Sts Thomas Minster facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Newport Minster (Sts Thomas, Newport, Isle of Wight) |
|
|---|---|
Newport Minster (Isle of Wight)
|
|
| Denomination | Church of England |
| Churchmanship | Broad Church |
| History | |
| Dedication | Thomas the Apostle and St Thomas Becket |
| Administration | |
| Parish | Newport |
| Diocese | Portsmouth |
| Province | Canterbury |
Newport Minster, also known as Sts Thomas Minster, is the main Anglican church on the Isle of Wight. It is special because it is dedicated to two different saints named Thomas: Thomas Becket and Thomas the Apostle. Until 2008, it was simply called Sts Thomas Church.
Contents
The Story of Newport Minster
The very first church on this spot was built in the late 1100s. It was named after St Thomas of Canterbury, who was a famous archbishop.
Why the Name Changed
Later, during the time of King Henry VIII, Thomas Becket was no longer seen as a hero by the king. So, the "Canterbury" part of the church's name was dropped. Over time, people started to think the church was named after Thomas the Apostle instead.
Building a New Church
By the 18th century, the old church was falling apart. People raised money to build a brand new church in the same place. This new church was built between 1854 and 1855. It was designed by an architect named Samuel Daukes.
When the new church was finished, it was dedicated to both Thomas the Apostle and St Thomas of Canterbury. This was a way to remember the church's long history. The church tower has a set of 12 bells that can be rung.
Becoming a Minster
In 2008, the church was given the special title of "Minster". This happened at Easter. It was to show how important the church is to the Isle of Wight and its community. This title doesn't change its official status within the Church of England, but it recognizes its special role.
Important People Buried Here
Newport Minster is the resting place for some important historical figures.
- Princess Elizabeth of England: She was the daughter of King Charles I and Queen Henrietta Maria. Queen Victoria gave a special memorial for her in 1856.
- Sir Edward Horsey: He was an important person who died in 1582.
The Church Organ
The church has a large pipe organ located in the west gallery.
The first organ was built in 1870. It was later replaced in 1925. That organ was then rebuilt in 1957. Some parts of the very first organ were kept and used in the newer one.
