St Mary's Church, Brixham facts for kids

Quick facts for kids St Mary's Church
Church of St Mary the Virgin
The Church Tower
St Mary's Church Location in Devon
50°23′10″N 3°31′08″W / 50.386037°N 3.518772°W / 50.386037; -3.518772
OS grid reference	SX 92120 55119
Location	Higher Brixham, Devon
Country	England
Denomination	Church of England
History
Status	Active
Architecture
Heritage designation	Grade II*
Designated	18-Oct-1949
Administration
Diocese	Exeter

The Church of St Mary the Virgin is a special old church in Higher Brixham, Devon, England. It is known as a parish church because it serves the local community. This church is so important that it is a listed building of Grade II*. This means it is protected for its history and beauty. It was first given this special status in 1949.

History of St Mary's Church

This church building was built around the 1400s, which is the fifteenth century. It replaced an even older church that was built in the Norman style.

Changes Over Time

Over the years, the church has been repaired and updated. For example, its roof was fixed in 1867. The whole church was also restored in 1905.

The tall pillars inside St Mary's Church look a lot like those in St Mary's Church, Totnes. That church was being built in 1432. This makes people think the same architect might have designed both churches!

Important People and Records

Inside the church, you can find special memorials. These include monuments to the Upton family, who lived at Lupton House. There is also a monument for Francis Buller, who was an important judge.

The old records and documents from the church are kept safe. They are stored by the South West Heritage Trust.

Helping to Fund the Church

The Friends of St Mary's, Brixham, is a group that helps the church. It is a registered charity (number 1041867).

Their main goal is to help "maintain, repair, restore, preserve, improve, beautify and reconstruct" the church building. They do this for the benefit of everyone who visits.