Last updated 13:28, Thursday, 08 May 2008

I was interested to read your reporter Dave Gudgeon’s feature on Wreay Church’s refurbishment, and re-opening for worship (News & Star, May 1).

Talking piece: Wreay Church has long been considered special

I am enclosing a postcard, dated February 1, 1910, showing the interior of that fine church, complete with oil lamps.

Wreay was originally a Chapel-of-Ease in St Mary’s (Carlisle) parish.

Mannix and Shelan’s 1847 Directory tells us that the original Chapel-of-Ease was consecrated by Bishop Fleming in 1739, when the curate’s salary was worth £20 yearly, plus a good house.

A new parsonage was erected in 1846 on the site of the old one by the Rev Richard Jackson, built in the Elizabethan style.

The living then was worth £75 pa in 1847.

The directory also states that this church was rebuilt in 1843 (not 1842 as stated), at a cost of £1,200; all donated by Miss Sarah Losh, save for a small amount given by the Dean and Chapter of Carlisle.

The altar is supported by two eagles, carved in brass, besides the wooden eagle lectern.

The chancel is semi-circular with windows cut to represent antediluvian flowers – that is flowers which are believed to have existed before the great flood of Noah.

In this chancel are seven lit lamps intended to represent the seven spirits in the book of Revelation.

The church turret is crowned by a Roman eagle.

JOHN NM CHARTERS
Plumbland
Aspatria