Perhaps you have heard it called Lonan Old Church. Saint Adamnan’s Church stands as a testament to time. Originally, it was known in Manx as Keeill ny-Traie. This means the chapel by the shore.
This former parish church of Lonan sits in an isolated spot. Open farmland surrounds it on the Isle of Man’s eastern coast. You will find it nestled between Groudle Glen and Baldrine.
St Adamnan was a significant figure. He served as the Abbot of Iona between 679 and 704. The site’s religious importance stretches back even further. The churchyard holds Celtic crosses. One cross dates back to the 5th century AD. This provides proof of an early keeill on this very ground.
King Reginald of the Isle of Man made a notable grant around 1190. He gave the land of Escadala to St Bees Priory in Cumbria. This grant likely included the church site. This explains its subsequent reconstruction and selection as the parish church despite its remote location.
However, its location did become an issue. In 1733, parishioners requested a new church. They petitioned Bishop Wilson because the old church from the 14th century was inconveniently located. An Act of Tynwald was passed the same year. It called for building a new parish church at Boilley Veen.
Interestingly, the new church took a century to complete. When finished in 1833, it was almost as remote as the old one. The original plan was to demolish the old church. Instead, it was left to fall into disrepair.
The Reverend John Quine rescued St Adamnan’s Church in 1895. He was appointed vicar and was a noted antiquarian. He saved the church from further ruin.
The Friends of St Adamnan’s formed in 1968. Their mission was to maintain the old church. They wanted to ensure it remained a working church and historical site.
Medieval stone crosses grace St Adamnan’s Church. New visitor information highlights their importance. Manx National Heritage and the Diocese of Sodor of Man collaborated on this.
The churchyard holds eight medieval carved crosses. These date from the 7th to the 10th centuries. The Isle of Man boasts a significant collection of these memorials. They range from simple grave markers to intricately decorated memorials.
These crosses tell stories of faith, identity, and aspirations. They reflect a pivotal period in the Island’s history. This includes its conversion to Christianity and the arrival of Norse settlers.
Some crosses even bear inscriptions. These inscriptions offer insights into the beliefs and origins of the people who created them.
Reverend Jo Dudley, Vicar of St Adamnan’s Church shared her thoughts. She said that the area surrounding St Adamnan’s Church is beautiful. She is grateful to be the current steward.
The crosses are accessible to the public in the church grounds. For those unable to visit, they are available online. Each cross has been laser-scanned and can be viewed on iMuseum.
Visiting St Adamnan’s Church offers a unique experience. It connects you to centuries of history and faith. The efforts to preserve this site ensure its legacy continues.