Image credit: Chivista / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0 · 2015-12-14 ↗
George du Maurier's unusual timber tomb
Hampstead · Hampstead · Expansion route discovery
Story
George du Maurier’s tomb here is easily overlooked, as it does not resemble conventional London funerary monuments. Instead of a large stone headstone, it is crafted predominantly from timber: a board slotted between two Celtic crosses. This design, created by Thomas Armstrong around 1896, commemorates both du Maurier and his wife Emma, and bears an inscription from *Trilby*, the novel that transformed the *Punch* cartoonist into a hugely successful author. Du Maurier lived in Hampstead from 1870 to 1895, becoming deeply associated with the district’s vibrant artistic and literary world. He was also the grandfather of Daphne du Maurier, creating an unexpected family literary connection. The tomb’s interest lies as much in the person it commemorates as in its materials: the timber, copper, and carved crosses give it an almost domestic or Arts and Crafts character, making it stand out in a churchyard dominated by stone. It is a detail that truly comes alive when you know precisely what shape to look for.
What to look for
Look for the timber headboard, the two Celtic crosses on either side, copper details, and the inscription with a quote from the novel *Trilby*.
Secret detail
This 1896 funerary monument, designed by Thomas Armstrong, is notable for its use of timber and copper, setting it dramatically apart from most of the stone graves surrounding it.
Where exactly
In the extension of St John-at-Hampstead churchyard, located off Church Row. Look for a monument predominantly made of timber, flanked by Celtic crosses.
Orientation
Do not look for a large, upright stone headstone. Move slowly through the cemetery extension, looking for the timber crosses framing the headboard.
Why it matters
This unusual timber grave not only enriches Hampstead’s literary history but also offers a distinctive visual contrast to the predominant funerary typology of its time.
Access & opening
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Accessibility
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