St Decuman's Church, Watchet facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St Decuman |
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| General information | |
| Town or city | Watchet |
| Country | England |
| Coordinates | 51°10′47″N 3°19′49″W / 51.1796°N 3.3302°W |
| Completed | 15th century |
The Church of St Decuman is a historic church located in Watchet, Somerset, England. Parts of this church, like the chancel (the area around the altar), were built in the 13th century. Most of the church was built later, in the 15th century. This important building is recognized as a Grade I listed building, which means it's considered a building of exceptional historical or architectural interest.
The church is named after Saint Decuman. People believe that Watchet is the place where Saint Decuman was killed a long time ago.
You can find the church on a hill, giving it a great view over the town. It was updated and repaired between 1886 and 1891 by an architect named James Piers St Aubyn. This was part of a big effort called the Victorian restoration, where many old churches were fixed up. More changes were made inside in 1896. That's when the Caen stone reredos (a decorated screen behind the altar) was put in place.
Contents
Discover the Wyndham Chapel
Inside the Church of St Decuman, you'll find a special area called the Wyndham Chapel. This chapel is at the east end of the north aisle. It is dedicated to the Wyndham family, who used to be the lords of the manor (important landowners) of nearby Orchard Wyndham House.
The chapel holds several memorials to members of the Wyndham family. One important memorial is for Sir John Wyndham (1558–1645). He was a key figure in organizing defenses in the West Country against the threat of the Spanish Armada. Next to his monument, there's one for his parents. The chest tomb of his grandparents, with special monumental brasses, separates the chapel from the main chancel area. You can also see a mural monument with statues of two of Sir John's sons, Henry and George, kneeling. There are other memorials for later members of the Wyndham family too.
Notable Burials at the Church
The Church of St Decuman is the final resting place for several historical figures. Some of these include:
- John Wyndham (1558–1645)
- Florence Wadham
- John Sydenham (died 1521)
- Sir John Wyndham (died 1572)
Exploring the Churchyard
The churchyard surrounds the Church of St Decuman. Here, you can find the remains of a stone cross that dates back to the 15th century. It's a small piece of history still standing today.
See also
- List of Grade I listed buildings in West Somerset
- List of towers in Somerset
- List of ecclesiastical parishes in the Diocese of Bath and Wells
