Church of St Stephen, Saltash facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St Stephen, Saltash |
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St Stephens-by-Saltash | |
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50°24′13″N 4°13′44″W / 50.4035°N 4.2289°W | |
Location | Saltash, Cornwall, PL12 4AP |
Country | England |
Denomination | Church of England |
History | |
Status | Active |
Architecture | |
Functional status | Parish church |
Years built | 15th century |
Administration | |
Parish | St. Stephen by Saltash |
Deanery | East Wivelshire |
Archdeaconry | Archdeaconry of Bodmin |
Diocese | Diocese of Truro |
The Church of St Stephen, also known as St Stephens-by-Saltash, is a Church of England parish church in Saltash, Cornwall. It is a very old and important building, listed as a Grade I historic site. The church was built in the 15th century.
Contents
A Look Back: The Church's History
This church stands on a very old site. An earlier church from the 13th century was here first. It was officially opened for worship in 1259. The church building you see today was mostly built in the 15th century.
The church has three main sections called aisles. It also has five bays, which are like sections of the building. There is a tall, three-part tower. The roof, made of slate, was added in 1866.
Inside the Church
Inside, you can find a square font. This is a basin used for baptisms. It dates back to the Norman period, which was a long time ago. It looks similar to other fonts found in Cornwall.
Behind the main altar, there is a beautiful screen called a reredos. This screen has seven sections and is designed in a Gothic style.
Protecting History: Grade I Listing
Because of its age and importance, the church was given a special status. On January 17, 1952, it became a grade I listed building. This means it is a very important historic building that needs to be protected.
The Churchyard Cross
In the churchyard, there is an old stone cross. It is called a Gothic lantern cross. This cross was first written about in 1872. For many years, it stood in the vicarage garden. In the 1970s, it was moved back to the churchyard. Experts believe it was originally placed there.
The Church Today
The Church of St Stephen is part of the parish of St. Stephen by Saltash. This parish is part of the Saltash Area Ministry. It belongs to the Archdeaconry of Bodmin and the Diocese of Truro.
St Stephen's is also linked with the Church of St Nicholas and St Faith, Saltash. Together, they form the Benefice of Saltash. The Dean and the Canons of Windsor are important figures who support the parish.
Notable People Buried Here
- Alan Lennox-Boyd, 1st Viscount Boyd of Merton (1904–1983)