All Saints' Milton Ernest Visitors
Welcome to Milton Ernest. The village is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 though the name was spelt differently in those days, and has indeed changed from time to time down the centuries. The 'Ernest 'is derived from 'Erny's the name of one-time Lord of the Manor.
Welcome too to All Saints. Previously known as 'All hallows', All Saints' Church dates from the 11th century and probably replaced an earlier wooden building. The 75 foot tower is 13th century and has 6 bells which are still in use, and a clock dated 1882.
The oldest part of the church, the western end of the chancel dates from early C12 whilst the west tower was added in C13. The eastern extension of the chancel dates from the early C14 along with the original south aisle and later in C14 the north aisle. The south aisle was rebuilt when the porch, parvise and clerestory were added in C15.
These alterations and enlargements mean that the church has examples of all the Gothic styles: Norman, Early English, Decorated and Perpendicular. More recently it was restored during 1858 to 1865 by William Butterfield.
The three photographs below show (from left) the octagonal font which is made of clunch or soft limestone with angle buttresses clear of the centre stem, the church organ which was moved moved to this location in the 1970's, and thirdly shelves Susanna Rolt’s name a weekly donation of 12 loaves of bread was made to the needy in the parish and the shelving for these loaves is on the north wall of the aisle.
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The upkeep of this Grade I historic building is considerable and is in part possible thanks to outside donations, including monies from English Heritage, in addition to considerable sums raised within the village, so we can keep it in good order, to be able to pass it on to future generations as they in the past have done for us.
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The Vicarage
Thurleigh Road
Milton Ernest
Bedford MK44 1RF
01234 918027
- The Vicarage
- Thurleigh Road
- Milton Ernest
- Bedford
- MK44 1RF
01234 918027
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