As in previous years, until October, St Michael and St Wulfad’s Church will be open for visitors on the same mornings that the Farmers’ Market is taking place in Stone (with the exception of May, as there will be a wedding taking place).
It is perhaps not widely known that the church not only stands on the site of a 7th century religious foundation, but also contains some items of great historic and cultural importance. By at least 1138 there was a priory on the site and from this there is the original 13th century seal matrix. This was thought to have been lost after the priory was dissolved on the orders of Henry VIII, but was found, amazingly, in a field in Surrey in 2013 by a metal detectorist. The land owner, Mr Dominic Combe, very generously donated his share of the find and the matrix was returned to Stone after a public appeal raised the remainder of the money.
Of considerable note, there are also the beautiful stained glass windows by the firm of Charles Kempe. He was responsible for some of the most beautiful stained glass in the world and we are very lucky to have twenty one of his windows in Stone, the most in Staffordshire.
In addition, there is a warrant showing the arms of Charles II; he decreed every church in the land should display one of these, but they are now very rare and we have one here in Stone.
More up to date (in terms of the long history of the town), there are other things of great interest, such as a 17th century lectern and a number of items relating to John Jervis. He was commander of the British fleet when it was victorious at the battle of Cape St Vincent, no less, and he came from Stone! There is also a tiled floor by the Minton factory and a memorial tablet to John Joule, of the famous brewery, the loss of which is still sadly mourned by many.
In October all these wonderful items and the others that are in the church, will be added to when, to also coincide with the Farmers’ Market, there will be the annual Historical Day. A number of additional displays will be provided by very knowledgeable and interesting local experts, some relating to the proud military history and traditions of Staffordshire. In addition, there may be a chance to go up inside the church tower to see the bells and the wonderful view.
Don’t miss the opportunity to see the wonderful things in St Michael and St Wulfad’s Church that show just what history and art is available right here in Stone. Refreshments will be available, so come and visit after a hard morning’s shopping in the market, or to gather strength before you hit the stalls. You will be guaranteed a warm welcome.
The farmers’ market is held on the first Saturday of each month.
With thanks to Dr. Barry Smith
