All Saints' Church

All Saints' Church in Hertford, Hertfordshire, stands as a beacon of history and architectural beauty, inviting visitors to explore its rich heritage and striking design. This Grade II* listed building, the largest church in Hertfordshire, apart from St Albans Cathedral, can seat up to 1,000 people, making it a significant landmark in the town and county.

The History of All Saints' Church

The origins of All Saints' Church date back to before the 10th century, with a church already present on the site at the time of the Domesday Survey. The original structure was replaced in the 15th century by a church with a cruciform plan and a west tower. The parish of All Saints merged with that of St John in the 17th century, marking a significant chapter in its history.

Tragedy struck on 22 December 1891 when the church was destroyed by fire. A competition was held to design a new church, which was won by the Lancaster firm of architects, Paley, Austin and Paley. The foundation stone of the new church was laid on 25 March 1893, and it was consecrated by the Bishop of St Albans on 20 February 1895. The rebuilding effort was a community endeavor, with funds raised through public subscription to complement the insurance payout for the old church.

The church was completed in 1904-05 with the addition of the west end and the tower, again by the Lancaster practice, now known as Austin and Paley. In 1934, the Memorial Chapel was completed to honor those who died in the First World War. The church continued to evolve, with new glass doors added at the west end in 2003.

Exploring All Saints' Church

As you approach All Saints' Church, the first thing that catches your eye is its imposing exterior. Constructed in red Runcorn sandstone with lead and tiled roofs, the church's Gothic Revival (Perpendicular) architectural style is both grand and inviting. The three-stage west tower, with its half-octagonal stair turret and castellated parapet adorned with gargoyles, is a striking feature. The tower also boasts a five-light window above the west door, two-light windows in the middle stage, and clock faces on all sides.

The church's aisles are divided into bays by buttresses, each bay containing a three-light window. The clerestory, with its two-light flat-headed windows in each bay, adds to the building's grandeur. At the northwest corner, a two-storey hexagonal porch with angle buttresses and two-light windows welcomes visitors. Octagonal turrets with castellated parapets and low domes mark the junction of the nave and chancel on each side of the church.

Inside, the tower is supported by large octagonal piers, and the six-bay arcades are carried on octagonal columns. The oak screen at the entrance to the south chapel, inserted in 1961, adds a touch of warmth and elegance. The chancel, elevated by two steps from the nave, features an alabaster reredos presented to the church in 1914, depicting the Last Supper and four saints. The chancel's south wall houses a small piscina and a twin sedilia, while the half-octagonal sandstone pulpit is attached to the pier between the nave and the chancel.

Stained Glass and Memorials

The church is home to stunning stained glass windows, including the east window by Kempe, dated 1900. The east window of the Memorial Chapel, designed by J. N. C. Bewsey, depicts four martyrs, while the glass on the north side of the church is by Shrigley and Hunt. The memorials within the church include fragments of brasses from the earlier church dating back to the 15th century, and a marble memorial to the 1st Battalion of the Hertfordshire Regiment, designed in 1921 by Reginald Blomfield.

The Organ and Bells

The three-manual organ, dating from 1899 to 1900, was made by Henry Willis & Sons. It has undergone several modifications and restorations over the years, including significant work by Cedric Arnold, Williamson & Hyatt in 1971, and the Village Workshop in 2001. The organ's majestic sound fills the church, adding to the spiritual experience of the visitors.

The church also boasts a ring of ten bells, all cast in 1907 by Mears and Stainbank at the Whitechapel Bell Foundry. The harmonious chimes of these bells resonate through the town, marking significant moments and calling the faithful to worship.

External Features and Notable Interments

The churchyard of All Saints' Church is dotted with memorials, five of which have been designated as Grade II listed buildings. These include a chest tomb in white Portland stone dated 1774, a chest tomb in stuccoed brick from the 18th century, two stone gravestones from the 18th century, a headstone in carved Portland stone dated 1711, and a group of six headstones from the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Among the notable interments in the churchyard is William Tutty, whose final resting place adds to the historical tapestry of the site.

In conclusion, All Saints' Church in Hertford is not just a place of worship; it is a repository of history, art, and community spirit. Its walls and windows tell stories of resilience, faith, and collective effort. A visit to this magnificent church offers a glimpse into the past and a serene space for reflection in the present. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or someone seeking a moment of peace, All Saints' Church welcomes you with open arms and a rich heritage waiting to be discovered.