3-008-628 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre at Northampton, in process of restoration, 1862. 'The whole of the exterior restoration has been completed...under the direction of G. G. Scott, Esq., B.A....The church consists of the original Norman Round Church, founded about A.D. 1090, the Norman chancel having many centuries ago disappeared and been substituted by an early decorated chancel...This portion having fallen into a dilapidated state and been much mutilated by successive alterations, and the Round being no longer suitable or large enough for the populous parish (now containing upwards of 10,000)...it was determined that the chancel should...be extended eastward, and discoveries made during excavations show that it now occupies its original site...The new portions are constructed of the local red sandstone, the dressings being of red and Bath stone varied...The roof of the apse is constructed of oak, pine, and mahogany, in rich ornamental patterns, Mr. John Watkins, of Northampton, being the contractor for this portion. The carving, the cost of which is provided for by special donations, is being executed by Mr. Farmer, of London...The total cost is estimated at about £6000, of which, we understand, about £1500 remains to be raised'. From "Illustrated London News", 1862.