Church of All Saints, Castle Cary facts for kids
Quick facts for kids All Saints Church |
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| Location | Castle Cary, Somerset, England |
| Built | 1470 |
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Listed Building – Grade II*
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| Official name: Church of All Saints | |
| Designated | 24 March 1961 |
| Reference no. | 1056241 |
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All Saints Church is a very old and special church in Castle Cary, a town in Somerset, England. It was built way back in 1470 and is famous for its tall, pointy steeple. This church is so important that it's officially called a Grade II* listed building, which means it's protected because of its history and beauty.
The church is part of the local group of churches in Castle Cary and Ansford. This area is looked after by the church leaders in Wells.
Contents
Church History: A Look Back in Time
The story of All Saints Church goes back a long way. There was a church here even in Saxon times, which was a very early period in English history. However, the wooden parts of that first building are no longer here.
The church you see today was built around 1470. It's made in a style called Perpendicular Gothic, which means it has tall windows and strong, straight lines.
Changes Through the Years
During the English Civil War, a big conflict in England, the church was damaged. Its organ, a large musical instrument, was also broken.
A famous person named James Woodforde wrote about life in this local church in his diary. He was born nearby in Ansford, where his father was the vicar, or priest. You can learn more about his life and writings at the Castle Cary and District Museum.
In the 1880s, the church was fixed up and improved by an architect named Benjamin Ferrey. This type of work is called a Victorian restoration. He made the main part of the church, called the nave, longer. This created more "free" seats for everyone. He also made the church's tower taller.
Church Design: What It's Made Of
The church building is made from local stone. Special cut stones from Doulting Stone Quarry were used for details. The roof is made of slate, and the edges of the roof have a special design called battlemented parapets, which look a bit like the top of a castle wall.
The Tower and Its Bells
The church has a tall tower with three sections. Inside the tower are six bells. These bells were made in 1760 by the Bilbie family, who were famous bell makers.
Inside the Church: Old Treasures
When you go inside All Saints Church, you can see some very old items. The baptismal font, which is used for baptisms, and the wooden pulpit, where the priest gives sermons, both date back to the 15th century. That means they are as old as the church itself!
Churchyard: A Historic Spot
Outside the church, in the churchyard, there is a monument called the Cosenes monument. It's from the 16th century, making it very old. This monument is currently on the Heritage at Risk Register. This means it's an important historical site that needs special care to protect it for the future.
See also
- List of ecclesiastical parishes in the Diocese of Bath and Wells
