Site Last Updated
16 February 2008

Structure related to function: a fresh look at Kent church buildings.

A group of over thirty members and local people gathered at Greenstreet Methodist Church on 30th January, to enjoy a fascinating presentation by one of the leading experts on the architectural history of Kent’s churches. Using some fine photographic illustrations, John Vigar took us through the architectural evolution of churches in Kent, from the early simple two-cell structures, to the elaborate aisled, glazed, and turreted parish churches of a later age.  John emphasised the functional and social reasons behind the building styles. This approach  gave an entirely fresh view of the subject. The early churches were built by the local population, not masons, using stone that came to hand, such as flint and ragstone. Such construction was only possible in spring and autumn, when there was no work to be done in the fields. Many churches were later expanded by the addition of aisles. The main value of these was not to increase seating capacity (there we no seats in mediaeval times) but to provide columns around which to have processions on holy days.  Many churches are larger than the location seems to demand. This was not due to a large population, but related to the wealth of the residents: parishioners knew it was important to sponsor church building, in order to avoid a long stay in purgatory! Squint–holes between nave and chancel were not for the benefit of lepers (who were invariably locked up elsewhere), but so that the priest holding the service for the hoi-polloi on holy days in the nave, could see, and synchronise with,  his colleague holding the normal service at the high altar.  

As well as dispelling many myths. John explained the structure, function - and demise - of the rood screen, why church windows have ‘eyebrows’ and are bigger inside than out, and the value of limewash as a protective layer.

A clear and stimulating talk concluded with the good, and not so good, side of Victorian church restoration.   

Bob Baxter.

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