St James' Church, Staveley facts for kids
Quick facts for kids St James’ Church, Staveley |
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![]() St James’ Church, Staveley
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54°22′48.74″N 2°49′6.86″W / 54.3802056°N 2.8185722°W | |
Location | Staveley, Cumbria |
Country | England |
Denomination | Church of England |
History | |
Dedication | St James |
Consecrated | 24 April 1865 |
Architecture | |
Heritage designation | Grade II listed |
Architect(s) | J. S. Crowther |
Groundbreaking | 24 September 1863 |
Completed | 1865 |
Construction cost | £1,500 (equivalent to £104,800 in 2021) |
Specifications | |
Capacity | 300 persons |
Administration | |
Parish | Staveley |
Deanery | Windermere |
Archdeaconry | Westmoreland & Furness |
Diocese | Carlisle |
St James' Church, Staveley is a beautiful parish church located in Staveley, Cumbria, England. It belongs to the Church of England and is considered a special building, known as a Grade II listed building. This means it's important for its history and architecture.
The church is part of a group of churches in the area. These include St Martin's Church in Bowness-on-Windermere, St Anne's Church in Ings, St Cuthbert's Church in Kentmere, Jesus Church in Troutbeck, and St Mary's Church in Windermere.
Contents
History of St James' Church
The current St James' Church was built in the 1860s. It replaced a much older church from the 14th century. The old church was located on a different site, and only its tower remains today.
Designing the New Church
The new church was designed by an architect named J. S. Crowther from Manchester. He designed it in a style called Early English. This style was popular for churches and cathedrals in England many centuries ago.
The first stone for the new church was laid on 24 September 1863. This special event was done by General Upton, who was acting for Mrs. Howard, the local Lady of the Manor.
Church Opening and Dedication
The church was officially opened and dedicated on 24 April 1865. This ceremony was performed by the Bishop of Carlisle, Rt Revd Samuel Waldegrave. At that time, the only part still needing to be finished was a small spire on top of the church.
Beautiful Stained Glass
The church has some amazing stained glass windows. The window at the east end of the church is especially famous. It features beautiful glass made by a company called Morris and Co. The designs for this window were created by the famous artist Edward Burne-Jones in 1878. This type of art is known as pre-Raphaelite glass.
The Church Organ
St James' Church has a wonderful organ. It was built by Wilkinson and Son, a company from Kendal. The organ was first played on 25 September 1866 by Mr. Smallwood, who was the organist at St George's Church, Kendal. You can find more technical details about this organ on the National Pipe Organ Register website.