St. Lawrence Church Oxhill

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A walk around the Church

Nave
Screen The screen across the western arch is fifteenth century, but was originally from another church - some sources say Wormleighton, others Oakham or Langham in Rutland. In any case it was brought to Oxhill in 1876, and as described earlier was moved from its initial position across the chancel arch to its present position in 1908.
The South Door The South Door behind the organ is now blocked off, but should be seen from the outside as it has some fine Norman carving. (See notes on Exterior).

The Font ->

The font is twelfth century, and the carving round the sides includes the thin naked figures of Adam and Eve. The font was removed from the Church at one time - perhaps being thought a little crude for the sensibilities of the age - and another font substituted. However the original one was eventually rescued from use as a garden ornament, and restored to the Church by E. P. Shirley, Esq. of Ettington, the lord of the manor, in 1879.

 

 

<- Wreath

On the north wall is a showcase in which is hung a reed wreath which was found hanging in the roof when electricity was installed in 1967. This is thought to be the remains of a Maiden's Wreath, dating from the sixteenth century or even earlier. There was a custom - although other evidence of it is scarce in this part of Warwickshire - that when a young girl died, a wreath was woven, inter-twined with flowers, and this was hung in the roof of the Church until it rotted and fell, the pieces being scattered on the grave. it was considered bad luck to remove a wreath, and it may be that this one was left in position when roof panelling was later installed, and the subsequent exclusion of air helped to preserve it.

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This site is maintained by villagers of Oxhill for the benefit of the community and those interested in the history, news and activities that make the village such a pleasant place to live.

Send mail to the Rector of St. Lawrence Church at rector@oxhill.org.uk.

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Last modified: January 30, 2003