A relic of St Bartholomew’s Chapel. A small comb. It belonged to Edward the Confessor. They say it cured headaches.
Welcome to St Bartholomew’s Chapel a small early 14th-century chapel. It’s part of a former leper hospital. Founded in the late 12th century by Henry I it housed twelve sick people and a chaplain. King Henry I provided generous funding. He gave 23 shillings 5 pence a year. He also provided clothing and hay.
The hospital’s history is full of twists and turns. In the 1310s wardens faced accusations of mismanagement. Adam de Weston a clerk of Edward II was accused of keeping money from produce sales. He also dismissed the chaplain. Mass was rarely said. The hospital’s lands were neglected. In 1316 Edward II reduced the number of brethren from twelve to eight. Only the infirm were admitted. Each brother received nine pence a week. The master and chaplain received four pounds a year. Later Edward III granted the hospital to Oriel College in 1328. The chapel was damaged during the English Civil War. Cromwell’s soldiers used it as a stable. They even stripped the lead from the roof. The hospital was destroyed.
But St Bartholomew’s Chapel survived. It has a nave and chancel combined. The north doorway with a chamfered arch is original. Alterations to the west doorway and roof happened in the 15th century. Repairs are recorded in 1600 1635 and 1649. The last repair was for damage during the English Civil War. The chapel holds a monthly evensong. This tradition continues a long history of faith and resilience.
St Bartholomew’s Chapel holds more than just history. It held relics. A piece of St Bartholomew’s skin was kept here. Bones of St Andrew and St Philip were also kept in the chapel. A May Day and Ascension Day custom existed. Scholars and the New College choir would process here. They would pray sing hymns and enjoy celebrations around a nearby well. This tradition was revived in 2009 after a 400-year pause. A special ceremony was performed at the chapel. The choir then sang madrigals in Oriel College’s playing field near the old spring. This little chapel is a place of layers history faith and fascinating stories. Its small size belies its immense importance. It is a testament to survival and the enduring spirit of faith.