Church of St James the Less, Hambridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St James the Less |
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| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Church of England |
| Ecclesiastical or organizational status | Active |
| Year consecrated | 1844 |
| Location | |
| Location | Hambridge, Somerset, England |
| Architecture | |
| Architect(s) | Benjamin Ferrey |
| Architectural type | Church |
The Church of St James the Less is a special church in Hambridge, Somerset, England. It's part of the Church of England. A famous architect named Benjamin Ferrey designed it, and it was built between 1842 and 1844. This church is so important that it's been a Grade II listed building since 1988. Right next to it, there's an old school building from 1844, which is also a listed building!
Contents
History of the Church
Why Was the Church Built?
The Church of St James the Less was built for the people of Hambridge and Westport. Before this church existed, people had to travel a long way. Their closest church, St Andrew in Curry Rivel, was up to three and a half miles away!
Building the Church
The church was designed by Benjamin Ferrey, an architect from London. A builder named Mr. Maurice Davis from Langport helped construct it. The land for the church cost £140, and the building itself cost about £800. A group called the Bath and Wells Diocesan Church Building Association gave £120 to help.
The first stone was laid on June 20, 1842. The church and its graveyard were officially opened on February 2, 1844. This special ceremony was led by the Bishop of Salisbury, Edward Denison.
Later Repairs
In 1957 and 1958, the church needed some major repairs. This project cost about £1,500. A big event called a bazaar was held in October 1958. It helped raise money to pay off the remaining £144 debt.
About the Church's Look
What It's Made Of
St James Church is built from a type of stone called White lias. It also uses Ham stone for details, and its roofs are made of slate. The church is designed in a style called the Decorated style.
Parts of the Church
The church has several main parts. It has a long main hall called a nave with five sections. There's also a chancel, which is the area near the altar. At the west end, there's a tower. On the north side, there's a room for the organ. On the south side, you'll find a room for the clergy (vestry) and a porch.
The Tower and Bell
The tower has two levels and a flat top with decorative walls called battlements. It also has tall, pointed decorations called pinnacles and stone carvings called gargoyles. A strong support called a diagonal buttress helps hold up the west side. Inside the tower, there is one bell. The church was designed to have seats for 246 people.
Special Window
In 1866, a beautiful stained glass window was added to the church. It was made to remember a man named John Appold, who was an engineer. The window was created by O'Connor and paid for by Rev. C. S. Grueber and his friends.
