St Olaves is relatively modern when compared with some of the ancient churches and their contents on the Wolds. As it is frequently open why not pop inside and view its ancient elements - a runic cross, a fine tapering gravestone from medieval days, and an ancient small stoop. The rose window of pierced stone and coloured glass is also beautiful and perfectly formed.
The village of Ruckland itself dates back to the Doomsday Book, when a church was mentioned as existing there in 1086. At the time the manor there belonged to Earl Hugh, a friend of William the Conquerer.
St Olaves had a very unique and important rector in the shape of George Hall (1863–1918). He was a member of the Gypsy Lore Society, and spent so much time in the gypsy community that it was said no one from outside of a gypsy family knew more about their ways. In 1915 he published his book, The Gypsys' Parson - His Experiences and Adventures.
The churchyard contains the war graves of a Royal Navy sailor and an Army Veterinary Corp soldier of the second world war. That soldier was the son of The Gypsys Parson George Hall. When he went away to war and perished, the Rector died of a 'broken heart' and they are intered together.
A beautiful and fascintaing church, despite its tiny size.
“If anybody would like to expand to this series please do, I would just ask that you could let Sadexploration know first at churchmicro@gmail.com so he can keep track of the Church numbers and names to avoid duplication.
There is also a Church Micro Stats & Information page found via the Bookmark list”