Church of St Bartholomew, Notgrove facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St Bartholomew |
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| Denomination | Church of England |
| Architecture | |
| Heritage designation | Grade I listed building |
| Administration | |
| Diocese | Gloucester |
| Province | Canterbury |
The Church of St Bartholomew is an old church in a village called Notgrove, located in the beautiful Cotswold District of Gloucestershire, England. It was first built way back in the 1100s! This church is so special that it's officially protected as a Grade I listed building, which means it's considered very important for its history and architecture. It belongs to the Church of England.
Contents
Discover the Church's History
This historic church was originally built in the 12th century, around the 1100s. Over time, it grew and changed. A big expansion happened in the 14th century, which was the 1300s. Later, between 1871 and 1873, the church had a major "Victorian restoration." This means it was repaired and updated during the Victorian era.
From St Mary to St Bartholomew
Interestingly, the church was first dedicated to St Mary. This means it was named in her honor. However, in the 18th century (the 1700s), its dedication was changed to St Bartholomew. Today, the church is part of the Northleach benefice, which is a group of churches. It falls under the Diocese of Gloucester, a larger church area.
Exploring the Church's Architecture
The Church of St Bartholomew is made from limestone, a type of rock. It has several main parts. There's the chancel, which is the area around the altar, and a small vestry next to it. The main part of the church where people sit is called the nave. On one side, there's a north transept (a part that sticks out) and a north aisle (a side section). At the west end, there's a tall tower with a spire on top.
Special Features Outside
Look closely at the south wall of the tower, and you'll find a sundial. This old clock uses the sun to tell the time. Its pointer, called a gnomon, has a pretty 'Fleur de lys' design. On the outside wall of the chancel, there's a carving that shows the crucifixion. Experts believe this carving is from the 14th century, making it very old!
Treasures Inside the Church
Step inside, and you'll discover even more history. The font, where baptisms take place, dates all the way back to the 12th century. There's also a pulpit from the 17th century, where sermons are given. The screen separating the chancel from the nave has beautiful carvings from the 14th or 15th century. Some of the wooden pews, where people sit, are from the time of Elizabeth I, who was queen in the 1500s! Behind the altar, you'll see a reredos, which is a decorated screen. This one is from the 14th century, but it has been damaged at some point in history.
While there is some very old stained glass in the windows, most of the colorful glass you see was made by a company called Clayton and Bell during the Victorian era. The church also contains many old statues and tombs of the Whittington family. They were the lords of the manor (important landowners) in Notgrove. This includes some relatives of the famous Dick Whittington!
