Church of St James, Avebury

Church of Anglo Saxon origins of 950-1000 AD with 12th-15th century work. There were alterations in 1812 and the chancel was restored in 1879 by R J Withers. Built of dispersed sarsen and flint with limestone dressings and ashlar west tower. Aisleless nave, West tower and chancel. Anglo-Saxon cross and impost fragments are built into the South porch and nave walls.

AVEBURY - The Rev. Bryan King, whose troubles at St. George's in the East twenty years since made his name familiar to most readers, appeals for aid to restore his church at Avebury, near Calne. The church contains work of the Saxon and Norman periods, with considerable additions of the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, whilst some most interesting wall paintings of the fourteenth century have been lately brought to light. All these historic records will be preserved with the most scrupulous care, in the hope that at some future day the exquisite chancel screen, the windows, and the walls may be restored, as special gifts, to their original grace 'and beauty. At present the church is in a state of general dilapidation, but a commencement has been made in its repair by the almost entire rebuilding of the chancel and of the east wall of the nave, in accordance with the original proportions, under the directions of Mr. Withers, and this has resulted in the improved appearance of the building. [Building News 18 July 1879 page 84]

Reference    Building News 18 July 1879 page 84
Reference    ICBS 08305