Church of St Mary | |
Location Town: | Chedzoy |
Location Country: | England |
Completion Date: | 13th century |
Map Type: | Somerset |
Coordinates: | 51.1345°N -2.9429°W |
The Anglican Church of St Mary in Chedzoy, Somerset, England dates from the 13th century and has been designated as a grade I listed building.[1]
There is evidence of a Church in Chedzoy in 1166 when it was given along with the parent church in North Petherton to Buckland Priory.[2] The tower dates from the early 16th century when the porch, clerestory, the arch into the north transept, and the windows in the north aisle were added.[3]
Much of the current building is from the 17th century, although the Norman chancel, chancel arch and doorway remain. It was extensively remodelled by William Butterfield in 1861.[4] A late medieval screen and rood loft were removed around 1841. The font has survived since the 13th century. The pulpit is from the 16th century. Amongst the memorials is a monumental brass believed to commemorate Richard Sydenham who died in 1499.[2]
Local tradition says that the church still bears marks form the forces of the Duke of Monmouth during the Monmouth Rebellion in 1685, who sharpened their swords before battle,[5] however this is unlikely to be the true source of the marks.[6]
The parish is part of the benefice of Westonzoyland with Chedzoy within the Sedgemoor deanery.[3]