Church of All Saints, Monksilver facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of All Saints |
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Church of All Saints in 2007
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| General information | |
| Town or city | Monksilver |
| Country | England |
| Coordinates | 51°07′43″N 3°19′35″W / 51.1286°N 3.3263°W |
| Completed | 12th century |
The Church of All Saints is a very old church located in Monksilver, a village in Somerset, England. It was built way back in the 12th century, which means it's over 800 years old! Because it's so old and important, English Heritage has given it a special status called a Grade I listed building. This means it's one of the most important historic buildings in the country. The church also has a tall, square tower at its western end, which was added later in the 14th century.
Contents
Exploring All Saints Church
This section will tell you more about the amazing design and history of the Church of All Saints. You'll learn about its old stones, special features, and even a famous wedding that happened here!
Church Design and Materials
The Church of All Saints is made from red sandstone, which gives it a warm, earthy color. Its roof is covered with slate tiles, and some even have decorative patterns. You can still see parts of the original 12th-century stone walls, showing just how ancient this building is.
The church has a main area called the nave, which is where people sit. It also has a south aisle, a chancel (the area near the altar), a south chapel, and a south porch.
The Tower and Bells
The church's tower, built in the 14th century, has three levels. On top, it has crenelations, which are like the battlements you might see on a castle. These were added much later, between 1843 and 1863, during a big restoration project.
Inside the tower, there are five bells! One of these bells was made by Roger Semson between 1530 and 1570. Imagine how many times those bells have rung over the centuries!
Inside the Church
When you step inside, you'll notice the walls are whitewashed, making the space feel bright. The roof of the nave is a special type called a wagon roof, which looks like the inside of a covered wagon. Experts believe this roof might be from the 13th century.
Near the door, there's an alms box from 1634. This box was used to collect donations for people in need. You can also spot a 12th-century window on the north side of the chancel.
The church has many other old and interesting features:
- The pulpit, where sermons are given, is from the 16th century.
- The screen, which separates parts of the church, is from the Jacobean period (early 17th century).
- The lectern, where readings are done, might be even older.
The south aisle of the church is famous for its "entertaining gargoyles." These are carved stone figures, often with funny or scary faces, that also act as waterspouts.
Churchyard Features
Outside the church, in the churchyard, stands a very old yew tree. People believe this tree was planted around 1770, making it over 250 years old! There's also a historic cross in the churchyard, dated 1863, which is also a protected historic structure.
A Famous Wedding
In 1583, the Church of All Saints was the special place where Sir Francis Drake got married to his second wife, Elizabeth Sydenham. Elizabeth came from a nearby place called Combe Sydenham. Sir Francis Drake was a famous English explorer and naval commander, known for sailing around the world!
See also
- Grade I listed buildings in West Somerset
- List of Somerset towers
- List of ecclesiastical parishes in the Diocese of Bath and Wells
Images for kids
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Church of All Saints in 2007
