Church of St Leonard, Rodney Stoke facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St Leonard |
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| General information | |
| Town or city | Rodney Stoke |
| Country | England |
| Coordinates | 51°14′42″N 2°44′29″W / 51.2449°N 2.7414°W |
| Completed | c. 1175 |
The Church of St Leonard in Rodney Stoke, Somerset, England, is a very old and important building. It was built around the year 1175. Today, it is recognized as a Grade I listed building, which means it's considered a building of exceptional historical and architectural interest.
Contents
Exploring the Church of St Leonard's History
The Church of St Leonard has a long and interesting past, dating back to the 12th century. Over hundreds of years, it has been a central part of the community in Rodney Stoke.
Inside the Church: A Look at the Screen
When you step inside the Church of St Leonard, one of the most notable features is a special screen. This screen was added to the church in 1624. It was a gift from Sir Edward Rodney, an important person from that time. The screen has detailed carvings, including a picture of St Erasmus, an early Christian saint.
Victorian Changes to the Church
Like many old churches, St Leonard's underwent some changes in the 1870s. This period is known as the Victorian restoration. During this time, churches were often updated and repaired to fit the styles and needs of the Victorian era. As part of these updates, a special stove was put into a pit in the floor to help heat the building.
The Church's Role in the Community
The Church of St Leonard is part of a larger church area called a benefice. This benefice includes Rodney Stoke and the nearby village of Draycott. It is also part of the Axbridge deanery, which is a group of churches in the local area. This shows how the church connects to other churches and communities around it.
Notable People Buried at St Leonard's
Many people who were important to the history of Rodney Stoke have been buried at the Church of St Leonard. Their graves are a reminder of the families and individuals who lived in the area over the centuries.
- Sir Edward Rodney (1590–1657)
- Anne Rodney (1599–1630)
- Frances Rodney (d. 1659)
