Oakley
St. Mary's Church
Oakley > Churches
The lower stages of the tower are of Norman work of the late 12th century. The chancel and the arcades of the nave date from the 13th century with the church being remodelled in the 15th century when the upper stage of the tower was rebuilt. The bells date from the 17th century with one being dated 1600.
The main restoration came in 1913-15 when the church was thoroughly restored mainly be money donated by the Duke of Bedford with the chancel being repaired rather than rebuilt. With an organ chamber added and a new roof provided.
Sources
- The Newspaper Cuttings Collection, Local Studies Library, Bedford Central Library
- PICKFORD, C. Bedfordshire Churches in the 19th century, B.H.R.S. Vol.77 1998.
Saint Mary's Church, Oakley, by Bedfordshire Libraries, 2012
Page last updated: 3rd February 2014