St. Mary’s Church, Upton Scudamore
Church Guide by Anthony Johnson, 1980
Like many parish churches in Wiltshire, St. Mary The Virgin’s Church has its origins in Norman times, but over the centuries it has been re-built and adapted by succeeding generations.
It is the oldest building in the village and it has been the spiritual centre of the village from the 11th century until now. We hope that this brief guide will draw your attention to its most interesting features.
1 The Porch. The Norman doorwayis 12th century but some of the carving is more modern and fits in with the original work.
2 Lancet Window. This is to the west of the main door and may go back to Norman times.
3 The Tower was re-built in the Georgian era and may be dated about 1750. It contains an iron staircase, a 19th century clock and one bell.
4 The Font is circular and Norman with zig-zag and lozenge bands.
Much of the church was re-built in 1855 whilst Dr. Baron was Rector but . . . .
5 The Pillars between the aisle and the chapel are Norman with pointed arches of the Early English period above them.
6 The Scudamore Aisle can be dated about the 14th century and contains two effigies of knights, late 13th and 14th century. Also by the effigies may be seen some stone carvings rescued from Crucifix Cottage at Norridge Farm. One side shows Christ on the Cross and another represents a saint, who could be a Bishop. It is thought that this stone comes from the remains of a medieval monastery at Norridge. The numerous memorials to the Pearce family (whose descendants are still in the village) should be noted.
7 The Chancel was re-built in Victorian times but the fine memorials to earlier Rectors and their families were replaced. The wording of each memorial makes interesting reading.