Barton Stacey Church has a rich and fascinating history that stretches back over centuries. As a central part of village life, the church building reflects the architectural styles and traditions of its time, while standing as a testament to the enduring faith of the community. The church has been a place of worship, celebration, and reflection for countless generations, with each era leaving its mark on the building’s unique character. From ancient stone walls to beautifully crafted windows, All Saints’ Church tells the story of the village’s spiritual journey, offering both locals and visitors a glimpse into the past while continuing to serve as a house of worship and a centre for the community today.
(find out more about the cover image – via the Barton Stacey History society)

A Brief History of Our Church: Key Dates

The history of our church is rich and varied, marked by significant events and changes that reflect the passage of time and the needs of the community. Below are some key dates that highlight the important milestones in the church’s journey:

1066: Our church is first mentioned in the Domesday Book, valued at 15 shillings, establishing its presence in the local community.

Late 12th Century: The church is rebuilt in the Norman transitional style, showcasing the architectural evolution of the time.

1086: The advowson, or the right to appoint the parish priest, is granted by William the Conqueror to the de Piste family, indicating the church’s growing significance.

1136: The advowson is transferred to the Abbey of Lanthony, originally located in Wales before relocating to Gloucester, highlighting the church’s connections to influential religious institutions.

Mid 13th Century: Major rebuilding occurs in the early English Gothic style, further enhancing the church’s architectural beauty.

c. 1510: A fine turreted and embattled tower is added, a testament to the church’s evolving design and stature within the community.

1541: The advowson is granted by Henry VIII to the Dean and Chapter of Winchester, who remain the current patrons of the church.

1635: The church is noted as being in a “ruinous state,” indicating the need for repairs and restoration.

1792: During a devastating fire that sweeps through the village, the church serves as a refuge for the homeless, exemplifying its role as a community centre.

1848: Significant renovations take place, including reseating the church and strengthening its foundations.

1877: A pine arch roof is added to the chancel, and the open wooden porch is replaced, improving the church’s structure and aesthetics.

1894: Chancel pillars are reset, and wooden floors in the transept are replaced, continuing the trend of maintenance and enhancement.

1902: The present pulpit and lectern are installed, reflecting the church’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for worship.

1918: A carved wooden memorial is erected to honour parishioners who lost their lives in World War One, commemorating their sacrifice.

1971: The church undergoes further updates, replacing the brick floor with tiles and repairing the vestry in the North transept.

1989: A major restoration project focuses on the stone and flint work, preserving the church’s historical integrity.

2000: A significant refurbishment of the church facilities and fittings takes place, modernising the space while respecting its heritage.

2016-17: The external gates are replaced in honour of HM The Queen and the victims of the Barton Stacey fire of 1792, marking a meaningful tribute to history.

These key dates not only highlight the architectural and community significance of our church but also underscore its enduring role as a place of worship and gathering throughout the centuries.

See here for more history from the Barton Stacey History Group

History of All Saints Church, Barton Stacey

LIST OF INCUMBENTS

An incumbent is a person who currently holds a particular office or position within the church, typically a parish priest or vicar. The role of the incumbent has evolved significantly over the centuries, particularly in rural parishes like ours.

Over the years, the responsibilities of incumbents have adapted to meet the changing needs of their communities. In the medieval period, for instance, incumbents were deeply involved in local governance, often acting as mediators in disputes and overseers of agricultural and economic matters. As society progressed through the Reformation and into modern times, the focus of incumbents shifted more towards spiritual leadership, pastoral care, and community outreach.

Today, the role of the incumbent in a rural parish encompasses a wide range of duties, including preaching, teaching, leading worship, and supporting social initiatives. They play a crucial role in fostering a sense of community and belonging among parishioners, guiding them in their faith journey while remaining sensitive to the unique challenges faced by rural populations.

Here is a record of the clergy who have been responsible for the parish, right back to the 13th century:

…. Walter de Saham

1292 William le Palmer

1308 John of Barrington

1329 William Loveryng

1349 Walter Flemmyng

1361 Thomas Lombard

1382 Edward Cooke

1426 John Saye

1430 William Colyns

1434 John Banks

1443 William Leyghton

1448 William Dayster

1452 John Rawlyns

1462 Thomas Beeke

1472 Malachi Burnham

1475 William Danyell

1482 Robert Melton

…. William Bucknell

1507 Henry Osborne

…. William Wye

1532 Thomas Vaughan

1547 Henry Lowe

1570 Henry Mall

1595 William Elmes

1603 Thomas Gough

1613 William Tyndall

1613 Nicholas Donnell

1632 Leonard Alexander

1642 Robert Kercher

1645 Owen Morgan

1661 James Garth

1669 David Standish

1681 Jonathan Falkner

1684 Thomas Gray

1693 Thomas Riley

1713 Walter Garrett

1737 Philip Tennant

1738 William Jourd

1777 John Dennis

1789 Sir Peter Rivers Gay Bt

1790 Thomas Rennell

1791 Robert Hare

1797 Nicholas Westcombe

1814 Thomas Rennell

1840 Henry Middleton

1844 William Vaux

1845 Francis Swanton

1872 Abraham Horwill Stogdon

1892 Ulric Zwinglius Rule

1909 Arthur Charles Franklin

1923 Frederick Rowland Dawson

1924 Gerald Claude Randolph D’Arcy

1958 Cecil Beaumont Verity

1969 John Humphrey Norman Llewelyn

1985 Derek John Cottrill

1993 William Robson

2000 Christopher Finch

2008 Mark David Bailey

2022 David Roche