Summary

In the 19th century the chancel was shortened at the east end, the south porch added and the church generally restored.

Full description

In the 19th century the chancel was shortened at the east end, the south porch added and the church generally restored. The south west angle of the south aisle was rebuilt, probably when the former south porch was destroyed. In the nave, incorporated in 2 modern pews, elaborate panels of c1625, pulpit is c1625. <1> Church shortened in 19th century, straw decoration made c1880, pulpit is Elizabethan. <2> 17th-20th century additions and alterations. 18th century gallery at west end of nave, housing an 18th century chamber organ, which once belonged to Sir George Elvey, organist of the Chapel Royal, Windsor, dedicated in this church in 1933. The pulpit dates from c1625. Late 18th century panelled pews. 17th century oak chest. 17th and 18th century graffiti. 14th century screen includes some fine 19th century straw work. <3> A pew end was discovered beneath the suspended floor of the north side of the church. It was in very poor condition. It had no decoration and was low in height. It was dated to c15th-17thC. Because of the poor condition it was sketched and disposed of. <6> In 1993 partial removal of the panelling against the north wall of the nave, for electrical works revealed the easternmost window aperture had been blocked at the bottom. Originally it had formed a seat or sedile; this had occurred in two phases: 17th-18thC and 18th/19thC. Graffiti was also discovered which was probably of 17thC date and was probably some sort of game. Approx 9in below the suspended floor was also observed the gravel preparation surface or original medieval floor. <7> In the blocked window part of the fill consisted of medieval floor tiles which are common in the church.

<1> RCHME, 1916, An Inventory of the Historical Monuments in Essex - Volume 1, Vol 1, pp11-12 (DESC TEXT). SEX701.

<2> Pevsner, N, 1954, The Buildings of England, Essex, p62 (DESC TEXT). SEX83.

<5> Department of the Environment, 1985, List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest: Braintree, pp10-11 (DESC TEXT). SEX4383.

<6> Andrews, D?, 1985, Bardfield Saling Church, Discovery of a Pew End (DESC TEXT). SEX54107.

<7> Andrews, D?, 1993, Bardfield Saling Church. Observations in NE Corner of nave, 1993 (DESC TEXT). SEX54108.

Monument Types

• CHURCH (C19, Post Medieval - 1540 AD to 1900 AD)

Sources and further reading

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