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 is a very old church in Blackford, England. It was built a long, long time ago, either in the 11th or 12th century. This means it's over 800 years old! It's so important that it's officially recognized as a Grade II* listed building. This special status helps protect its history and unique features.
A Look Back in Time
The Church of St Michael was first built between the years 1001 and 1200. Imagine how much history it has seen!
Later, in the 14th century (the 1300s), a tall tower was added to the church. Other changes happened around that time, like adding a south porch. This porch is like a covered entrance.
In the 18th century, a special gallery for musicians was built inside. Over time, some parts of the church have changed. For example, a west gallery that used to be there has since been removed.
Today, the church is part of a group of churches called the Camelot Group of Parishes. These churches belong to 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.
The main part of the church, called the nave, has three sections. The chancel, which is where the altar is, has two sections. There's also the south porch we mentioned earlier.
The church has a two-level tower on its west side. This tower has a fancy top with battlements, 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 way back in 1620!
Inside the church, you can see some very old things. There's a pulpit from the 17th century, which is where the priest gives sermons. There's also a round font from the 11th century. This is where babies are baptized.
In 1916, a beautiful screen designed by Frederick Bligh Bond was added. The organ, which makes music for services, arrived in 1970.
The church's east window is very special. It was made by the Charles Eamer Kempe studio and put in place in 1882. However, the paint on this window started to flake off. After much discussion, a new window was created by John Hayward. He also made a new window for Sherborne Abbey. The new window at St Michael's shows a picture of 'The Good Shepherd'.
See also
- List of ecclesiastical parishes in the Diocese of Bath and Wells
