Cicely Orme (c. 1526 – 1558)
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Cicely Orme (often recorded as Cicely Ormes) is perhaps one of the most poignant and well-documented figures in the history of the Orme name. A woman of great conviction, she was executed in Norwich during the Marian Persecutions for her Protestant faith.
Early Life and Marriage
Born Cicely Haund in East Dereham, Norfolk, she was the daughter of Thomas Haund, a tailor. She eventually moved to the parish of St. Lawrence in Norwich, where she married Edward Orme, a worsted weaver. While historical records describe her as a "simple woman," her resolve during the religious upheavals of the 16th century was anything but simple.
The Arrest at Lollards' Pit
Cicely's path to martyrdom began in July 1557. She was present at Lollards' Pit in Norwich to witness the execution of Simon Miller and Elizabeth Cooper. As they stood at the stake, Cicely publicly voiced her support for them. For this act of solidarity and her refusal to attend the Catholic Mass, she was arrested and imprisoned.
Trial and Martyrdom
After remaining in prison for over a year, she was brought before the Chancellor, Michael Dunning. Despite offers of leniency if she would recant her beliefs, Cicely remained steadfast, stating that she would not act against her conscience.
On September 23, 1558, between seven and eight in the morning, Cicely Orme was taken to Lollards' Pit to be burned at the stake. Her final moments were recorded in Foxe’s Book of Martyrs. Upon reaching the stake, she is said to have kissed it and said:
"Welcome the sweet cross of Christ."
She met her end with remarkable calm, her last words being a recitation of the Magnificat: "My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit rejoiceth in God my Saviour."
Historical Significance
Cicely Orme was the last person to be burned for her faith in Norwich. Just two months after her execution, Queen Mary I died, and the persecutions came to an end under the reign of Elizabeth I. Today, she is remembered as a hero of the Reformation and a notable branch of the Orme family tree in East Anglia.
External Links & Resources
For more detailed historical context regarding the Marian Persecutions and the specific trial of Cicely Orme, you may find the following resources useful:
- Wikipedia: The Execution of Cicely Orme