College of All Saints, Maidstone

Steeped in the rich tapestry of English history, the College of All Saints in Maidstone, Kent, stands as a testament to the architectural and ecclesiastical grandeur of the medieval era. Founded in 1395 by Archbishop William Courtenay, this collegiate church has witnessed centuries of transformation, from its inception through its dissolution and subsequent adaptations. Today, it remains a cherished historical monument, inviting visitors to explore its storied past and architectural marvels.

Historical Beginnings

The College of All Saints was established by William Courtenay, the Archbishop of Canterbury, in 1395. Courtenay, however, passed away the following year, leaving the completion of the college and its church to his successor, Thomas Arundel. The college was endowed with lands and income from the Hospital of St Peter and St Paul in Maidstone and several parishes, including Linton, Farleigh, Sutton, and Crundale. Courtenay's vision was to create a place of learning and religious devotion, and to fund this ambitious project, he obtained a papal bull allowing him to levy a tax on ecclesiastical revenues within his diocese.

Throughout its existence, the college was staffed by a Master and six chaplains. It played a significant role in the spiritual and educational life of the region until its closure in 1546, following the Chantries Act, which aimed to dissolve institutions that performed masses for the souls of the dead. At the time of its dissolution, the college's annual income was estimated at £208 6s 2d, a substantial sum in those days.

Post-Dissolution Era

After the closure of the college, its church was separated and became the parish church for the entire town of Maidstone. The college buildings and lands were sold, with sixteen members of the college receiving pensions totaling £100 17s. In 1549, the lands were sold to George Brooke, 9th Baron Cobham, for £1081 18s 1d. However, much of the property reverted to the Crown in 1603 when Henry Brooke, 11th Baron Cobham, was convicted of treason. The college was then granted to Henry's widow for her lifetime and promised to Robert Cecil, 1st Earl of Salisbury, for the future.

The property remained with the Cecil family until 1697 when it was sold to Sir Robert Marsham of Mote House. The Marsham family, later known as the Earls of Romney, owned the estate for many years, using the buildings for agricultural purposes until the expansion of Maidstone necessitated their demolition in the 19th century. Part of the site was developed with the Cutbush Almshouses, which also hold historical significance and are protected as heritage buildings.

Architectural Features

Constructed from local Kentish ragstone in the Perpendicular Gothic style, the College of All Saints boasts a range of architectural features that reflect its medieval origins. The main building, originally the Master’s house, is a two-story structure with an attic, featuring a 16th-century staircase, a hammerbeam roof, and a 14th-century timber-framed hall. Despite some 18th-century modifications and later additions, the building retains much of its original character.

The gatehouse, a prominent feature of the college, is a three-story rectangular tower with a two-story vaulted gatehouse. The passageway, 2.7 meters wide, includes a pedestrian entrance and housed the bakery and porter's lodge. The tower's roof, a hipped design, once supported a covered parapet walk, and a small turret at the southwest corner adds to its medieval charm.

Adjacent to the gatehouse is the two-story college building, which originally contained the refectory, kitchen, scullery, dormitory, and infirmary. The River Tower, or Muniment Tower, a small three-story structure in the northwest corner, was used for storing important documents. Although some agricultural buildings and extensions were removed in the 19th century, the remaining structures provide a glimpse into the college's past.

Preservation and Legacy

Today, the College of All Saints is a scheduled monument, with several buildings listed for their historical and architectural significance. The gatehouse and refectory are Grade I listed, the Master's House is Grade II*, and the Master's Tower and ruined gate are Grade II. The site is protected to preserve its remaining structures and prevent further destruction.

In 1949, Sir Garrard Tyrwhitt-Drake, the Mayor of Maidstone, gifted the college buildings to the Maidstone Borough Council. A commemorative plaque in the gatehouse passageway marks this generous donation, ensuring that the college remains a cherished part of Maidstone's heritage.

Visiting the College of All Saints offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the rich history and architectural splendor of this medieval institution. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the College of All Saints promises a captivating journey through the centuries.