Southampton, England

Ted. Judy and I enjoyed a wonderful short stay with our friends in Rye, England before taking the train to Southampton. 

Ted, Judy, Colin & Harvey

We arrived the day before our ship was scheduled to depart so we did a wee bit of exploring. The town is quite old and served as the departure point for many famous journeys such as Henry V’s journey to Agincourt, the Mayflower, the Titanic and much of the D-Day invasion force. 

Our ship, the Independence of the Seas from the city walls

About 70% of the old city walls are still intact (or restored) and a number of old buildings and churches were rebuilt after the “Southampton Blitz.” As important port and home to the Spitfire fighter factory, Southampton was a key bombing target for the Germans in WWII. 

Holy Rood Church

Mayflower Pilgrims Memorial

We learned that a good many French Huguenots found refuge here after the terrible persecutions in 17th century France. They even worshipped at a church which still exists. It is possible that Judy’s Huguenot ancestors worshipped here before sailing to Virginia. 

St Julien's Huguenot Church

Speaking of which, we were warmly greeted on Sunday morning at St. Michael’s Church, a part of which was erected in 1070 AD. Alas, we couldn’t stay for coffee and cake as we had to board our ship.

St Michael's Church