United Reformed Church, Stoke-sub-Hamdon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids United Reformed Church |
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| Religion | |
| Affiliation | United Reformed Church |
| Ecclesiastical or organizational status | Closed |
| Location | |
| Location | Stoke-sub-Hamdon, Somerset, England |
| Architecture | |
| Architect(s) | Robert C. Bennett |
| Architectural type | Church |
| Completed | 1866 |
The United Reformed Church in Stoke-sub-Hamdon, Somerset, England, was once a busy church. It was built a long time ago, between 1865 and 1866. This building served as a place of worship for the United Reformed Church until it closed its doors in 2017. Today, it is recognized as a special old building, known as a Grade II* listed building. This means it's very important and protected because of its history and design.
Contents
The Church's Story: Building a Place of Worship
For many years, people in Stoke-sub-Hamdon who were "non-conformists" (meaning they didn't follow the main Church of England) didn't have their own church building. They often had to travel to nearby towns like South Petherton or Martock to attend services.
Starting the Project: A Community Effort
In 1865, a local glove maker named Mr. Richard Southcombe decided to change this. He started a committee and began collecting money to build a new church. A very important person who helped was Samuel Morley. He was a Member of Parliament for Nottingham and a big employer in the area.
The church needed land to be built on. A piece of land was rented from the Duchy of Cornwall for 99 years. The rent was a small amount: just 15 shillings each year.
Building the Church: From Plans to Opening Day
Once £1,000 had been collected, Mr. Southcombe hired an architect named Mr. Robert C. Bennett from Weymouth. Mr. Bennett drew up the plans for the new church. Then, Mr. Richard Reynolds was chosen as the builder.
The foundation stone, which is a special stone laid at the start of construction, was placed by Samuel Morley on October 18, 1865. This was an important step in the building process.
The church was finally ready for its first services on September 6, 1866. Many important religious leaders, like Rev. S. Hebditch from Bristol, took part in the opening day. A big dinner was also held for 300 people in the schoolroom next door.
Paying for the Church: Generous Donations
The church cost £1,975 to build. When it opened, £880 of this amount was still owed. However, most of this money was raised on the opening day itself! Mr. Morley increased his donation from £300 to £500. Mr. Southcombe also increased his gift from £300 to £600. Other people attending the opening donated another £148.
Later Years: Growth and Changes
A house for the minister and a schoolroom were built next to the church in 1869. Later, in 1875-76, another schoolroom was added for younger children because more space was needed.
The church building itself was renovated in 1879, costing £400. During this renovation, all the seats and wooden parts were cleaned and varnished. The walls were repainted, and the old pulpit (where the minister stood) was replaced with a rostrum. The church continued to be a place of worship for many years. Its final service was held on January 7, 2017.
Church Design: A Look at Its Architecture
The United Reformed Church is built from a special local stone called Hamstone. This stone came from nearby Ham Hill. The roof is made of Welsh slate.
Architectural Style and Features
The church was designed in a style called Decorated Gothic. This style has many decorative features, like fancy windows and carvings. The architect, Robert C. Bennett, also designed a similar church in South Petherton.
Inside, the church had open wooden seats that could hold 350 people. On the south-east corner of the building, there is a tall tower and a spire that reaches 90 feet high. A schoolroom was built underneath the church, making good use of the space.
