St Peter's Church, Leckhampton facts for kids
St Peter's Church in Leckhampton is a Church of England parish church. It is located in Leckhampton, a part of Cheltenham, in Gloucestershire, England. This church is part of the Diocese of Gloucester. It also works with other churches in South Cheltenham. These include St Philip and St James Church, St Christopher, Warden Hill, and St Stephen's and Emmanuel.
Contents
A Look Back at St Peter's History
How the Church Was Built
People believe that the main part of the church you see today was built in the 1300s. Sir John Giffard, who was like the main landowner of Leckhampton, probably built it. He and his wife are remembered with special statues inside the church.
There was likely an even older church on this spot before. We know this because in 1162, one of its priests had to pay a fine. This fine was for not paying money he owed to Cirencester Abbey. This happened during the time of Archbishop Thomas Becket.
Growing and Changing
In the 1860s, the church became bigger. A new section was added on the north side. The main part of the church was also made longer. This work was guided by an architect named John Middleton.
As more people moved into the area, the local population grew. Because of this, a new church was built nearby. This new church, St Philip and St James, took over part of the old parish area.
Special Features and Memorials
St Peter's Church has a set of eight bells that can be rung. It also has a large organ. This organ was built in 1936 and was updated in 2000.
The churchyard is a special place for remembering people. There is a memorial for Dr. Edward Wilson. He was an explorer who died on Captain Scott's last trip to Antarctica.
The churchyard also contains war graves. These are the graves of eleven service members. Eight of them died in World War I, and three died in World War II.
Another famous person buried here is Fanny Duberly. She lived from 1829 to 1902. Fanny was known for traveling with her husband, Major Henry Duberly. She went with him during the Crimean War and the Indian Mutiny.
See also
- Leckhampton Court
