Through the indefatigable energy of Dr. Anson, the present Dean, many
most important improvements have been introduced into the interior of
this noble edifice, which have added very much to its decoration and
general effect. In 1843, the munificent sum of £4,000 was contributed
for the purpose of giving effect to the praiseworthy object of restoring
some portion of the ancient beauties of the Cathedral. A new organ has
been erected, of great power and richness of tone, the top of which is
carved with tabernacle work, in unison with that of the choir. The old
pews, which were sadly out of keeping with the rich Gothic woodwork of
the stalls, have been removed, and the choir has been new seated in the
Gothic style.
The whole of the choir has been vaulted, which has greatly contributed to
its improved appearance. A great number of beautiful stained-glass
windows, principally the gifts of private families as obituary memorials,
have been introduced since the commencement of the improvements in 1843.
The large window of stained glass, at the west end, was presented by Mrs.
Hamilton, of Hoole, by whose liberality a splendid restoration of the
Lady Chapel has been effected.
The interior of the Cathedral excites a general feeling of admiration,
which the exterior fails to realize.
THE CHURCH OF ST. OSWALD’S,
as already mentioned, forms the south transept of the choir of Chester
Cathedral. After the introduction of regular monks into the monastery of
St. Werburgh, anciently dedicated to the Holy Trinity and St. Oswald, the
name of this patron saint was retained by that part of the conventual
church which was set apart for the uses of the inhabitants of the parish,
within which the monastery was placed. This part probably occupied the
site of that transept of the Cathedral which forms the present parish
church. The name of St. Oswald does not, however, appear to have been
originally used for the parish. In the licence of appropriation by
William Cornhall, Bishop of Coventry, it is called the parish church of
St. Werburgh.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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