Originally built by the Normans, Ramsey Abbey is one of the proudest parts of Ramsey, although now a grammer school it was once a monastery for monks. The stone for this mammoth site was delivered from "Wansford" and was built as the biggest Medieval Abbey in Europe. The below picture illustrates the way the Abbey Gatehouse looks today. The Gateway is now used as the main entrance to Ramsey Abbey school.



Founded in 969AD, the Abbey was constructed by Duke Ailwyn. Having been the largest Abbey in Europe and one the wealthiest and powerful in East Anglia, the Abbey which by this time was known throughout the land as "Ramsey the Rich" was dissolved in 1539 and almost brought financial ruin to the whole town because without the monastery and the visiting pilgrims there was no trade for the town.

The destruction of the Abbey was order by "Cromwell the Protector", Curiously this was the only time in history when England was without King and Queen. "Oliver the Protectors" uncle was "Sir Oliver Cromwell" which he stripped of his armory and threatened to burn the town if his cash demands were not met. Although he wanted another £1000 and 40 saddled horses from his uncle, Sir Oliver could not financially comply. Although parliament wanted to take Sir Olivers land his Nephew intervened and saved it.

Through the years people got Cromwells mixed up, Some people say that Oliver Cromwell was born in Ramsey, others say he lived in St Ives, Others say he lived in Huntingdon. Because there were so many Oliver Cromwells in the same time period I would think that all of these scenarios could be true "but that is debateable".

When the Abbey was dissolved by "Oliver the Protector", it slowly began to be demolised, hense the half built buildings standing today. The stone was sold all over the country to gain money. The stone was brought into Ramsey by boat when the construction was taking place and it left Ramsey in the same fashion. Alot of the stone was sent into Cambridge to build three of the main universities which are still in use up to this day.

The last (Bottom) picture in this set is of the main building of Ramsey Abbey. This building is now used as part of the main school. For more information go to : Ramsey Abbey School Homepage.