Perhaps you’ve wondered about the story behind this seemingly modest church. Little St Mary’s Church has stood here for centuries witnessing Cambridge’s evolution. Today I will tell you about its captivating past.
Little St Mary’s Church, also known as St Mary the Less, is a Church of England parish church. It stands on Trumpington Street between Pembroke College and Peterhouse. Its history stretches back to the 12th century. Back then it was known as St Peter-without-Trumpington Gate. This name distinguished it from another St Peter’s Church.
Originally, the church was under the control of a single family for three generations. In 1207, it was given to the Hospital of St John the Evangelist. Chaplains from the hospital then served the church.
A significant chapter in Little St Mary’s history involves Hugh de Balsham, Bishop of Ely. In the early 1280s, he housed scholars at the Hospital of St John. However, the sick and the students couldn’t coexist peacefully. In 1284, the students were moved to the site of what is now Peterhouse. This marked the beginning of the first Cambridge college.
By the 1340s, Little St Mary’s Church had fallen into disrepair. Peterhouse fellows decided to rebuild it. In 1352, the new building served as both a college chapel for Peterhouse and a parish church. It was rededicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary at this time. However, in 1632, Peterhouse constructed its own chapel. Little St Mary’s then reverted to being solely a parish church.
Richard Crashaw, a metaphysical poet, served as a priest here from 1638 to 1643. He was also a Fellow of Peterhouse. In 1643, after his departure, the Puritan William Dowsing damaged many of the church’s ornaments and statues. Dowsing’s actions left lasting marks. The damage to the sedilia and the archway to the Lady Chapel remains unrepaired.
The church underwent significant changes in the 18th and 19th centuries. In 1741, it was refitted with wooden panelling, box pews, and a choir gallery. Sir George Gilbert Scott restored the church in 1856-7. He removed the 18th-century panelling. Further restoration occurred in 1876 and 1891. By 1880, the church had largely taken on its present form. The south, or Lady, Chapel was added in 1931. Thomas Henry Lyon, architect of Sidney Sussex College Chapel, designed it.
Look up at the stained glass. The north-east window is by Charles Eamer Kempe. Stained glass by Harry Stammers depicts the Finding of Christ in the Temple. You can also see SS Michael and Gabriel by John Samuel Bucknall.
Little St Mary’s Church has a Grade II* listed building status since 1950. It is a testament to its historical and architectural significance.
The Reverend Godfrey Washington, great uncle of US President George Washington, is buried here. His memorial is on the north wall. It is close to the main door.
Little St Mary’s Church stands as a reminder of Cambridge’s rich history. It is a place of worship and a testament to the passage of time. From its humble beginnings as St Peter-without-Trumpington Gate to its current form, it has witnessed centuries of change. Its walls hold stories of scholars, poets, and religious upheaval. It offers a glimpse into Cambridge’s fascinating past.