Chelsea, in the Olden & Present TimesBryan, George
History
Chelsea, in the Olden & Present Times
Bryan, George
Chelsea (London, England) -- History
The pulpit of wainscot is octangular, and stands on a frame work of
pointed arches; it is not wanting in ornament but it falls short of the
ancient oak carvings. The reading desk, also of wainscot, which is
situated on the opposite side of the nave, is similar in design. The
fronts of the galleries are set off with panelling, having cinque-foil
heads; but wanting that boldness of relief which distinguishes the
ancient specimens of carved wood work; to the altar chairs, the same
remark applies.
* * * * *
The font is situated in the centre aisle, near to the pulpit and reading
desk; it is of an octangular form, and sustained on a pillar of the same
shape. The different sides are panelled, each containing a shield in an
enriched quatrefoil, and the pillar is ornamented with upright panels.
It is executed in marble, and the carving appears to be highly deserving
of praise.
* * * * *
Within the last few months there has been placed in the church a lectern,
which corresponds with the general character of the edifice.
* * * * *
The entire edifice is highly creditable to the parish, and may be
considered as a lasting monument to the memory of Mr. James Savage, the
architect.
* * * * *
The crypt or vaults under the church are well worthy of inspection. They
are conveniently approached, on the north side, by a flight of steps, and
are lofty, light, and thoroughly ventilated. Here may be seen the
foundation of the tower, which is an inverted dome, and all the columns
of the nave are likewise built on and connected by inverted arches. No
doubt the construction of these numerous vaults added considerably to the
aggregate cost of the edifice, and when interments were prohibited in the
metropolitan parishes the anticipated return was at once stopped, still
they strengthen the entire fabric, and ensure a freedom from damp, which
is most desirable. In several of these vaults are deposited the remains
of some of the most respected parishioners.
The fees for burials in the vaults were as follow:—
Single Coffin. Parishioner. Non-Parishioner.
An Adult £13 0 0 £19 10 0
Children, 7 to 14 yrs. 8 0 0 12 0 0
„ under 7 yrs. 5 10 0 8 5 0
None but leaden coffins, enclosed in wood, were allowed to be deposited
in the vaults, nor of less thickness than 5 lb. to a foot superficial.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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