St Asaph Parish Church: A Historic Gem in North Wales

St Asaph Parish Church, also known as the Church of St Kentigern and St Asa (Asaph) is a captivating place of worship located in the picturesque town of St Asaph, North Wales. With its rich history and stunning architecture, this church is a must-visit for anyone exploring the region.

A Brief History

The history of St Asaph Parish Church dates back to the 6th century when St Kentigern is believed to have established a church on the site, the dedication to St Asaph was added in the 12th Century. Over the centuries, the church has undergone various renovations and additions, resulting in its unique blend of architectural styles.

Community Hub

St Asaph Parish Church is not only a place of religious worship but also a vibrant community hub. The church hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year, including concerts, exhibitions, and social gatherings. It's a place where people can come together to connect, learn, and celebrate.

Whether you're a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or simply looking for a beautiful place to visit, St Asaph Parish Church is well worth a visit. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and welcoming atmosphere make it a truly special place.

I visited on a July morning, venturing to the charming city of St Asaph, North Wales to explore amongst many things, the Parish Church of St Asaph. Though the interior was closed, the church's exterior was a sight to behold, nestled on a small plot of land to the east of the River Elwy, commanding attention from the High Street. The photo's below, taken with a Nikon d3300, offer a glimpse of its grandeur. Clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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Resilience and Renewal: The Story of St. Michael's Church, Mytholmroyd

Nestled by the banks of the River Calder, St. Michael's Church in Mytholmroyd stands as a testament to both architectural heritage and community resilience. These images, captured in October 2013, show a church that is both a historical landmark and an integral part of the local landscape.

A Product of a Pious Plan

St. Michael's Church, officially known as Mytholmroyd Parish Church, was consecrated on September 8, 1848. Its very existence is tied to a significant piece of British history: the 1820 Church Building Act. This scheme, informally dubbed the "Million Pound Church Act," was a concerted effort by the government and public to construct new churches in areas of population growth, a response to a period of stagnation in church building since the early 18th century.

Funds for the project came from a combination of government contributions and public subscriptions, with a notable portion derived from the war indemnity collected after the Napoleonic Wars. This unique funding source led to these new churches being known by various names, including "Commissioners Churches" and "Waterloo Churches." St. Michael's, with its Gothic Revival style and sturdy stone construction, is a perfect example of this era of ecclesiastical architecture.

A History of Adaptation

Like many historic churches, St. Michael's has undergone changes to meet the needs of its community. The church was extended in 1888, and a two-story Sunday School was added soon after. This school building was later reduced to a single story and converted into the church hall in the 1970s, a practical adaptation that ensured the building remained a functional space for the congregation.

The photographs show the church and its sprawling graveyard, with gravestones of varying ages and styles, each a record of a life lived in Mytholmroyd. The path meanders through the markers, leading the eye to the imposing church tower, complete with its clock face, and the surrounding, verdant landscape of the Calder Valley.

Facing the Flood

A more recent and dramatic chapter in the church's history is its encounter with the devastating Boxing Day floods of 2015. The River Calder, usually a tranquil presence beside the church, rose to unprecedented levels, submerging the building under more than four feet of water. This was the most significant flooding St. Michael's had faced since the 1940s and led to a prolonged closure of nearly two years.

The community rallied around the church, however, demonstrating an incredible spirit of resilience. The extensive damage was repaired, and the church was rededicated and reopened, stronger than ever. This experience has led to a greater focus on flood prevention, with new work taking place along the riverbanks to protect the church and the wider community from future deluges.

The images from 2013, taken before this event, capture the church in a moment of peace, a beautiful reminder of the calm before the storm. They show the River Calder flowing serenely by, the church standing proudly on its bank, and the community it serves laid out before it. St. Michael's Church is more than a building; it is a symbol of faith, a repository of history, and a testament to the enduring spirit of Mytholmroyd.

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The River Calder flowing past St Michael's, a little over 2 years later the river burst its banks and rose to approx 4ft above the floor of the church. The buildings to the left were so severely damaged they were demolished shortly after and now it is an open space between Burnley Road and the River.

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St. James the Great: A Timeless Sentinel in Hebden Bridge

Nestled amidst the picturesque, rolling hills of the Calder Valley, the Church of St. James the Great stands as a silent witness to nearly two centuries of history. Affectionately known to locals as Hebden Bridge Parish Church or Mytholm Church, this Grade II listed Anglican place of worship is about to celebrate a remarkable milestone: its 190th anniversary this October.

These images, captured on a crisp November day in 2013, offer a glimpse into the enduring charm of this historic building. The late autumn light, a mix of brilliant sunshine and soft cloud cover, beautifully illuminates the church’s weathered stone facade and the vibrant foliage of the surrounding trees.

A Product of a Pious Era

The story of St. James the Great is inextricably linked to a significant moment in British history—the Million Pound Act. This government initiative, designed to provide places of worship in rapidly growing industrial areas, led to the construction of numerous churches across the country. St. James the Great was a beneficiary of this scheme, built at a cost of £2,700 and consecrated on October 5, 1833. It’s a testament to the foresight of its creators and the burgeoning faith of the community it was built to serve.

Initially a chapelry within the Parish of Heptonstall, St. James the Great gained its own identity when the Parish of Hebden Bridge was established in 1844. This marked a new chapter for the church, solidifying its role as the spiritual heart of the community.

Architectural Evolution

Like many historic buildings, St. James the Great has evolved over time. While the original structure was a solid example of early 19th-century church architecture, it was significantly enlarged in 1876 with the addition of a chancel. The pictures show this blend of architectural styles, a subtle harmony between the original design and later modifications. The last major alterations were made to the tower in the early 1980s, ensuring the church's structural integrity for future generations.

The stunning stained glass windows, visible in some of the images, are all from the 1870s. Their rich colours and intricate designs tell their own stories, filtering light into the hallowed interior and adding a layer of visual splendour.

A Place of Remembrance

The churchyard itself is a poignant and peaceful space. It is home to a stone cross war memorial, a solemn tribute to the local men who made the ultimate sacrifice during the First World War. The memorial stands as a constant reminder of the community's history and resilience. An additional memorial is located inside the church, ensuring that their names and memory are forever honoured.

As you wander through the rows of gravestones, some worn with age and others still bearing clear inscriptions, you can feel the weight of history all around you. Each stone marks a life lived, a story told, and a connection to this place. The churchyard, with its moss-covered headstones and towering trees, is a place of quiet reflection and deep reverence.

An Enduring Presence

These photographs, taken a decade ago with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet, capture not just a building, but the soul of a place. They show a church that is both imposing and welcoming, a landmark that has been an integral part of Hebden Bridge's landscape for almost 190 years.

As St. James the Great prepares to celebrate its anniversary, we are reminded of its enduring significance. It is more than just a place of worship; it is a symbol of community, a repository of memory, and a beautiful piece of architectural heritage. Its stones hold the stories of generations, and as it enters its 190th year, it continues to be a steadfast beacon for the people of Hebden Bridge.

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Built using Yorkshire Stone and rising 14ft high, this memorial is dedicated to the men killed from the local area in World War 1.

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History in the Hills: A Visit to Cragg Vale's St. John in the Wilderness

On a crisp winter's day, January 10th, 2015, I found myself in the heart of Cragg Vale, standing before a church with a story as rich and layered as the surrounding landscape. The Church of St. John in the Wilderness, also known as Cragg Church, is more than just a place of worship; it's a living piece of local history, its stone walls and ancient graveyard holding secrets and stories from centuries past.

The church's history on this site began with a foundation stone laid in March 1813, and an earlier church opening in 1817. However, the impressive stone structure we see today was opened in 1839. Funded by the "Million Pound Act" and costing £2130, this new building was a substantial upgrade, expanding the capacity from 250 to a massive 800 worshippers. The increase was needed, as the vicar held significant power, even having the authority to pull people from the nearby pubs to attend services!

The photos, taken with a Polaroid is2132 bridge camera, beautifully capture the church's solemn presence against the winter sky and bare trees. The graveyard is particularly striking, with its rows of weathered headstones and ornate monuments, including those belonging to the prominent local Hinchcliffe family, who became deeply involved with the church after it gained independence from the Parish of Halifax in 1844.

The church's connections extend beyond the local community. It is said that the Brontë family often visited, possibly due to Branwell Brontë's time as a clerk at the nearby Luddenden Foot Railway Station. The church also has a more recent and unsettling link to a controversial figure: Jimmy Savile, who was made an honorary church warden in 1967. This detail adds another complex layer to the church's long and varied history.

Standing in the shadow of this historic building, you can't help but feel the weight of its past—a place of faith, community, and some truly remarkable stories. It's a must-visit for anyone who wants to see beyond the surface and delve into the fascinating history of the Yorkshire countryside.

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An Autumnal Walk: All Saints Church, Salterhebble

The crisp air, the rustle of fallen leaves underfoot, and the warm, low light of an autumn day create the perfect atmosphere for a journey back in time. On October 24, 2014, I found myself drawn to the timeless beauty of All Saints Church in Salterhebble, Halifax. Armed with my Polaroid is2132 bridge camera, I set out to capture the essence of this historic place, and the resulting images tell a story of faith, community, and the passage of time.

As you approach the church, the first thing that strikes you is the sheer presence of the building. The tall, elegant spire reaches towards the sky, a beacon of faith built from the local stone. It’s no wonder that a significant part of its construction was a community effort, with Samuel Rhodes generously providing over 400 cartloads of stone from his own quarry. This collaborative spirit is etched into the very fabric of the church.

Designed by the prolific architects James Mallinson and Thomas Healey, whose work can be seen in several other churches in the area, All Saints Church is a testament to the Victorian Gothic Revival style. The pointed arches, intricate stonework, and stained-glass windows are all hallmarks of this architectural movement, designed to evoke a sense of awe and reverence. The foundation stone was laid on August 26, 1857, and the church was consecrated and opened for worship the following year, in 1858. It has been a continuous place of worship ever since, its walls having witnessed generations of baptisms, weddings, and funerals.

Walking through the churchyard is a contemplative experience. It’s an overgrown, verdant space, where ancient headstones, some leaning and weathered with time, are partially reclaimed by nature. The sepia tones of the photographs capture this sense of history and quiet decay, highlighting the ornate crosses and memorials that stand as silent sentinels. A path, strewn with fallen leaves, winds its way between the graves, inviting you to wander and reflect.

One of the most remarkable sights in the churchyard is a large, ornate memorial, a striking contrast to the more traditional headstones. This is a mausoleum, a grand statement of remembrance and a captivating piece of architecture in its own right. With its intricate arches and detailed carvings, it stands as a testament to a significant person or family from the parish's past.

Another discovery was a hidden gateway, a small archway in a stone wall, half-covered in thick foliage. It felt like a portal to another world, a secret entrance to a part of the church grounds less travelled. The vibrant greens of the leaves, still holding onto their colour in the autumn light, create a beautiful frame for the simple stone steps that lead you through.

The images taken that day, some in rich colour and others in a timeless black and white, capture the dual nature of All Saints Church. It is both a functioning place of worship and a living, breathing piece of history. The autumn colours highlight the beauty of the surrounding nature, while the monochrome images emphasize the architectural details and the solemnity of the graveyard.

As I left All Saints Church that day, I felt a deep appreciation for its enduring presence. It’s more than just a building; it’s a repository of stories, a link to the past, and a quiet haven in the bustling world. It stands as a powerful reminder of the community that built it and the history that continues to unfold within its walls.

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Christ Church, Barkisland: A Winter's Tale

There's a special kind of quiet that settles over a churchyard in the winter, especially after a fresh snowfall. The air is crisp, the world is hushed, and the familiar landscape is transformed into something serene and timeless. I recently had the chance to visit Christ Church in Barkisland, a small village near Halifax, West Yorkshire, and found it to be the perfect subject for a winter photography session.

Built in 1852 on land donated by William Baxter of Barkisland Lower Hall, this Anglican church holds a tranquil history. A memorial inside the church honors Baxter, and the building itself is a testament to the work of the architects Mallinson and Healey, who were responsible for constructing about a dozen other churches in the area. Christ Church was granted Grade II listed status in 1984, recognizing its historical and architectural significance.

Wandering the grounds on a cold December day, I was struck by the contrast between the sharp angles of the Gothic Revival architecture and the soft blanket of snow covering the gravestones. The light caught the stone just right, highlighting its texture and creating a sense of warmth against the cold, winter sky. The snow-dusted tombstones stood like silent sentinels, each one telling a small part of the community's story.

The photos, taken on December 29, 2014, with a Polaroid is2132 bridge camera, capture this unique atmosphere. In both colour and black and white, the images show the church's charming details—the arched windows, the slate roof, and the simple yet elegant spire. This beautiful little church in Barkisland is a hidden gem, and seeing it cloaked in snow felt like capturing a piece of its history frozen in time.

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Dunkeswell, Devon: A Church's Challenge

 Oh, the serendipity of an unexpected layover! For an HGV driver like me, a delay often means a good book or a cuppa, but back on September 10th, 2015, in the quiet corner of Dunkeswell, it meant something far more enriching. Stranded until morning after an early arrival at the local airfield, I traded the rumble of my truck for the gentle thud of my boots on country lanes, embarking on an impromptu exploration that unveiled two fascinating pieces of local history: the unassuming Dunkeswell Methodist Church and the remarkably resilient St. Nicholas Church.

Dunkeswell: A Pilot's Paradise and a Church's Challenge

Dunkeswell, for many, is synonymous with its airfield. During World War II, this seemingly tranquil spot buzzed with the vital energy of the US Air Force and later the US Navy. Little did I know, as I set out, just how deeply this wartime legacy had etched itself into the very fabric of the local architecture.

The Quiet Watcher: Dunkeswell Methodist Church

My first encounter was with the Dunkeswell Methodist Church, a humble edifice perched at the top of Abbey Road, gazing down over the village. With its understated charm, it spoke of quiet contemplation and community spirit. Using my trusty Polaroid is2132 bridge camera, I captured its serene presence. Online, historical details are sparse, which only adds to its mystique. It stands as a testament to the enduring faith of the local community, a steadfast beacon through generations, silently observing the ebb and flow of village life below. One can almost imagine the hushed sermons and hymns that have echoed within its walls for decades, providing solace and fellowship to its congregants.

St. Nicholas Church: A Tale of Resilience and Remembrance

A short walk further brought me to the more prominent St. Nicholas Church. This was where the history truly began to unfold, revealing a captivating narrative of destruction, rebirth, and poignant remembrance. Rebuilt between 1865 and 1868 on the foundations of an earlier structure, its very existence speaks to the enduring spirit of the community.

However, it was the story of its tower that truly grabbed my attention. Imagine this: the mighty roar of bombers taking off from the nearby airfield, the ground trembling with their power. It turns out, this very vibration, a symbol of wartime might, proved to be a silent assailant to the church's ancient stone. By 1953, the tower, seriously weakened and on the brink of collapse, had to be urgently demolished. This wasn't the work of bombs, but of the relentless, powerful pulse of progress and protection.

The current tower, rebuilt in 1953, stands as a testament to this remarkable story. But St. Nicholas isn't just a survivor; it's a keeper of memories. Inside, you'll find a moving tribute to the US forces who called Dunkeswell home during the war. A plaque and a book of remembrance stand as a permanent marker of their presence and sacrifice, a tangible link between a Devon village and the global conflict that shaped the 20th century. Even today, the church continues to hold regular services, its walls echoing with both contemporary prayers and the whispers of history.

A Journey Beyond the Load

My unexpected detour in Dunkeswell was a powerful reminder that sometimes, the most enriching experiences are found when you step away from the planned route. What started as a logistical delay transformed into a journey through local history, a chance to connect with the quiet resilience of a community and the surprising impact of global events on a seemingly small corner of England. These two churches, each with its own story, offered a glimpse into the heart of Dunkeswell, proving that even a quick walk can uncover a wealth of hidden narratives. And all thanks to a postponed load!

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