St Mary's Church, Haverfordwest facts for kids
St Mary's Church is an old and important church located right in the middle of Haverfordwest, a town in Pembrokeshire, Wales. You can easily spot it at the top of the town's High Street. This church has been around since the 1100s, making it a very historic place. It is officially recognized as a Grade I listed building, which means it's a special building that needs to be protected.
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A Look Back: The Church's History
How Old Is St Mary's Church?
The main part of St Mary's Church, called the nave, was first built in the late 1100s. Imagine, that's over 800 years ago! It was likely rebuilt around the 1240s. This happened after it was damaged in 1220 by a famous Welsh leader named Llywelyn the Great. During this rebuilding, new parts were added, like a tower, porches, and a north aisle.
Changes Over the Centuries
In the 1400s, more changes were made. An upper level of windows, known as clerestory windows, was added. These windows helped bring more light into the church. The tower originally had a tall, pointed roof called a spire. This spire was made of wood and covered with lead. However, it became unsafe and had to be removed in 1802.
Inside the Church
Step inside St Mary's Church, and you'll see a beautiful wooden ceiling. It has carved beams, rafters, and ribs. At the points where these parts meet, you can see carved decorations called bosses. This amazing ceiling was created around the year 1500. The church also has an old organ, which was built in 1737 by Harris & Byfield. It has two keyboards!
The Churches of Haverfordwest
Haverfordwest used to have three main churches, each serving different groups of people. St Mary's Church was originally for the town's merchants, who were business people. St Martin of Tours was the church for the castle and the wealthy aristocracy. Meanwhile, St Thomas á Becket was for the everyday people.
Over time, these churches began to work more closely together. In the 1940s, St Mary's and St Thomas a Becket started sharing one vicar, who is the church leader. When St Thomas a Becket had to close because of expensive repair bills, its members joined the congregation at St Mary's. Finally, St Martin's Church also joined the parish in 2013.
A Protected Building
St Mary's Church has been recognized as a special building since 1951. It is now listed as a Grade I building. This means it's considered a "major medieval church" with "exceptionally well-preserved detailing." It's a truly important piece of history!
