Saxon bandits and British outlaws sheltered in the dense Selwood Forest. The forest had been a barrier to settling much of Somerset. But by the mid-seventh century the Saxons moved in after a number of local battles. As they came from Germany, they were used to the forest condition. And interestingly, they brought Christianity, and not their earlier religion of paganism. But it was St Aldhelm who ‘tamed’ the Saxons and founded Frome.
Aldhelm
Aldhelm, the apostle of Wessex, had became Abbot of Malmesbury. He had heard of the ‘ungodly’ conditions of the Selwood Forest. And decided that he would ‘civilise’ and convert the people of the forest to Roman Orthodox Christianity.
It is believed that in about 690 on a journey from Sherbourne to Malmesbury, Aldhelm and his men rested on the river bank. It was here, that according to his biographer, Faritius, that Aldhelm built a monastery. He dedicated it to the ‘honour of St John the Baptist on the river which is called Frome.’
The Perfect Location
The location chosen for the mission was not perfect. Further upstream, at today’s Spring Gardens, the river crossing was easier. But the river could be forded nearby, where the town bridge is today. And the spring provided a healthy water supply. This still feeds the leat on Cheap Street. The land was probably drier and easier to clear of shrubbery. And it was on high ground to provide a lookout.
The Frome Mission
The mission quickly became the heart of the community. It provided not only protection, but labour and trading opportunities for the local and surrounding settlements.
The spirit of Frome still lies in the ethos of community that St Aldhelm established. He gave the gifts of music, song, volunteering and learning, and on the 25th May he is remembered every year when the town celebrates the Saint Day of Aldhelm, the Patron Saint and founder of Frome.
