St Swithun's Church, Thorley facts for kids
Quick facts for kids St Swithun's Church, Thorley |
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| Denomination | Church of England |
| Churchmanship | Broad Church |
| History | |
| Dedication | St Swithun |
| Administration | |
| Parish | Thorley, Isle of Wight |
| Diocese | Portsmouth |
| Province | Canterbury |
St Swithun's Church, Thorley is a local church for the Church of England in Thorley, Isle of Wight. It is a place where people gather for worship and community events.
Contents
History of St Swithun's Church
Building the New Church
The current St Swithun's Church was built in 1871. A person named W. J. Stratton designed it. He was the architect. The church was built with stone. It looks like churches from the late 1200s.
The new church was built closer to the village center. People donated money to help build it. It was officially opened on December 9, 1871.
What's Inside the Church?
The church has a main area called the nave. It also has a chancel, which is where the altar is. There are two side sections called transepts. The church also has a tower.
Inside the tower are two old bells. These bells are from the 1200s. They came from the old church building. The bells have special writing on them. It says 'Wallerandus Trenchard et Johannes Rector Ecclesie.'
In the church's vestry, which is a room for clergy, there is an old altar table. This table is from the 1600s. It was also used in the old church.
The Old Church Building
There was an even older church of St Swithun. Only a small part of it is left today. This part includes the porch and a bell tower. It stands next to Thorley Manor. There is also a small, old graveyard there that is no longer used.
Remembering War Heroes
The churchyard is a special place. It contains the grave of a Royal Air Force airman. He served during World War II. This grave is cared for by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. It helps us remember those who served.
The Church Organ
About the Pipe Organ
St Swithun's Church has a pipe organ. It was built in 1875. The company that built it was Forster and Andrews. A pipe organ is a large musical instrument. It makes sound using air blown through many pipes.
You can find more details about this organ online. The National Pipe Organ Register has a full description of it.
Historic Organ Certificate
This organ is very important because of its history. The British Institute of Organ Studies has recognized its value. They gave it an "Historic Organ Certificate." This means it's a special and well-preserved instrument.
