kids encyclopedia robot

Church of St John, Cumnock (Ayrshire, Scotland) facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Church of St John, Cumnock
Church of St John the Evangelist, Cumnock.jpg
Location Cumnock, Ayrshire
Country Scotland
Denomination Roman Catholic
History
Founded 1878
Dedicated 1880
Architecture
Functional status Active
Heritage designation Category B
Architect(s) William Burges
Architectural type Church

The Church of St John the Evangelist is a historic Roman Catholic church found in the town of Cumnock, which is in Ayrshire, Scotland. A famous architect named William Burges designed this church. It was built between 1878 and 1880 for the 3rd Marquess of Bute.

What the Church Looks Like

Building Style and Design

The Church of St John the Evangelist was built in a style called "Early Decorated." This is a type of Gothic architecture that was popular in England during the 13th and 14th centuries. The church's design is very similar to another church that William Burges designed, called the Church of All Saints in Murston, Kent.

The main part of the church, called the nave, has four sections. At one end, there's a tower that was planned but never fully finished. This gives the church a unique look.

Interesting Facts and History

A Bright Idea: Early Electricity

The Church of St John the Evangelist holds a special place in history. It was the very first church building in Scotland to be lit up using electricity! This was a big deal back in the late 1800s when electricity was still very new and exciting. Imagine how bright and modern it must have seemed to people at the time!

A Famous Musician's Start

Many years ago, a well-known Scottish composer named James MacMillan used to play the organ at this church. He was a young man at the time, learning and practicing his music. It's cool to think that such a talented musician started his journey in this very building.

kids search engine
Church of St John, Cumnock (Ayrshire, Scotland) Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.