St Mary the Virgin Church, Cowes facts for kids
Quick facts for kids St Mary the Virgin Church, Cowes |
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St Mary the Virgin Church, Cowes
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| Denomination | Church of England |
| Churchmanship | Broad Church |
| Website | St Mary the Virgin Church, Cowes |
| History | |
| Dedication | St Mary |
| Architecture | |
| Heritage designation | II* |
| Designated | 17 August 1951 |
| Architect(s) | Tower by John Nash, nave and chancel by Arthur Cates |
| Style | Greek Revival tower, Gothic Revival nave and chancel |
| Completed | 1867 |
| Administration | |
| Parish | Holy Trinity and Saint Mary |
| Deanery | West Wight |
| Archdeaconry | Isle of Wight |
| Diocese | Portsmouth |
| Province | Canterbury |
St Mary the Virgin Church, Cowes is a special church in Cowes, on the Isle of Wight. It is a Church of England parish church, which means it serves the local community. You can find it on Church Road, right next to Northwood House.
Contents
A Look Back: The Church's History
The very first church building on this spot was put up in 1657. This was during a time called the Commonwealth of England, when England did not have a king.
Building Changes Over Time
- In 1811, a part of the church called the chancel was added. The chancel is the area near the altar where the choir sits. Joseph Richards designed this part.
- Later, in 1816, a famous architect named John Nash designed the tall west tower. This tower is quite unique because it was built in a Greek Revival style. This style looks like ancient Greek temples.
- Many years later, in 1867, almost the whole church was rebuilt. Only John Nash's tower was kept. The new parts were designed by Arthur Cates in a Gothic Revival style. This style often has pointed arches and tall windows.
Sharing a Priest: Parish and Benefice
St Mary the Virgin Church is part of a "benefice." This means it shares a priest with another church, Holy Trinity Church, Cowes. It helps both churches work together.
The Church Organ
St Mary's Church has a wonderful organ. It has two "manuals," which are like keyboards that the organist plays. This organ was originally built by Henry Willis & Sons, a very well-known company that makes organs. You can find all the details about this organ on the National Pipe Organ Register.
