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The Tower Room and extensions of 1989
The Baptismal Font is a copy of the ancient example in St.Margaret's in Durham and is part of the original furnishings. The cover was given by Dr John H Whitham in 1912 in memory of his father and mother. Our records show that it was to be made of 'first quality Austrian wainscot oak of the closest grain and of good grey colour ammonia fumed to the architects instructions.'
Baptism usually take place in the morning family communion service.
The decorated Paschal candle in front of the font is replaced each year on Easter eve, the Saturday before Easter Day. On this Saturday, the church family meets to renew its baptismal vows. This candle is lit throughout the year every time someone is baptised.
The largest bell, the Tenor, weighs 616 kg. The bells are enthusiastically rung every Sunday morning and for practice each Wednesday evening. They are also rung on special occasions such as weddings.
The Clock has Cambridge chimes and was donated in memory of those who laid down their lives in the Great World War of 1914-18. A sum of money was set aside for regular maintenance by J.K.Barwick in memory of his wife Sarah Anne Barwick who died in 1912.
On the north side of the Name are four massive pillars; each turned from a single piece of stone and headed by simple square capitals. The roof of open timber collars and stilts rests on hammer beams. Most of the windows in nave are of clear plate glass for maximum light and provide attractive views of the beautiful surrounding countryside.
At the East End of north aisle beyond the side altar is a chamber containing the pipe work of the organ. The organ was rebuilt in 1987. The original pipework was installed in 1920 by Filton & Hayley of Bramley at Denholme Clough Methodist Church (3 miles away) in memory of those who died in the World War I. Tonal changes were carried out by Michael Fletcher of Shelf. The action is now electrified.
The oak altar table in the Sanctuary was presented to the church by Miss Ambler in the memory of her mother in 1938. It bears an interesting carving on the front of Jesus Breaking Bread after his resurrection, with the two disciples who walked with him on the road to Emmaus. The fine cast windows were made by the firm of William Morris.
The altar in the Lady chapel was the original altar of 1849 and was donated by the vicar of Haworth, Revd Patrick Bronte, father of the Bronte sisters.
In 1989, plans were drawn up to make the best use of the Tower area and provide additional facilities.
The new accommodation was opened at Easter 1992. We now have upper and lower rooms in the tower which are separated from the church by a large oak screen which has been glazed. The lower part of the screen folds back to provide additional seating capacity for the Church. A new extension on the north side of the Tower has been built to match the existing architecture of the church. The extension houses a staircase, new toilets, a kitchen and boiler room. On Sundays, the Tower Rooms provide space for our children's groups to meet and we serve refreshments after the service in the ground floor room.
If you would like a more comprehensive guide book please contact Oxenhope@fish.co.uk
price £1.00 plus P& P
