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St James's Church, East Cowes facts for kids

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St James's Church, East Cowes
St James's Church, East Cowes, Isle of Wight, UK.jpg
St James's Church, East Cowes
50°45′28″N 01°17′08″W / 50.75778°N 1.28556°W / 50.75778; -1.28556
Denomination Church of England
Churchmanship Broad Church
Website [1]
History
Dedication St James the Great
Administration
Parish East Cowes
Diocese Portsmouth
Province Canterbury
St James's Church, East Cowes, Isle of Wight, UK (2)
View from the south side

St James's Church, East Cowes is a special church on the Isle of Wight. It belongs to the Church of England. This church is the main one for the area of East Cowes.

History of the Church

Building the Church

A famous architect named John Nash designed this church. It was built in 1831. The land for the church was a gift from Thomas Chamberlayne.

On September 6, 1831, a very special guest helped start the building. The twelve-year-old Princess Victoria laid the first stone. This stone is called the foundation stone.

The church was finished by 1833. On July 12, 1833, Princess Victoria came back. She attended the church's special opening service. Her mother, the Duchess of Kent, was also there. The Bishop of Winchester, Charles Richard Sumner, led the service. Building the church cost about £3,000.

Changes Over Time

Between 1864 and 1868, the church became much bigger. An architect named Thomas Hellyer made these changes.

In 1870, more parts were added. These included the chancel and a private chapel. The chancel is the area near the altar where the choir sits.

Modern Activities

In June 2009, the church started a new project. People could meet for breakfast before services. This helps everyone get to know each other better.

Every August, the church also holds a fun event. It is a Jigsaw Puzzle Festival that lasts for one week.

People Buried Here

Famous Architect's Grave

The church is the resting place for its original architect. John Nash (1752–1835) is buried here. He was the person who designed the church.

Church Connections

Working Together

St James's Church is part of a group of churches. It works closely with St. Mildred's Church, Whippingham. This means they share resources and support each other.

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