St Stephen's Church, East Hardwick, Pontefract
St Stephen's Church in East Hardwick is a fascinating blend of history and community spirit. Located in the heart of the village, it serves as both a place of worship and a historical landmark.
Architectural Features
The church is built in the Early English style, with a cruciform layout. Originally, it had a wooden turret housing the bells, but in 1927, this was replaced by a 13.5-meter castellated stone tower, where the bells were rehoused in an oak frame. Inside, the roof is lined with pitch pine, supported by large wooden arches resting on stone corbels. The Millennium Window, commissioned in 2000, features symbols of peace, agriculture, and light.
Historical Background
East Hardwick itself dates back to 1120, appearing in records as "Herdwica." In 1653, Stephen Cawood, a local farmer, endowed a trust to build a chapel and free school, which were completed around 1660. The original chapel was demolished in 1873, and the current church was built, with its foundation stone laid by the Marquess of Ripon, a prominent Freemason. The church maintains its Masonic connections, holding an annual service in September.
Community Role
St Stephen's Church remains a welcoming community hub, sharing worship services with St Michael the Archangel in Carleton. It hosts events throughout the year, including Songs of Praise and other gatherings. The church also prioritizes safeguarding and community welfare, continuing the legacy of the Cawood Trust, which supports the sick.
St Stephen's Church, East Hardwick, Pontefract
St Stephen's Church in East Hardwick is a fascinating blend of history and community spirit. Located in the heart of the village, it serves as both a place of worship and a historical landmark.
Architectural Features
The church is built in the Early English style, with a cruciform layout. Originally, it had a wooden turret housing the bells, but in 1927, this was replaced by a 13.5-meter castellated stone tower, where the bells were rehoused in an oak frame. Inside, the roof is lined with pitch pine, supported by large wooden arches resting on stone corbels. The Millennium Window, commissioned in 2000, features symbols of peace, agriculture, and light.
Historical Background
East Hardwick itself dates back to 1120, appearing in records as "Herdwica." In 1653, Stephen Cawood, a local farmer, endowed a trust to build a chapel and free school, which were completed around 1660. The original chapel was demolished in 1873, and the current church was built, with its foundation stone laid by the Marquess of Ripon, a prominent Freemason. The church maintains its Masonic connections, holding an annual service in September.
Community Role
St Stephen's Church remains a welcoming community hub, sharing worship services with St Michael the Archangel in Carleton. It hosts events throughout the year, including Songs of Praise and other gatherings. The church also prioritizes safeguarding and community welfare, continuing the legacy of the Cawood Trust, which supports the sick.