Christ Church, Sandown facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Christ Church, Sandown
Denomination	Church of England
Churchmanship	Evangelical
Website	http://www.christchurchsandown.org.uk/
History
Dedication	Christ Church
Administration
Parish	Sandown
Diocese	Portsmouth
Province	Canterbury

Christ Church in Sandown is a historic church on the Isle of Wight. It belongs to the Church of England. This church was the very first Church of England building built in Sandown. A famous person, Rev. William Darwin Fox, is buried in its graveyard. He was a naturalist and a clergyman, and also a cousin of the famous scientist Charles Darwin. Many members of his large family are also buried there.

A Look Back: History of Christ Church

When Was Christ Church Built?

Christ Church was built a long time ago, in 1845. The architect who designed it was named Woodman.

The First Church in Sandown

Because it was the first Church of England building in Sandown, it became known as the main church for the town. It has been an important part of the community ever since.

The Princess Royal Chapel

Inside the church, there is a special part called the 'Princess Royal Chapel'. This chapel is named after Princess Victoria. She was the oldest daughter of Queen Victoria. Princess Victoria gave a beautiful window to the chapel, which is why it has her name.

Stories in the Graveyard

The church's graveyard holds many interesting stories. It has a memorial for a ship called HMS Eurydice. This ship sank, and its story was even told in a poem by Gerard Manley Hopkins.

The graveyard also has special war graves. These graves honor 19 service people from the World War I and two from World War II. They were part of the Commonwealth forces. There is also one grave for a sailor from the French Navy who died in World War I.

Working Together: Parish Status

Christ Church is part of a joint parish. This means it works closely with another church nearby, the Church of St. John the Evangelist, Sandown.