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A church has stood on the present site since around 1130 AD, when the most substantial part of the present edifice was erected. Its artistic sumptuousness is almost certainly due to its proximity to Copford Hall. Gifted to Bishop Elfstan in 995 AD, this was the ancient manor of the bishops of London during the rule of the later Saxon kings of England. It is referred to in the Doomsday Book of 1068 as "Copeforda", being held in Lordship for 1½ hides and 18 acres (approximately 150 acres altogether). The bishops held the manor until 1559 when the catholic Bishop Bonner was dispossessed of his holdings for refusing to take the oath of allegiance and supremacy to the new protestant Queen Elizabeth I. The style and quality of the church, and above all its decoration, strongly suggest that the early Norman bishops regularly resided in the manor and that the church was built as their chapel. Indeed, Bishop Bonner was apparently buried here in preference to a London resting place (see Local history/information for more). Until the late 19th century, the church was originally dedicated to St. Mary, the Virgin.
The container is your normal 35mm film case.
If any body would like to add to this series, please do, but could you please let sadexploration know first, so he can keep track of the Church numbers and names to avoid duplication.
First to Find........Andy UK 63