St Jude
Plymouth, Devon
Built in the Gothic Style on a main crossroad as Plymouth expanded in the later Victorian era, beginning services in 1877 before adding its spire in 1881.
People have worshipped on the site of Holy Cross for over 900 years.
A church on this site is first mentioned on the Saxon Geld Roll of 1084, when 'St Mary of Newton' was one of those lands held free from geld (tax). At that time the church is likely to have been a simple timber building, probably occupying what is now the west end.
The church was rebuilt by the Ferrers family early in the 12th century and around 1260 the family built a new church, naming it Holy Cross. In 1342 Holy Cross church was enlarged by the then rector, Henry de Ferrers. During 19th century restoration work, foundations of a Norman church building were discovered. The piscine in the sanctuary and the sedilia in the chancel are in the Early English style of the 14th century.
In 1460 the north and south aisles were added, as well as the tower which is topped by four 14 foot high granite pinnacles. A rood screen was erected in 1520 but removed during the reformation. In 1886 major restoration was completed to plans drawn by Architect, G Fellowes Prynne, including raised, reslated roof, enlarged porch, tiled flooring and hot air heating. The church contains many fine stained glass windows and an 1840s pipe organ built by Deane of Taunton.
