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 is a special church in Cowes, a town on the Isle of Wight. It's a Church of England church, which means it's part of the main Christian church in England. You can find it on Church Road, right next to a place called Northwood House.
Contents
The Church's Story
Early Beginnings
The very first church building here was put up a long time ago, in 1657. This was during a time in English history called the Commonwealth of England, when England was not ruled by a king or queen.
Building and Design
Over the years, the church grew and changed. In 1811, a part of the church called the chancel was added. This section, where the altar is usually found, was designed by Joseph Richards.
A few years 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 means it looks a bit like ancient Greek temples, with grand, simple shapes.
Rebuilding the Church
Then, in 1867, most of the church was rebuilt. Everything except for John Nash's tower was redesigned by another architect, Arthur Cates. He chose a different style called Gothic Revival. This style often features pointed arches, tall windows, and detailed stone carvings, similar to medieval cathedrals. So, the church today is a mix of these two interesting styles!
Church Community
Parish and Benefice
St Mary the Virgin Church is part of a larger church community. It works closely with Holy Trinity Church, Cowes. Together, they form what is called a "benefice." This means they share a vicar and work together to serve the local area.
The Church Organ
Inside the church, there is a large musical instrument called an organ. This organ has two "manuals," which are like keyboards that the organist plays with their hands. It was originally built by a well-known company called Henry Willis & Sons, famous for making church organs. You can find all the details about this specific organ on the National Pipe Organ Register.
