A Rich History of Faith and Architecture

St Peter ad Vincula Church, located in Combe Martin, Devon, is a historic parish church with origins dating back to at least the 12th century. The church's name, "St Peter ad Vincula," translates to "St Peter in Chains," a dedication shared by only fifteen churches in England, reflecting its unique historical significance.

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Early History and Foundation

The exact date of the church's foundation is uncertain, but historical records indicate that by 1133, a chapel dedicated to St Peter existed in Combe Martin. A Latin charter from that year documents a dispute over the chapel's ownership between the monks of St Pancras and Robert fitz Martin, the lord of the manor and son of Martin de Tours, who held the area after the Norman Conquest. This conflict was resolved before Bishop William Warelwast of Exeter, highlighting the church's early establishment and its significance within the community.

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Architectural Evolution

The church showcases architectural developments spanning several centuries. The oldest parts of the church, including the chancel, south transept, and sections of the nave, date from the 13th century. The presence of Early English lancet windows, a style prevalent between 1190 and 1230, supports this dating.

Significant expansions occurred in the 15th century, notably the addition of the north aisle, north chancel chapel, north porch, and the imposing west tower. The tower, rising to 99 feet, features four stages with embattled parapets, crocketed pinnacles, and large three-light Perpendicular bell openings on each face. The north transept was added in the late 15th or early 16th century, further enhancing the church's cruciform layout.

In 1725, the south porch was rebuilt, reflecting the architectural styles of that era. The church underwent restorations in 1858 and again in 1881 to preserve its structural integrity and historical features.

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Interior Features

The interior of St Peter ad Vincula Church is rich in historical and artistic elements. A notable 15th-century oak rood screen separates the chancel from the nave. Remarkably, all but three of the original Tudor painted panels depicting the Apostles and Christ have been preserved, making it a rare example in North Devon.

The baptismal font, dating to 1427, is designed in the Perpendicular style. It features an octagonal lead-lined bowl adorned with blind tracery panels and retains traces of its original paint. A parclose screen, believed to date from around 1333, encloses the Lady Chapel, adding to the church's collection of medieval woodwork.

The church features Devon cradle or wagon roofs, characteristic of the region. The north transept's ceiling is particularly notable, adorned with star motifs and representations of "Green Men."

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Monuments and Memorials

Several monuments within the church commemorate notable figures. A marble wall monument honors Judith Ivatt, who died in 1634, wife of Thomas Ivatt, a principal searcher in the Port of London. A brass plaque commemorates William Hancock, who died in 1587, featuring his coat of arms and an inscription detailing his contributions.

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Churchyard and Community Significance

The churchyard holds historical importance, particularly with the grave of James Norman, the church sexton who lived from approximately 1844 to 1898. His story inspired the character Reuben Dale in Marie Corelli's novel The Mighty Atom (1896).

A war memorial, designed by W.C. Willis and unveiled in 1921, stands in the Garden of Remembrance, honoring the village's fallen from both World Wars.

St Peter ad Vincula Church remains an active center for worship and community gatherings. Regular Sunday services are held at 10 am, fostering a welcoming environment for both parishioners and visitors. This enduring edifice not only serves as a place of spiritual significance but also as a testament to the rich historical tapestry of Combe Martin, reflecting centuries of architectural, artistic, and communal evolution.

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