Keysoe
Saint Mary's Church

Places > Keysoe > Churches

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There is a mention of a William as Vicar of Keysoe 1154-89 and part of the masonry in the south wall with two 12th century doorways survive from the church that existed at that time. The church was enlarged by the addition of the north aisle and south porch in the 14th century and the north chapel, west tower and spire in the 15th century.

In 1718 William Dickens, mason fell from the steeple while pointing the spire, miraculously he survived his fall. From 1836-1874 the Vicar of Keysoe was the Rev. William Airy brother of the Astronomer Royal and an antiquary of some standing. In 1873 Bryceson Brothers and Morten, organ builders, London, erected a medieval gothic organ. In 1883 extensive restoration took place with the removal of plaster for the walls, re-seating, a new east window by Powell in memory of Airy and other improvements. Anew organ was installed in 1908 with the old one going to Bolnhurst church.

Sources:

• The Newspaper Cuttings Collection, Local Studies Library, Bedford Central Library.
• PICKFORD, Chris.   Bedfordshire Churches in the Nineteenth Century Part 2 H to R.  BHRS Vol.77 1998.

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Saint Mary's Church, Keysoe by Bedfordshire Libraries, 2011

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Page last updated: 30th January 2014