| Church of the Holy Cross | |
| Country: | England |
| Location: | Ilam |
| Denomination: | Church of England |
| Heritage Designation: | Grade I listed building |
| Designated Date: | 1967 |
| Parish: | Ilam [1] |
| Diocese: | Lichfield [2] |
The Church of the Holy Cross, Ilam, is an Anglican church located within Ilam Park. It is a grade I listed building, and has been since 1967.[3] [4]
Although it is almost certain that there was both a settlement and church in Ilam in the 11th century, neither were recorded in the Domesday Book.[5]
The church likely dates from the 11th century. During the 13th century, it was partially rebuilt, and the building was extended both in 1618 and, later, in 1831. In the years 1855 and 1856, Sir George Gilbert Scott restored the church.[6]
A shrine to Beorhthelm of Stafford (also called St Betram, St Bertram or St Bertelin)[7] was established, after his death in the 8th century, at his grave. An altar tomb, which dates from either the 13th or 14th century, now marks the site of the shrine.[8] The tomb has special openings in its sides that are known as foramina, which allowed pilgrims to touch or kiss a relic.[9] People often put injured limbs through the openings in the hope that they would be healed.[10] The shrine became a popular pilgrimage site in the middle ages, and some pilgrims still visit it today.[11] The chapel in which the shrine is now located was built in 1618.[12]
Within the churchyard, there are two stone cross shafts that date from the Saxon period.[13]
The historic church font depicts episodes from the life of St Bertram. Although the style of the font is Romanesque, it is possible that it dates from the Saxon period.
The large octagonal north chapel houses a carved memorial to David Pike Watts, a rich brewer who bought Ilam Hall in 1809.[14] The memorial was carved by Sir Francis Chantrey; it was completed in 1831.[15]
Also known as St Bertram's Pool, the holy well is located near to the church. It is thought that the water from this well has probably supplied Ilam with clean water since Saxon times. The stone structure that currently surrounds the well is post-medieval.[16]