Church of St Michael, Blackford facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St Michael |
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| Location | Blackford, Somerset, England |
| Built | 11th or 12th century |
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Listed Building – Grade II*
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| Official name: Church of St Michael | |
| Designated | 24 March 1961 |
| Reference no. | 1056557 |
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The Church of St Michael in Blackford, Somerset, England, is a very old church. It was built a long, long time ago, in the 11th or 12th century. This means it's over 800 years old! It is a special building, listed as Grade II*. This listing means it's an important historic place that needs to be protected.
Contents
A Look Back in Time
The Church of St Michael was first built between the years 1000 and 1200. Imagine how much history this building has seen!
How the Church Grew
In the 14th century, which was the 1300s, a tall tower was added to the church. Other parts were also changed around this time. A south porch was built, giving people a sheltered entrance.
Later, in the 18th century (the 1700s), a special area for musicians was added. This was called the musicians' gallery. However, a different gallery, the west gallery, has since been removed.
Part of a Bigger Group
Today, the Church of St Michael is part of a group of churches called the Camelot Group of Parishes. These parishes are all part of the Diocese of Bath and Wells.
What the Church Looks Like
The Church of St Michael is made of stone. It has special Doulting stone details and a roof made of stone tiles.
Main Parts of the Church
The church has a main area called the nave, which has three sections. It also has a chancel, which is the part near the altar, with two sections. There is a south porch at the entrance.
The Tall Tower
The church has a two-story tower on the west side. It has a special top with battlemented parapets, which look like the top of a castle wall. Strong supports called buttresses help hold the tower up.
Inside the tower are three bells. The oldest bell was made in 1620, over 400 years ago!
Inside the Church
When you go inside, you can see many old things. There is a pulpit from the 17th century, where sermons are given. There is also a round font from the 11th century, used for baptisms.
A beautiful screen, designed by Frederick Bligh Bond, was added in 1916. The church's current organ arrived in 1970.
The East Window
The window at the east end of the church is very special. It was first made by the Charles Eamer Kempe studio and put in place in 1882. Over time, the paint on this window started to flake off.
After much discussion, a new window was ordered. It was made by John Hayward, who also created a new window for Sherborne Abbey. This new window shows a picture of 'The Good Shepherd'.
