One of the most important features in Castle Bromwich graveyard are the monuments. Spanning many generations they reflect beliefs and ideas about commemoration, styles and tastes over time as well as giving enticing glimpses and clues to the social history of the area.
Over time ground subsidence has caused some of the monuments to lean. Such was the case with the Foden Family Grave until a team from Jaguar Land Rover came to our rescue and straightened it.
In loving memory of Mary Foden died March 14th 1915 aged 65 years, beloved wife of Allen Foden died April 23rd 1923, aged 69 years. Also Elizabeth Bromage died June 18th, 1849, aged 78 and Alice Sarah Foden beloved daughter of Allen and Mary died June 26th 1950, aged 72.
Mary Foden was the daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth Bromage, nee Smith. She was born in Stanford Worcestershire in 1850. She married Allen Foden on 4th August 1874 and the couple had eight known children between 1875 and 1891. Alice Sarah was both their second daughter and second born child.
Allen Foden was born in Curdworth in 1854. He was the son of William Foden and Jane Hiley. After their marriage, Allen and Mary set up home on the Green in Castle Bromwich. Allen tried his hand at various jobs, but they were usually unskilled and consisted of general labouring. His children were encouraged to pursue skilled careers and Alice took this to heart becoming a registered mid-wife for the village.
Mary died on 14th March 1915. She was buried in the graveyard by St Mary & St Margaret Church. Allen died eight years later on 23rd April, 1923. Their daughter Alice never married and died on June 26th 1950. Mary’s mother, Elizabeth Bromage, nee Smith, is also commemorated on the gravestone.
