Church of St Mary, Stanwell facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St Mary, Stanwell |
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 Church of St Mary, Stanwell
Location in Surrey
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| 51°27′23″N 0°28′48″W / 51.45635°N 0.47990°W | |
| Location | Lord Knyvett Close, Stanwell, Middlesex, TW19 9PF |
| Country | England |
| Denomination | Church of England |
| Churchmanship | Anglo-Catholic |
| History | |
| Status | Active |
| Dedication | St Mary the Virgin |
| Architecture | |
| Functional status | Parish church |
| Heritage designation | Grade I listed |
| Designated | 11 August 1952 |
| Administration | |
| Parish | Stanwell |
| Deanery | Spelthorne |
| Archdeaconry | Archdeaconry of Middlesex |
| Episcopal area | Kensington Episcopal Area |
| Diocese | Diocese of London |
The Church of St Mary the Virgin, Stanwell is an old and beautiful Church of England church. It is located in the village of Stanwell, Surrey. This church was built a very long time ago, in the 12th century! It is so special that it's listed as a grade I listed building. This means it's a super important historical building. The church has cool Norman and Gothic styles. It also features a tall spire that dates back to the 14th century.
About Stanwell Parish
The Church of St Mary is in the historic area of Middlesex. This area is near the town of Staines. In 1930, the Stanwell parish covered about 6 square miles. A church was first set up in Stanwell in 1204. By 1254, there was a vicarage, which is where the vicar lives.
In 1415, the right to choose the parish priest, called the advowson, was given to Chertsey Abbey. However, this right went back to the Crown in 1537. This happened during the time of King Henry VIII. He was dissolving, or closing down, many monasteries at that time.
History of the Church
The Church of St Mary the Virgin in Stanwell is very old. It was built in the 12th century. You can see both Norman and Gothic styles in its design. One of its most famous features is its 14th-century spire.
Inside the church, there are some interesting monuments. You can find a beautiful monument to Lord and Lady Knyvett. There is also a special memorial for Sir Charles Brisbane. He was a brave officer in the Royal Navy. Sir Charles served during the American War of Independence. He also served with famous leaders like Lord Hood and Lord Nelson. His memorial is in the chancel, which is the part of the church near the altar.
On August 11, 1952, the church was officially named a grade I listed building. This means it is one of the most important historic buildings in England.
The Church Today
The Parish of Stanwell is part of the Archdeaconry of Middlesex. This is within the larger Diocese of London.
The church follows the Anglo-Catholic tradition of the Church of England. This tradition has certain beliefs and practices. For example, they do not agree with the ordination of women as priests. Because of this, the parish receives special support. This support is called alternative episcopal oversight. It comes from the Bishop of Fulham, who is currently Jonathan Baker.
Images for kids
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From the west, the spire looks a little tilted.
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The church from the east side.
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The lych gate at the entrance to the churchyard.
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Old Yew trees growing in the churchyard.
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Beautiful Florentine tapestry work on a kneeler with a St George's Cross.
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The tomb of Lord Knyvett inside the church.
