Perhaps the most remarkable person buried in Bedford Cemetery was Mabel Bartltrop, founder of the town’s millenarian community known as the Panacea Society. They were known internationally for her Healing Mission and campaigns to have Joanna Southcott’s Box of Prophecies opened. They were (and still are) misunderstood by many because of their idiosyncrasies rather than their sincere and in some ways proto-feminist beliefs.

Over a hundred members are buried here.

Walk leader Adrian Bean has spent many years carrying out original research into these burials, including the enigmatic way seventy-five of them came to be buried in Section I, near the Scots Soldiers memorial.

If you already know about the Society, come along to learn more; if you know nothing about it but are intrigued, then come along and drink in the story of this unorthodox group of (mostly) women.

Meet at the Chapel 10 minutes before the walk.

This event is free to but a small contribution to the Friends would be welcome

Please note:  The cemetery ground is uneven, so wear sensible shoes.  When viewing memorials, please do not lean on them.