St Mary the Virgin Church, Uttoxeter facts for kids
Quick facts for kids St Mary's |
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| The Parish Church of Saint Mary the Virgin | |
St Mary's from the south east
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| OS grid reference | SK 093 335 |
| Location | Uttoxeter, Staffordshire |
| Country | England |
| Denomination | Church of England |
| History | |
| Dedication | St Mary the Virgin |
| Architecture | |
| Heritage designation | Grade II* listed |
| Administration | |
| Parish | Uttoxeter |
| Deanery | Uttoxeter |
| Archdeaconry | Stoke On Trent |
| Diocese | Diocese of Lichfield |
| Province | Province of Canterbury |
St Mary the Virgin's Church, often just called St Mary's, is a historic Church of England church in Uttoxeter, England. It's a special building because parts of it are very old, like its tower and spire from the 1300s! The main part of the church, called the nave, was rebuilt in 1828. Later, in 1877, the chancel (the area near the altar) was also rebuilt.
This church is so important that it's listed as a Grade II* listed building. This means it's a very special historic place that needs to be protected. There are actually two Anglican churches named St Mary's in Uttoxeter. To avoid confusion, the other one is often called "The Heath Mission Church."
Contents
History of St Mary's Church
The original church building was first built way back in the 14th century (the 1300s). Over time, as the town grew, the church became too small for everyone.
In 1828, the main part of the church, known as the nave, was rebuilt. This work was designed by an architect named James Trubshaw. The goal was to make the church bigger so more people could attend services.
Changes to the Chancel
Later, in 1877, the chancel was rebuilt and made longer. This part of the church was designed by architect Frederick Josias Robinson from Derby. The chancel was extended by about 4.3 meters (14 feet).
During this rebuilding, a special gallery was built on the south side, above the vestry. This gallery was made to hold the church's organ, which used to be in a different part of the church. The beautiful stained glass window at the east end of the church was carefully moved and put back in the new chancel. The newly rebuilt chancel was ready and the church reopened on April 29, 1877.
Church Administration
St Mary's is the main church in the Uttoxeter area. It is part of a group of churches called the Uttoxeter Area of parishes. This group includes St Mary's and several other churches in nearby towns and villages.
The Church Organ
St Mary's Church has a large pipe organ. This organ was built by a famous company called William Hill & Sons. You can find detailed information about this organ on the National Pipe Organ Register, which keeps records of organs across the country.
The Church Bells
The church tower is home to a set of 8 bells. Six of these bells are very old, dating back to 1729. They were made by a bell founder named Abraham Rudhall. The two newest bells, the smallest (treble) and the largest (tenor), were added in 1874. They were cast by another well-known company, John Warner & Sons.
