All of these Spire monuments are to be found in the Old Ipswich Cemetery, where the number of them, seem to have made them a very popular choice.
The word 'Spire' is derived from the Old English word 'Spir', meaning a sprout, or shoot of grass.
Symbolically, Spires served two functions. Firstly, a Spire proclaimed a martial power, with it's spear like point giving the impression of strength. Secondly, was is it's connection with the celestial, as it reached up toward the skies and declared its connection with heaven.
The Spire was seen as a symbol of piety, as well as a symbol of wealth and prestige.