Church of All Saints, Aisholt facts for kids
Quick facts for kids All Saints Church |
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| Location | Aisholt, Somerset, England |
| Built | 14th century |
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Listed Building – Grade II*
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| Official name: Church of All Saints | |
| Designated | 29 March 1963 |
| Reference no. | 1178112 |
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All Saints Church in Aisholt, Somerset, England, is a very old church. It is the local church for the area of Aisholt. This church is part of the larger group of churches called the Quantock Villages Benefice. It is also a special building, listed as Grade II*, which means it is very important historically.
Contents
A Look Back in Time
The oldest part of All Saints Church is the arch leading to the chancel. This arch was built way back in the 14th century, which is over 600 years ago! Most of the rest of the church was built in the 15th century. Some small changes and repairs were made in the 1890s.
What the Church Looks Like
The church is made of stone and has a slate roof. It has a main area called the nave and a chancel at the end. There is also a small room called a vestry and a side area known as a south aisle with a porch. The tall, two-stage tower at the west end is supported by strong diagonal buttresses.
Interesting Features Inside
The church has several unique and old features:
- A squint: This is a small hole or opening in the wall. It allowed people in the south aisle to see the altar during services.
- A hatchment: This is a painted Coat of Arms from the 17th century. It hangs on the wall above the door.
- A medieval parish chest: This chest was carved from a single log of wood. It was used to store important church documents and valuables.
- A piscina: This is a special basin in the chancel. It was used for washing the sacred vessels after communion.
- A 15th-century font: This is an octagonal (eight-sided) stone basin. It is used for baptisms.
People Connected to the Church
Many interesting people have been linked to All Saints Church over the years.
Past Church Leaders
William Holland was a curate (a type of church leader) here. He worked at the church in the late 1700s and early 1800s. He was also famous for keeping a detailed diary about his life.
Famous Visitors and Worshippers
Several well-known people have visited or worshipped at this church:
- The poet Henry Newbolt owned a house nearby called The Old Schoolhouse.
- A special plaque inside the church remembers Olive Willis. She was an important person in education.
- Poet and writer Anne Ridler was a student of Olive Willis at Downe House School.
- Charles Williams was a theologian, poet, and novelist. He was also part of a famous group of writers called the Inklings.
Fun Fact
All Saints Church even appeared in a pop video! It was for the band Swing out Sister and had a theme related to the poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge.
See also
- List of ecclesiastical parishes in the Diocese of Bath and Wells
