and this area of the town is steeped in history, although is best recognised for the famous son of Ipswich, Thomas Wolsey. The life of Thomas Wolsey began in a relatively humble way, and he worked his way up to a position that was second only to King Henry VIII, becoming the Chancellor of England.

Both King Henry VIII and his first wife, Queen Catherine of Aragon visited the town separately, on pilgrimage to Our Lady of Grace in Ipswich, staying with Lord Curson at his mansion which was believed to have been on St Peter’s Street between Silent Street and Rose Lane. Across the road from Lord Curson’s Mansion is Curson lodge, which is thought that this was where the servants of important guests stayed.

Thomas Wolsey’s birth place was believed to be just across the road from the lodge. If you want to know more about the history of the Saints and other areas in Ipswich join one of the regular tours that can be booked at the Tourist Information Centre.
By Kathie Jones, Historic Ipswich (UK)