Where Was Hengist Buried?

A correspondent asks me the following question: “Can you inform me where Hengist the Saxon lies buried, some say at Conisbro’, and others at Sprotbrough?” I am sorry it is not in my power to supply the information sought, nor do I think the question will ever meet with a satisfactory solution. There would have been some chance had the query been mooted 1,300 years ago.

I may, however, state for the benefit of my correspondent that about a mile from Cadeby cliffs there stands (or did till recently) a belt of trees called “Hengist’s Rein,” and a field adjoining is popularly regarded as the spot where the great Saxon leader fell and was buried. This field goes by the name of “King’s Grave.”

Then, again, it is asserted, and by many people believed, that Hengist owned and occupied the Saxon fortress of Conisbro’, and that in the year 489 he was there defeated in battle, taken prisoner, and beheaded at the castle. That he lies buried in Conisbro’ is the opinion held by Sir Walter Scott, see his notes in Ivanhoe.

Now, it will be observed that these two accounts are opposed to each other, for Hengist could not die and be buried in both places. I am afraid we shall have to act on the showman’s advice—“pay our money and take our choice.”