All Saints' Church, Oystermouth, Swansea, Glamorgan

Description

Denomination: Anglican

Dedication: All Saints (but see Note 1)

Built: 13th century
Extended: 1860

Photography: Edward Llewellyn-Jones
Date: 1 April 2011
Camera: Sony DSC-WX1 digital

Note 1: All Saints, Oystermouth . . . may have originally been dedicated to St Illtud. [Source: The People of Gower, by Derek Draisey, Draisey Publishing, Swansea, 2003; ISBN 0-9546544-0-4]

Note 2: There has been a church at Oystermouth since the days of the Celtic church, as this church is mentioned by Nennius in the 9th century. It is probable that there was a llan here before the ninth century, and conceivable that the present building is on the original site. Beside, or beneath the church, was a Roman building with a tessellated floor, fragments from which have been found at various times. The north aisle of the present building was the original church until it was enlarged in 1860. The architecture of the present south aisle is typical of the Early English architectural period and the eastern end is a good example of early 13th century design. Following the Norman occupation of Gower, the church was granted to the Abbey of St Peter at Gloucester. In 1367 the church was transferred to the Hospital of St David in Swansea, which retained it until its suppression in 1540. Within the church can be seen some fragments of Roman mosaic, an early font and a pillar piscina. [Source: The Churches and Chapels of Gower, The Gower Society, Llandybie, 2007; ISBN 0-902767-39-9]

Note 3: The tower, long nave, and chancel are all probably of 13th century origin although the tower top and several windows are late medieval. The chancel has three east lancets and contains a pillar piscina. It and the nave now form a south chapel and aisle to a large new late 19th century church. There is a scalloped Norman font. [Source: The Old Parish Churches of Gwent, Glamorgan & Gower, by Mike Salter, Folly Publications, Malvern, Worcestershire, 1991; ISBN 1-871731-08-9]

Image 2:

Altar in the Lady Chapel – formerly the sanctuary of the original ancient church.

Note 4: Oystermouth Parish Church, dedicated to All Saints. Situated about the centre of the parish. Supposed to have been consecrated centuries ago, but age unknown. Under what circumstances consecrated or licensed: the Minister cannot tell, save and except its being consecrated to the worship of Almighty God and dedicated to his service.

• http://www.jlb2011.co.uk/walespic/churches/oystermouth1.htm (link opens in new window)