Holy Trinity Church, Trowbridge

Nestled in the heart of Trowbridge, Wiltshire, Holy Trinity Church stands as a striking testament to 19th-century ecclesiastical architecture. Commonly referred to as 'The Church on the Roundabout' due to its unique location encircled by a one-way traffic system, this Grade II* listed building is a beacon of historical and spiritual significance.

A Glimpse into the Past

The land on which Holy Trinity Church stands was acquired in 1807 from the fifth Duke of Rutland. By the early 19th century, Trowbridge's existing parish church could no longer accommodate the rapidly growing population, which had swelled to 12,000. The need for a larger place of worship became evident, and thus began the journey to create Holy Trinity Church.

Fundraising efforts spearheaded by Francis Fulford, the then-rector of St. James' parish church, commenced in 1835. The initial construction costs were estimated at £4,000, but the final expenditure amounted to £5,251, a significant sum at the time. A grant from the Church Building Commissioners helped alleviate some of the financial burden.

The foundation stone for the church was laid in 1837, and the construction, overseen by builders Charles and Richard Gane, was completed in just over a year. The church was consecrated by the Bishop of Salisbury on November 1, 1838, in a ceremony attended by 7,000 people, underscoring its importance to the local community.

Architectural Marvel

Designed by A. F. Livesay of Portsmouth, Holy Trinity Church boasts an Early English architectural style, drawing inspiration from elements of Salisbury Cathedral. The church is constructed from Westwood stone, known for its poor quality, leading to subsequent structural challenges. The interior features iron and plaster columns, with the plaster painted to mimic the marble of Salisbury Cathedral. The walls and vaulting are adorned with plaster scribed to resemble high-quality stonework.

One of the church's unique features is its non-traditional orientation, positioned north-east/south-west rather than the customary east/west. The church originally had plain, clear glass windows, which have since been replaced with stunning stained glass installations.

Evolution and Renovation

Over the years, Holy Trinity Church has undergone numerous alterations and renovations. The west gallery, initially home to the organ, was removed in 1888 to mark the church's 50th anniversary. The organ was relocated to the chancel area, and choir stalls were added. The font, originally positioned where the organ now stands, was moved to the west gallery and later to the area near the main door.

In the early 20th century, the church faced significant structural issues due to the poor quality of the Westwood stone. Between 1902 and 1904, the chancel was raised, and screens were erected to form an organ chamber and choir vestry. The church's seating capacity was also reduced from 1,033 to approximately 750.

The churchyard features a Portland stone cross, erected in 1921 as a memorial to the parish's fallen soldiers of World War I. Many gravestones were removed in 1977, further altering the church's landscape.

Stained Glass Windows

The church's windows are a highlight, each telling a unique story. The east window, installed in 1909 in memory of Reverend Robert Ewing, depicts the Crucifixion and the Ascension, with scenes from Dr. Ewing's last sermon. Other notable windows include the memorial window for Reverend Digby Walsh, installed in 1869, and the windows dedicated to Florence Norris in the south transept, created by Morris & Co. in 1937.

Modern-Day Holy Trinity Church

In 2010, Holy Trinity Church ceased to be a parish church and became a chapel of ease within the parish of St. Thomas the Apostle, Trowbridge. Despite this change, the church remains a vibrant center for community activities, including evening services, youth work, concerts, and a mothers and toddlers group.

Today, visitors to Holy Trinity Church can admire its architectural beauty, explore its rich history, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The church continues to serve as a spiritual and cultural hub, reflecting the enduring legacy of its founders and the community it serves.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, Holy Trinity Church offers a captivating glimpse into Trowbridge's past and present. Its storied walls and beautiful windows stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of this charming Wiltshire town.