Parham

Introduction

A small rather scattered village with two large commons, one at North Green the other at Silverlace Green, and a smaller common at Mill Green. Parham was recorded in Domesday as "Perreham". Most houses flank the B1116 and The Street leading to St Mary the Virgin Church.

The new village sign was unveiled on May Day bank holiday 2018.

May I just describe the features depicted on the sign?

To the centre left you will see the pears hanging from the tree, from which Parham derives its name dating back to Saxon times.

Unmistakable is the outline of St. Mary’s church dating back probably to the 12th century. A magnificent structure built when the river was probably much bigger than today, allowing the flints used in its construction to be barged in.

At the top you will see the figure of the Woodwose, a wild man, derived from the 15th century carvings on the archway to Moat Hall. These are often found on mediaeval architecture in Suffolk and Norfolk and can be seen on the Willoughby family coat of arms. The green man with his cudgel down is a friendly sign. It means he has been converted to Christianity and is a sign of peacefulness.…

Gallery

Acknowledgements

Some historical information from English Heritage's National Monuments Record.

Some details from "Suffolk Airfields in WW2" by Graham Smith.