St John's Church, Mansfield

St. John's Church in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, stands as a testament to 19th-century ecclesiastical architecture and the enduring spirit of the local community. This Grade II listed building, designed by the renowned architect Henry Isaac Stevens, is not just a place of worship but a historical landmark that beckons visitors with its rich history and striking architectural features.

The Historical Tapestry of St. John's Church

Constructed between 1855 and 1856, St. John's Church was brought to life through the vision of Henry Isaac Stevens and the generosity of its benefactors. The church was consecrated on 29 July 1856 by the Bishop of Lincoln, Rt. Revd John Jackson. The construction was made possible by a bequest of £6,000 from Gally Knight, supplemented by £1,000 raised by the parishioners and an additional £1,000 from the Duke of Portland for the erection of a parsonage-house.

Described in the Derby Mercury as an early decorated style, the church comprises a nave, two aisles, a chancel, a tower with a spire, and a small porch on the south side. The exterior is built from the locally famous stone, while the interior is adorned with Ancaster stone, known for its white and closely grained appearance. The high-pitched roofs and gothic patterns carved into the cornices add to the church's architectural charm.

An Architectural Marvel

St. John's Church is a feast for the eyes, both inside and out. The tower, standing at approximately 80 feet, is square with a belfry lighted by eight windows, and capped with an octagon staircase and turret. The spire rises another 100 feet, adorned with diaper work and spire lights, culminating in a cross and vane. The overall height from the ground to the top of the spire is an impressive 180 feet.

The interior of the church is equally captivating. The nave, stretching 92 feet 6 inches in length and 59 feet 6 inches in width including the aisles, is supported by plain yet substantial octagon pillars. The chancel, measuring 35 feet by 22 feet, is flanked by Derbyshire marble columns that enhance its chaste appearance. The church can accommodate about 1,000 people, with 630 free and unappropriated sittings. The baptismal font, made of Mansfield stone, was a gift from Charles Lindley, Esq., adding a personal touch to the church's furnishings.

Moments of Drama and Resilience

St. John's Church has not been without its moments of drama. In September 1866, the church faced a scandal when the incumbent, Rev. J.T. Brameld, eloped with a young lady named Paulson, allegedly emigrating to Australia. This event caused quite a stir within the community.

More dramatically, on 8 February 1871, a serious gas explosion occurred during a service. Jeremiah Pool, the clerk, was examining the floor at the west end of the church with a wax taper when the explosion took place. Several people were injured, pews were blown to fragments, and a portion of a stone pillar was sent through the roof. Despite the damage, the church stood resilient, a testament to its robust construction and the enduring spirit of its congregation.

The Beacon of Hope

In addition to its historical and architectural significance, St. John's Church is also known for its charitable endeavors. The church hosts The Beacon, a charitable organization established in 2001. Based at the church hall, The Beacon provides a support center for homeless and socially disadvantaged individuals. Mansfield's Executive Mayor, Andy Abrahams, began volunteering at the center in 2017, highlighting the church's ongoing commitment to community service.

A Visit to Remember

Visitors to St. John's Church are greeted by the grandeur of its stone façade and the welcoming atmosphere of its well-maintained churchyard. The church's impressive architectural features, from the high-pitched roofs and gothic cornices to the intricately designed spire, make it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Inside, the visible timbers of the roof, the plain yet elegant arcade, and the chaste marble columns of the chancel create a serene and contemplative environment. The church's history, marked by moments of drama and resilience, adds depth to the visitor experience, making a visit to St. John's Church not just a visual delight but a journey through time.

St. John's Church in Mansfield is more than just a building; it is a symbol of the community's faith, resilience, and generosity. Whether you are drawn by its architectural beauty, its historical significance, or its charitable works, a visit to St. John's Church promises to be a memorable and enriching experience.