A magnificent wooden bell tower. That’s what first strikes you about the Priory Church of St Laurence. This isn’t just any church. It’s a piece of history a testament to centuries of faith and community.
The Priory Church of St Laurence in Blackmore Essex boasts a history stretching back to around 1170. Richard Bishop of London founded this Augustinian priory. A prior and twelve canons lived and worshipped here. Imagine their daily routines their chants echoing through the very stones you see today.
The church’s west end nave doorway and arches whisper tales of this early period. These architectural features remain from that time. They are a living link to the 12th century. The original priory church had a lofty nave with side aisles. These lean-to roofs were at a lower elevation. The west wall was once an outer wall. The Norman doorway served as the main entrance for the Priors. Their daily path through the cloisters was lit by a cresset stone.
Then came the remarkable bell tower. Constructed around 1400 it’s one of England’s finest timber towers. It houses five bells their chimes once calling the faithful to prayer. Originally dated to around 1480 dendrochronology later pinpointed the construction to 1400 or shortly after. The wood’s age was revealed by scientists. They examined samples from the tower’s timbers.
Blackmore Priory met a similar fate to many monastic establishments. Henry VIII dissolved it in 1527. It was granted to Cardinal Wolsey then returned to the Crown. After passing through several hands John Smyth an auditor to Henry VIII acquired the site in 1540. His family held significant influence in Blackmore for generations. Their legacy lives on in the inscribed floor slabs.
The north and south dormer windows and the brick piers and arches of the south arcade all date from the Tudor period. We don’t know if they pre-date the destruction of parts of the church. After 1600 there were no major structural alterations to the church. Extensive restorations occurred in 1877 and 1898-1902. A carved wooden screen was added in 1905. It was moved to the north side of the chancel in 1988. Modern additions include kitchen and toilet facilities. There is also a children’s corner.
This isn’t just an ancient building. It’s a living church. It continues to serve its community. Weddings baptisms and funerals still take place here. It’s a place of worship and much more. The Friends of St Laurence Church a charity actively supports its preservation. They raise money for repairs and renovations. They also organize events such as concerts. They aim to keep this historic site alive for future generations. Take a moment to appreciate this beautiful building. A silent testament to faith perseverance and community. Its history is etched not only in stone but also in the lives of those who have worshipped within its walls.