Ymar of Reculver was an Anglo-Saxon Benedictine monk who lived during the early 9th century. He resided at Reculver, where he was eventually killed by Danish warriors. His name is potentially linked to the origin of the place name Margate. Following his death around 830, his remains were moved from his original monastery to a different location in Margate.
Life and death
As a member of the Benedictine order, Ymar served at the monastery in Reculver. His life ended when he was killed by Danish invaders. Local tradition suggests that his name might have influenced the naming of the nearby town of Margate.
Veneration and tradition
According to local legend, Ymar requested to be interred at St John the Baptist's church in Margate. Before 1407, his body was transferred from Reculver to this parish church to fulfill that wish. Tradition holds that an ancient stone coffin lid located at the church belongs to him.