Right here stands Addington Community Church. It is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a vessel filled with history, faith, and community spirit.
St Mary’s proudly states it is the oldest building in the borough. Its founding dates back to around 1080. Imagine services held here for almost a thousand years.
From 1386, the Leigh family supported St Mary’s. John atte Leigh was the Sheriff of Surrey. His son served Henry VIII. This family’s legacy is deeply intertwined with the church.
Let’s jump ahead to the 18th century. Barlow Trecothick bought the Addington estate. He was a merchant, slave-owner and politician with ties to America. Trecothick updated the church, leaving his mark.
He re-pewed the church. However, he also committed an act of ecclesiastical vandalism. The Leigh family vault was disturbed to make room for his own. Bones and coffins were piled high.
Trecothick’s dynasty never materialized. He died without children. The estate was sold.
In 1807, the Canterbury See bought Addington. It became a palace for the archbishops. Charles Manners-Sutton was the first archbishop to reside here. He also worshipped at St Mary’s.
Five archbishops are buried here. Charles Manners-Sutton rests under the organ. William Howley rebuilt the main body of the church. He improved the lives of parishioners. John Bird Sumner, Charles Longley and Archibald Campbell Tait followed.
In 1875, the church closed for repairs. A north aisle was added. The tower was raised.
Frederick English, a diamond merchant, bought Addington Palace in 1897. He renovated the building. English was buried in St Mary’s churchyard.
These walls have witnessed centuries of change. Addington Community Church connects us to the past. It offers solace and community today. It stands as a testament to faith. It is a landmark for generations to come.