St Mary's Church, nestled in the heart of Nottingham's historic Lace Market district, is a beacon of architectural splendor and historical significance. This majestic structure, officially known as the Church of St Mary the Virgin, stands as the oldest parish church in Nottingham and is one of the city's five Grade I listed buildings, a testament to its outstanding architectural and historical importance.
The origins of St Mary's Church can be traced back to the Saxon era, as it is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. The current building, however, mostly dates from the end of the 14th century to the early 16th century, showcasing the Gothic Perpendicular style that was prevalent during that period. The nave, completed before 1475, is particularly notable for its uniformity in this architectural style.
Over the centuries, St Mary's has seen numerous renovations and restorations. The south aisle wall, likely the first part of the building constructed in the early 1380s, and the tower, completed during the reign of Henry VIII, are significant milestones in the church's architectural evolution. The church was owned by Lenton Priory from 1108 to 1538, and the monks took the living of the church as Rector, appointing a Vicar to perform daily offices.
St Mary's has a rich history of educational initiatives. In 1513, Dame Agnes Mellers founded The Free School of the Town of Nottingham within the church, which later became Nottingham High School. The church also pioneered Sunday School education in 1751, teaching reading, writing, arithmetic, and religious knowledge to children unable to attend day school, predating the generally acknowledged first Sunday School by 35 years.
One of the most striking features of St Mary's Church is its chantry door, believed to be the oldest surviving door in Nottingham, dating from the 1370s or 1380s. The door's medieval ironwork locking mechanism is a rare and fascinating example of craftsmanship from that era. The church also boasts a collection of late Victorian stained glass windows by renowned makers such as Kempe, Burlison and Grylls, and Hardman & Co.
The bronze doors, designed in 1904 by Henry Wilson in memory of his father-in-law, Rev. Francis Morse, are another highlight. These doors illustrate the Life of Our Lord in relation to the Holy Mother, to whom the church is dedicated. The intricate panels depict scenes such as The Annunciation, The Nativity, and The Resurrection, each rendered with exquisite detail and symbolism.
St Mary's has been a witness to numerous historical events. George Fox, the founder of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), was imprisoned in Nottingham in 1649 after interrupting the preacher at St Mary's. The church also housed the town fire engine for several years from 1716 and opened a workhouse in 1726, which operated until 1834.
The church underwent a major restoration from 1843 to 1848, overseen by George Gilbert Scott, which included the reconstruction of roofs and the west front. Further restorations in the 19th and 20th centuries, including the addition of the Lady Chapel in 1912 and the Simpson memorial choir vestry in 1940, have preserved and enhanced the church's architectural integrity.
Today, St Mary's Church continues to serve as a place of worship and a community hub. It is the Civic Church to the City of Nottingham and the University Church for the University of Nottingham. The church hosts a wide range of concerts and public performances, making it a vibrant cultural venue in addition to its religious functions.
The church's internal dimensions are impressive, with a length of 215 feet from west to east and a width of 100 feet across the transepts. The tower stands 126 feet above ground level, offering a commanding presence over the surrounding area. The church retains traditional liturgical practices, with services sung by a robed choir and conducted using both the Book of Common Prayer and Common Worship.
Visiting St Mary's Church is a journey through centuries of history, architecture, and community spirit. From its ancient origins and educational contributions to its stunning architectural features and ongoing role in Nottingham's cultural life, St Mary's is a must-see destination for anyone exploring this historic city.
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