Pic of Durham tomb to go here
Walter died on the 24th March 1406 in Howden, East Riding of Yorkshire. He was a very wealthy man and by today’s standards, he would have been classed as a multi-millionaire.
Walter bequeathed a vast amount of silverware as well as Chapel books and Vestments, Clothing and materials including fur cloaks and riding wear, Tapestries including bedding and silk, Latin books and rare items. In addition to supporting large projects, Walter’s will included smaller payments to servants and poorer members of his family. His barber Hugo received GIO for his services. Peter De La Hay received EIOO for loyal service.
He had already made arrangements to be buried in Durham and had drawn up a will in 1404 to allocate his substantial estate to his chosen benefactors.
A principle allocation of his estate was designated towards building and funding of Chancery churches to ease his elevation to Heaven. Chancery churches with dedicated priests to pray for his soul were built at Durham Cathedral, York Minster, Howden Minster, Selby Abbey and Skirlaugh Chapel.
Walter Skirlaw is buried in Durham Cathedral between two pillars on the north side of the choir.
Durham Cathedral’s website tells us that “Walter Skirlaw was bishop of Durham from 1388 to 1406 and he made sure to build his own monument even larger and taller than Hatfield’s. (a previous bishop) His large donation of £220 helped to build the lofty Monks’ Dormitory above the West Cloister.”