X. YORK MINSTER

Through its long history four large fires have taken place in York Minster. However only the fire of 1829, which was the most destructive fire to ever occur on the site, was a case of arson. A manhunt ensued after the fire and Jonathan Martin was remanded in custody after he openly admitted to the crime with pride. At his trial his troubled childhood and ill mental health came to light. Through his early twenties he had developed extreme religious views which later in life led him to become a fundamental Christian preacher. Martin would disrupt Church services, and wrote several letters, many found near the York Minster, containing warnings about a terrible fire. He claims God told him he must burn down the Minster as a warning to the people. Martin hid in the Minster after evensong one evening and once empty he constructed a large bonfire, before escaping by rope through a window. He was found “not guilty on the grounds of insanity” and spent the remainder of his life in Bethlem Royal Hospital. Also of note at this site are the Minster police. It is their duty to provide security and make sure that the ‘dignity of the Minster’ is upheld. In 2017 the Minster Police constables were given power of arrest. ​