The History of the Churches in Rugeley

Rugeley is a small town in Staffordshire, England, located on the River Trent. It has a long and varied history, with evidence of human activity in the area dating back to the Iron Age. The earliest known church in Rugeley was built in the 12th century and dedicated to St. Mary Magdalene. This church was destroyed during the English Civil War and replaced by a new building in 1660.

The current parish church of St Augustine’s dates from 1845 and is an impressive Gothic Revival building designed by architect Edward Blore. It features a tall spire, stained glass windows, and an organ built by Henry Willis & Sons. The church also houses a number of memorials to local people who died during World War I and II.

The town also has two other churches: St John’s Church (built in 1868) and St Peter’s Church (built in 1875). Both are Anglican churches that serve the local community with regular services and activities.

Notable priests associated with Rugeley include Revd William Henry Bury (1820-1890), who served as vicar of St Augustine’s for over 40 years; Revd Thomas Bury (1825-1902), who served as vicar of St John’s for over 30 years; and Revd William Henry Bury (1850-1917), who served as vicar of St Peter’s for over 20 years. All three were highly respected members of the community and are remembered fondly today.

One notable event that took place at Rugeley was the visit of Queen Victoria in 1843. She attended a service at St Augustine’s Church, where she was presented with a Bible inscribed with her name by Revd William Henry Bury. This Bible is still kept at the church today as a reminder of her visit.

In more recent times, Rugeley has seen its fair share of controversy surrounding its churches. In 2011, there were protests against plans to close down both St John’s Church and St Peter’s Church due to declining attendance numbers. Despite this, both churches remain open today thanks to strong support from local residents and clergy alike.

Today, all three churches continue to serve their communities with regular services, activities, events, and outreach programmes aimed at helping those in need within Rugeley and beyond. They are also popular tourist attractions due to their impressive architecture and historical significance within the town’s history.