Church of St Mary, North Petherton facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St Mary |
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| General information | |
| Town or city | North Petherton, Somerset |
| Country | England |
| Coordinates | 51°05′32″N 3°00′53″W / 51.0922°N 3.0148°W |
| Completed | 15th century |
The Church of St Mary in North Petherton, Somerset, England, is a very old and important building. It was built mostly in the 15th century. This church is so special that it is listed as a Grade I building. This means it has great historical and architectural importance.
However, the church is currently on the Heritage at Risk Register. This is because parts of its roof and a wall on the north side need repairs. Experts are working to make sure this beautiful church stays safe for many more years.
History of the Church
There was a church on this spot even before the Norman Conquest. That was when William the Conqueror came to England in 1066. From the 12th century, the land belonged to a religious group called Buckland Priory.
The church building you see today was mostly built around 1490. This was when the town of North Petherton was growing. But some parts of the church are even older, from the 13th century. This shows how long the church has been a part of the community.
The Amazing Tower
The church has a very tall and decorated tower. It stands 112 feet (34 metres) high. A famous expert named Nikolaus Pevsner said it was one of the best towers in the whole county. The tower was finished around 1508.
Inside the tower, there are six large bells. These bells are used for a special type of bell ringing called "change ringing." This is where the bells are rung in a changing pattern. The tower also has a clock that was made in Bridgwater in 1807. Look closely at the stonework on the tower. You might spot some funny stone carvings called hunky punks. These are often shaped like animals or strange creatures.
Inside the Church
When you go inside the Church of St Mary, you will see many interesting things. There is a special balcony called a minstrel gallery. It was built in 1623. In the past, musicians or singers might have performed there.
You can also see a beautifully carved wooden pulpit. This is a raised platform where the priest gives sermons. It dates back to the 15th century. A shiny brass chandelier was added to the church in 1984. It helps light up the inside.
Church Community
The Church of St Mary is part of a larger group of churches. This group is called the Alfred Jewel benefice. A benefice is like a cluster of churches that share a priest. This group is part of the Sedgemoor deanery, which is a bigger area for churches.
See also
- List of Grade I listed buildings in Sedgemoor
- List of towers in Somerset
- List of ecclesiastical parishes in the Diocese of Bath and Wells
