Church of All Saints, Houghton Conquest facts for kids
The Church of All Saints is a very old and important church in Houghton Conquest, a village in Bedfordshire, England. It's officially listed as a Grade I building, which means it's considered a building of exceptional historical importance. This beautiful church was built a long, long time ago, in the 1300s. It has been a place of worship for centuries. In 2018, the church faced a challenge when its lead roof was stolen.
Church Design and Features
This church is quite large and was built in two main styles: the Early English and Decorated styles. It has a main area called the chancel, a nave (where the congregation sits), aisles on the sides, a south porch, and a tall tower. The tower holds six bells and has a special top part called an embattlement. The church was repaired in 1845 to keep it in good condition.
Inside the Church
The church has a beautiful stained-glass window at the east end. It was put in place in 1880 by John William Burgon to remember three people who helped the church. Some of the old walls inside have traces of paintings called frescoes. Even though they are very old, you can still see some of the designs. Above the north doorway, there is a large painting from the 1400s of St Christopher. You can also find a carved stone monument made of alabaster on the north walls of the chancel. There's an altar slab from 1644 and some old, damaged brass plaques. The church records, called the register, date back to the year 1595.
Past Rectors of All Saints
A rector is a priest who is in charge of a church parish. Over many centuries, many rectors have served at the Church of All Saints. Here are a few examples of the people who led the church community:
- William de Lubenham (before 1285)
- Geoffrey Conquest (1285)
- John Conquest (1337)
- John Mason, The Vicar of Ampthill (1409)
- Thomas Archer (1589-1631), who was also a local historian.
- Edward Martin (1632), who later became a dean.
- Zachary Grey (1725), who was also a vicar in Cambridge.
- Henry John Rose (1837-1873), a theologian and historian.
