The Church interior.
|
The pulpit bears the date 1611 which infers that it is the only pulpit
St marys ever had because they were only made compulsory in 1603 (not
for church purposes but so that the Kings messengers could read
proclamations to the populace). Attached to it is a 17th century hour
glass holder ( or lantern holder, the debate is undecided) inscribed
with the letters A.H.
The font is early English, 13th century of the style known as polypod (many legs) with a square bowl. There are remains of old lid fastenings in the rim and it has been much repaired. It's position close to the South Door suggests that the South Door was used as the main entrance originally, this is probably the case because in the middle ages the north side of the church was considered evil and could not be used.
|
|
|
The tower contains memorials to the Silverlocke and Lathum families. The latter is the historic link to the Worshipful Company of Broderers of the Guildhall, London. which at one time owned much of the land surrounding Stifford. In addition, centuries old wooden staircase made of wedge shaped steps and enormous hand made nails reach up to the bell chamber. The bells were made, one in 1663, one in 1635 and one in 1737. The Tower arch is late 15th century .The west window and lights are late 13th century.
|
