|
As
is so often the case, this church has been altered or restored throughout
the ages. The nave is essentially C16 with C15 windows. The chancel was
added in 1840 when the opportunity was taken to restore the chancel arch.
The impressive tower was added to a design by G R Crickmay of Weymouth,
who was also responsible for the chancel. There is a splendid barrel roof
to the nave. The chantry chapel on the south side is entered through a
wide and generously decorated arch. The area houses the electronic organ.
The hexagonal font is C15.
The
most important artifact in the building is the superb sculpture of St
Giles executed by Benjamin Grassby. He was a superlative London craftsman
who made his home and workshop in Powerstock after falling out with his
employer. He entered the statue in a class at the Dorset Industrial Exhibition
in 1878. It won its class and he was awarded a silver medal. Grassby's
work can still be found in 45 Dorset churches.
(See East Holme, North Poorton, East Lulworth, Longbredy, Morden and West
Lulworth to name just a few)
An interesting church well
worth a visit.
|