Open/Close Toolbox
Copyright is retained by the photographer and/or contributor. Please do not reuse without permission.
Format: Photograph
Copyright
Copyright is retained by the photographer and/or contributor. Please do not reuse without permission.
Menu
Metal coffin, Stafford cemetery *PHOTO ALBUM*
Expand/collapse
About this image
DescriptionThis is the elusive 'metal coffin' at Stafford cenetary which i took photos of recently. In a Google search, I found this
A rusty iron coffin in the crypt of St Bride’s church, just off Fleet Street.
In the late 18th and early 19th century bodysnatching across the city was common. Bodysnatchers or ‘resurrectionists’ would dig up recently buried bodies from graveyards to sell to anatomists and doctors at London’s hospitals for dissection.
Until the Metropolitan Police was set up in 1829, official policing of this was ineffective, so families often took matters into their own hands. For example they might bury their relative (if they could afford to do so) in a, harder to break into, iron coffin…
The last photo is of that London coffin. So I wonder, is our local one that so many people have been baffled about, one who contained a body of a loved one who the family wanted to keep super safe?Map[1] ContributorBronwyn Wafer
A rusty iron coffin in the crypt of St Bride’s church, just off Fleet Street.
In the late 18th and early 19th century bodysnatching across the city was common. Bodysnatchers or ‘resurrectionists’ would dig up recently buried bodies from graveyards to sell to anatomists and doctors at London’s hospitals for dissection.
Until the Metropolitan Police was set up in 1829, official policing of this was ineffective, so families often took matters into their own hands. For example they might bury their relative (if they could afford to do so) in a, harder to break into, iron coffin…
The last photo is of that London coffin. So I wonder, is our local one that so many people have been baffled about, one who contained a body of a loved one who the family wanted to keep super safe?Map[1] ContributorBronwyn Wafer
Shown in this image
Location (city or town)StaffordEventMetal coffin, Stafford cemetery
From Facebook
CommentsJayden
I was allways under the impression that Was a skirt/sleeve to sit in the mouth of the hole due to the grounds were soft and so you couldnt push the sides in while trying to to lower ya mate in to the hole
TylerCroft AmyAlexis Snugglebug
Oh wow thats interesting, goldsborough is our next camping trip over the Christmas hoildays sounds like an interesting place
Dave Haigh
It’s the body of Satoshi Nakamoto ?
Alan Beck
In the midst of death, commodity.
Brent Symons
Also handy to keep vamps out
Michelle Gaultier
I heard many years ago he was a wealthy man buried wearing all of his gold thats why his metal coffin was sealed shut.I have visited tge Stafford cemetery for many years this coffin was always over to the right hand side under foliage but was still visible.It looks like it has been moved out into the open recently since the cemetery has had a tidy up.
Joss Bright
I think it was the body of a Scettrini? I'm sure I have read and article about it He is a relative.
Dave Haigh
It’s the body of Satoshi Nakamoto ?
Bronwyn Wafer
Author
Dave Haigh that sounds Japnese not Chinese?
Judith Stopforth
There is an excellent book called Explore the Cemeteries of Westland and Buller that has a small piece on Stafford cemetery.
The book covers every cemetery from Karamea to Haast
TylerCroft AmyAlexis Snugglebug
Oh wow thats interesting, goldsborough is our next camping trip over the Christmas hoildays sounds like an interesting place
Jayden
I was allways under the impression that Was a skirt/sleeve to sit in the mouth of the hole due to the grounds were soft and so you couldnt push the sides in while trying to to lower ya mate in to the hole
Amy Franks
Sorry but where is the cemetery at Goldsborough.
Wendy Ross
I've always thought it spooky. I think I did learn it's purpose once but what it was is alluding my old memory now. Someone out there will know something about it.
John Underwood
BRONY i was told thst they were used to ship the chinese diggers back to China we a ship came into Hokitika and they were supposed to put there gold in them for there families back in China
Bec Gaskell
Absolutely fascinating Bronwyn Wafer ! There must be some serious bad energy for those stealing from resting places!
Thanks for sharing!
Deane Blanchfield
This is not to far from goldsborough
May be an image of map and text that says '6:28 100% Stafford StaffordCemete... Cemete... findagrave.com 焼ん Added by AddedbyDonStowell Don Stowell Added by Don Stowell Show more Trade Tested Heavy Duty Steel Shelvi. X Unit(183cm 183cm 54Cm) Adjustable Shelves, Powder Coated Finish, 400Kg Load Capacity ・…マ Get organized with thes.. ||I <'
Laura Mills Detlaff
Admin
Admins https://westcoast.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/35297
Metal coffin, Stafford cemetery *PHOTO ALBUM*
WESTCOAST.RECOLLECT.CO.NZ
Metal coffin, Stafford cemetery *PHOTO ALBUM*
Metal coffin, Stafford cemetery *PHOTO ALBUM*
Brent Symons
Also handy to keep vamps out
Michelle Gaultier
I heard many years ago he was a wealthy man buried wearing all of his gold thats why his metal coffin was sealed shut.I have visited tge Stafford cemetery for many years this coffin was always over to the right hand side under foliage but was still visible.It looks like it has been moved out into the open recently since the cemetery has had a tidy up.
Joss Bright
I think it was the body of a Scettrini? I'm sure I have read and article about it He is a relative.
Kenneth John Dalzell
Mick johnson who had the wheel of fortune gold claim at goldsborough found the coffin after a big flood behind the claim.in it was a body of a priest and he was re-buried at stafford in a new casket,the iron one remaining for all to see.
Judith Stopforth
There is an excellent book called Explore the Cemeteries of Westland and Buller that has a small piece on Stafford cemetery.
The book covers every cemetery from Karamea to Haast
Melanie Boyd
Just ask my 93 year old father about this. He said that the coffins were on
the SS Ventnor which sunk off the Hokianga harbour in 1902. He said allegedly this was a spare and there was no one buried in it.
It is/was situated very near his great grandparents (my great great grandparents) graves.
Kenneth John Dalzell
Mick johnson who had the wheel of fortune gold claim at goldsborough found the coffin after a big flood behind the claim.in it was a body of a priest and he was re-buried at stafford in a new casket,the iron one remaining for all to see.
Reply
Max Johnson
Kenneth John Dalzell yes that was my grand dad Ken
Kenneth John Dalzell
Max Johnson he taught us how to pan for gold along with ron king just before shantytown started and in the 60s the coffin was out the back of their shed.
Max Johnson
Kenneth John Dalzell yes I spent all my school holidays out at the claim with granddad. Shantytown got all its dirt and gold from Goldsborough witch they put small gold in there pans for paning. I remember the coffin well
Kenneth John Dalzell
Max Johnson yes have fond memories of fossicking for gold and greenstone out there.your grandad told me of a rich spot downstream of the bridge and in 2008 comenced mining with good results.
Max Johnson
Kenneth John Dalzell yes he told me as well but I was to young and when I grew I moved away and forgot about it he really new good spots
Kenneth John Dalzell
Max Johnson he probably witnessed the end of mining and saw a lot of worked and unworked ground,certainly knew his stuff.
Max Johnson
Kenneth John Dalzell he did for sure it’s been great chatting someone that new him thanks mate he also worked on the dredge on the taramakau river after he left the sea
Karen Shields
MorTiisha Leiigh
4d
Reply
Wendy Ross
I've always thought it spooky. I think I did learn it's purpose once but what it was is alluding my old memory now. Someone out there will know something about it.
4d
Reply
John Underwood
BRONY i was told thst they were used to ship the chinese diggers back to China we a ship came into Hokitika and they were supposed to put there gold in them for there families back in China
Absolutely fascinating Bronwyn Wafer ! There must be some serious bad energy for those stealing from resting places!
Thanks for sharing!
4d
Reply
Judith Stopforth
There is an excellent book called Explore the Cemeteries of Westland and Buller that has a small piece on Stafford cemetery.
The book covers every cemetery from Karamea to Haast
https://westcoast.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/35297
Metal coffin, Stafford cemetery *PHOTO ALBUM*
Deane Blanchfield
This is not to far from goldsborough
May be an image of map and text that says '6:28 100% Stafford StaffordCemete... Cemete... findagrave.com 焼ん Added by AddedbyDonStowell Don Stowell Added by Don Stowell Show more Trade Tested Heavy Duty Steel Shelvi. X Unit(183cm 183cm 54Cm) Adjustable Shelves, Powder Coated Finish, 400Kg Load Capacity ・…マ Get organized with thes.. ||I <'
4d
Reply
Amy Franks
Sorry but where is the cemetery at Goldsborough.
4d
Reply
Jayden
I was allways under the impression that Was a skirt/sleeve to sit in the mouth of the hole due to the grounds were soft and so you couldnt push the sides in while trying to to lower ya mate in to the hole
4d
Reply
TylerCroft AmyAlexis Snugglebug
Oh wow thats interesting, goldsborough is our next camping trip over the Christmas hoildays sounds like an interesting place
4d
Reply
Dave Haigh
It’s the body of Satoshi Nakamoto ?
Alan Beck
In the midst of death, commodity.
Brent Symons
Also handy to keep vamps out
Michelle Gaultier
I heard many years ago he was a wealthy man buried wearing all of his gold thats why his metal coffin was sealed shut.I have visited tge Stafford cemetery for many years this coffin was always over to the right hand side under foliage but was still visible.It looks like it has been moved out into the open recently since the cemetery has had a tidy up.
Joss Bright
I think it was the body of a Scettrini? I'm sure I have read and article about it He is a relative.
Jean Laker
Joss Bright. I'm. A. Relative. Of. The. Scettrini. Family. As. Well
Bronwyn Wafer
Author
The surname Scettrini has its roots in Italy, particularly in regions where Italian surnames often reflect geographical features, occupations, or personal characteristics. The name is believed to derive from the Italian word scettro, meaning scepter, which historically symbolizes authority and power. This suggests that the original bearers of the surname may have held positions of influence or governance, possibly linked to local nobility or leadership roles in their communities. Over time, the surname Scettrini may have evolved through various dialects and regional influences, reflecting the rich tapestry of Italian history and culture.
Culturally, the surname Scettrini may exhibit variations in spelling and pronunciation across different Italian regions and among Italian-speaking communities worldwide. For instance, in some dialects, it might be pronounced with slight phonetic differences, while in other cultures, particularly in areas with significant Italian diaspora, the name may have adapted to local linguistic norms. The spread of the surname can be attributed to migration patterns, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries, when many Italians emigrated to countries such as the United States, Argentina, and Australia, bringing their surnames and cultural heritage with them.
Notable figures associated with the surname Scettrini may not be widely documented in historical texts, but the name carries a sense of dignity and tradition that resonates within Italian communities. The historical context of the surname reflects the broader narrative of Italian identity, where family names often encapsulate stories of lineage, occupation, and regional pride. As such, the Scettrini surname serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of Italian heritage and the diverse paths taken by its bearers throughout history.
Joss Bright
Jean Laker Your Grandmother was a Scettrini
Jean Laker
Joss Bright Im. Not. Sure. Joe. Payn. My. Late. Pop. Was. Related. Somehow
Joss Bright
Jean Laker My Grandmother was a Scettrini.
I was allways under the impression that Was a skirt/sleeve to sit in the mouth of the hole due to the grounds were soft and so you couldnt push the sides in while trying to to lower ya mate in to the hole
TylerCroft AmyAlexis Snugglebug
Oh wow thats interesting, goldsborough is our next camping trip over the Christmas hoildays sounds like an interesting place
Dave Haigh
It’s the body of Satoshi Nakamoto ?
Alan Beck
In the midst of death, commodity.
Brent Symons
Also handy to keep vamps out
Michelle Gaultier
I heard many years ago he was a wealthy man buried wearing all of his gold thats why his metal coffin was sealed shut.I have visited tge Stafford cemetery for many years this coffin was always over to the right hand side under foliage but was still visible.It looks like it has been moved out into the open recently since the cemetery has had a tidy up.
Joss Bright
I think it was the body of a Scettrini? I'm sure I have read and article about it He is a relative.
Dave Haigh
It’s the body of Satoshi Nakamoto ?
Bronwyn Wafer
Author
Dave Haigh that sounds Japnese not Chinese?
Judith Stopforth
There is an excellent book called Explore the Cemeteries of Westland and Buller that has a small piece on Stafford cemetery.
The book covers every cemetery from Karamea to Haast
TylerCroft AmyAlexis Snugglebug
Oh wow thats interesting, goldsborough is our next camping trip over the Christmas hoildays sounds like an interesting place
Jayden
I was allways under the impression that Was a skirt/sleeve to sit in the mouth of the hole due to the grounds were soft and so you couldnt push the sides in while trying to to lower ya mate in to the hole
Amy Franks
Sorry but where is the cemetery at Goldsborough.
Wendy Ross
I've always thought it spooky. I think I did learn it's purpose once but what it was is alluding my old memory now. Someone out there will know something about it.
John Underwood
BRONY i was told thst they were used to ship the chinese diggers back to China we a ship came into Hokitika and they were supposed to put there gold in them for there families back in China
Bec Gaskell
Absolutely fascinating Bronwyn Wafer ! There must be some serious bad energy for those stealing from resting places!
Thanks for sharing!
Deane Blanchfield
This is not to far from goldsborough
May be an image of map and text that says '6:28 100% Stafford StaffordCemete... Cemete... findagrave.com 焼ん Added by AddedbyDonStowell Don Stowell Added by Don Stowell Show more Trade Tested Heavy Duty Steel Shelvi. X Unit(183cm 183cm 54Cm) Adjustable Shelves, Powder Coated Finish, 400Kg Load Capacity ・…マ Get organized with thes.. ||I <'
Laura Mills Detlaff
Admin
Admins https://westcoast.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/35297
Metal coffin, Stafford cemetery *PHOTO ALBUM*
WESTCOAST.RECOLLECT.CO.NZ
Metal coffin, Stafford cemetery *PHOTO ALBUM*
Metal coffin, Stafford cemetery *PHOTO ALBUM*
Brent Symons
Also handy to keep vamps out
Michelle Gaultier
I heard many years ago he was a wealthy man buried wearing all of his gold thats why his metal coffin was sealed shut.I have visited tge Stafford cemetery for many years this coffin was always over to the right hand side under foliage but was still visible.It looks like it has been moved out into the open recently since the cemetery has had a tidy up.
Joss Bright
I think it was the body of a Scettrini? I'm sure I have read and article about it He is a relative.
Kenneth John Dalzell
Mick johnson who had the wheel of fortune gold claim at goldsborough found the coffin after a big flood behind the claim.in it was a body of a priest and he was re-buried at stafford in a new casket,the iron one remaining for all to see.
Judith Stopforth
There is an excellent book called Explore the Cemeteries of Westland and Buller that has a small piece on Stafford cemetery.
The book covers every cemetery from Karamea to Haast
Melanie Boyd
Just ask my 93 year old father about this. He said that the coffins were on
the SS Ventnor which sunk off the Hokianga harbour in 1902. He said allegedly this was a spare and there was no one buried in it.
It is/was situated very near his great grandparents (my great great grandparents) graves.
Kenneth John Dalzell
Mick johnson who had the wheel of fortune gold claim at goldsborough found the coffin after a big flood behind the claim.in it was a body of a priest and he was re-buried at stafford in a new casket,the iron one remaining for all to see.
Reply
Max Johnson
Kenneth John Dalzell yes that was my grand dad Ken
Kenneth John Dalzell
Max Johnson he taught us how to pan for gold along with ron king just before shantytown started and in the 60s the coffin was out the back of their shed.
Max Johnson
Kenneth John Dalzell yes I spent all my school holidays out at the claim with granddad. Shantytown got all its dirt and gold from Goldsborough witch they put small gold in there pans for paning. I remember the coffin well
Kenneth John Dalzell
Max Johnson yes have fond memories of fossicking for gold and greenstone out there.your grandad told me of a rich spot downstream of the bridge and in 2008 comenced mining with good results.
Max Johnson
Kenneth John Dalzell yes he told me as well but I was to young and when I grew I moved away and forgot about it he really new good spots
Kenneth John Dalzell
Max Johnson he probably witnessed the end of mining and saw a lot of worked and unworked ground,certainly knew his stuff.
Max Johnson
Kenneth John Dalzell he did for sure it’s been great chatting someone that new him thanks mate he also worked on the dredge on the taramakau river after he left the sea
Karen Shields
MorTiisha Leiigh
4d
Reply
Wendy Ross
I've always thought it spooky. I think I did learn it's purpose once but what it was is alluding my old memory now. Someone out there will know something about it.
4d
Reply
John Underwood
BRONY i was told thst they were used to ship the chinese diggers back to China we a ship came into Hokitika and they were supposed to put there gold in them for there families back in China
Absolutely fascinating Bronwyn Wafer ! There must be some serious bad energy for those stealing from resting places!
Thanks for sharing!
4d
Reply
Judith Stopforth
There is an excellent book called Explore the Cemeteries of Westland and Buller that has a small piece on Stafford cemetery.
The book covers every cemetery from Karamea to Haast
https://westcoast.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/35297
Metal coffin, Stafford cemetery *PHOTO ALBUM*
Deane Blanchfield
This is not to far from goldsborough
May be an image of map and text that says '6:28 100% Stafford StaffordCemete... Cemete... findagrave.com 焼ん Added by AddedbyDonStowell Don Stowell Added by Don Stowell Show more Trade Tested Heavy Duty Steel Shelvi. X Unit(183cm 183cm 54Cm) Adjustable Shelves, Powder Coated Finish, 400Kg Load Capacity ・…マ Get organized with thes.. ||I <'
4d
Reply
Amy Franks
Sorry but where is the cemetery at Goldsborough.
4d
Reply
Jayden
I was allways under the impression that Was a skirt/sleeve to sit in the mouth of the hole due to the grounds were soft and so you couldnt push the sides in while trying to to lower ya mate in to the hole
4d
Reply
TylerCroft AmyAlexis Snugglebug
Oh wow thats interesting, goldsborough is our next camping trip over the Christmas hoildays sounds like an interesting place
4d
Reply
Dave Haigh
It’s the body of Satoshi Nakamoto ?
Alan Beck
In the midst of death, commodity.
Brent Symons
Also handy to keep vamps out
Michelle Gaultier
I heard many years ago he was a wealthy man buried wearing all of his gold thats why his metal coffin was sealed shut.I have visited tge Stafford cemetery for many years this coffin was always over to the right hand side under foliage but was still visible.It looks like it has been moved out into the open recently since the cemetery has had a tidy up.
Joss Bright
I think it was the body of a Scettrini? I'm sure I have read and article about it He is a relative.
Jean Laker
Joss Bright. I'm. A. Relative. Of. The. Scettrini. Family. As. Well
Bronwyn Wafer
Author
The surname Scettrini has its roots in Italy, particularly in regions where Italian surnames often reflect geographical features, occupations, or personal characteristics. The name is believed to derive from the Italian word scettro, meaning scepter, which historically symbolizes authority and power. This suggests that the original bearers of the surname may have held positions of influence or governance, possibly linked to local nobility or leadership roles in their communities. Over time, the surname Scettrini may have evolved through various dialects and regional influences, reflecting the rich tapestry of Italian history and culture.
Culturally, the surname Scettrini may exhibit variations in spelling and pronunciation across different Italian regions and among Italian-speaking communities worldwide. For instance, in some dialects, it might be pronounced with slight phonetic differences, while in other cultures, particularly in areas with significant Italian diaspora, the name may have adapted to local linguistic norms. The spread of the surname can be attributed to migration patterns, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries, when many Italians emigrated to countries such as the United States, Argentina, and Australia, bringing their surnames and cultural heritage with them.
Notable figures associated with the surname Scettrini may not be widely documented in historical texts, but the name carries a sense of dignity and tradition that resonates within Italian communities. The historical context of the surname reflects the broader narrative of Italian identity, where family names often encapsulate stories of lineage, occupation, and regional pride. As such, the Scettrini surname serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of Italian heritage and the diverse paths taken by its bearers throughout history.
Joss Bright
Jean Laker Your Grandmother was a Scettrini
Jean Laker
Joss Bright Im. Not. Sure. Joe. Payn. My. Late. Pop. Was. Related. Somehow
Joss Bright
Jean Laker My Grandmother was a Scettrini.
Editing is temporarily disabled
Cancel Edit
Click on the image to add
a tag or press ESC to cancel
a tag or press ESC to cancel
West Coast New Zealand History (22nd Sep 2025). Metal coffin, Stafford cemetery *PHOTO ALBUM*. In Website West Coast New Zealand History. Retrieved 20th Mar 2026 11:15, from https://westcoast.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/35297