Derek Spencer, a 99-year-old Armitage veteran, recalls a remarkable life—from boyhood adventures and wartime service across the globe to decades working in local industry. A vivid storyteller, Derek’s life reflects both national history and village change, offering a rare window into 20th-century Rugeley and Armitage life.
Tag: Armitage
From Fiddles to Pipes: The Musical History of St. John the Baptist Church
During the English Civil War singing carols was banned as it was considered a political act and sinful. However, throughout its history, St. John the Baptist church has always resounded with music. But until the mid-1800s there was no organ available so different approaches were taken to enrich the services. The parish clerk in the… Continue reading From Fiddles to Pipes: The Musical History of St. John the Baptist Church
St. John the Baptist Church Tower
The west-end tower of St. John the Baptist Church, largely unchanged since 1632, reflects centuries of adaptation. Its battlements, diagonal buttresses, and pinnacles define its exterior, while its bell chamber has evolved through renovations. Despite past structural challenges, ongoing restoration ensures the tower’s enduring presence in Staffordshire’s historic landscape.
Restoring Faith: The Resilient History of St. John the Baptist Church
By the mid-18th century, St. John the Baptist Church faced the toll of centuries of wear. Essential repairs began in 1752, restoring the roof and steeple, but by the 1840s, larger reconstruction was necessary. With the population growing and the church in disrepair, the nave and aisles were rebuilt, blending Norman and Gothic styles.
From Hermit’s Haven to Parish Landmark: The Ancient Church of Armitage
Step back to 1790 and explore the historic St. John the Baptist Church. From Saxon carvings to medieval relics, uncover the secrets of this ancient gem before its rebuild. A journey through faith, architecture, and local heritage awaits!
A Historic Chapel’s Transformation: From Worship to Cannabis Factory to Home
Built in 1820 as a private Congregational chapel, this Gothic Revival gem evolved over centuries before ceasing religious use in 1999. After a controversial stint as a cannabis factory, it faced years of neglect. Now, with plans approved, this Grade II Listed Building is set for a new life as a home.
John Webb, Gardener to The Gentry
By Roy Fallows The churchyard to St John the Baptist parish church in Armitage is a pleasant place where generations of local families have been laid to rest. Most of the headstones and memorials are quite modest and in various states of repair. However, a short walk to the west end of the church reveals… Continue reading John Webb, Gardener to The Gentry
Lodge Cottage
Lodge Cottage in Armitage reveals centuries of history, from its 15th-century cruck-frame origins to intriguing features like a coffin chute and witch marks. Once part of the Armitage Lodge estate, this Grade II-listed building embodies architectural evolution, local folklore, and careful preservation.
Ringing Through the Centuries: The Story of St. John the Baptist Church Bells
The bells of St. John the Baptist Church in Armitage have evolved from two simple 16th-century bells to six majestic ones by 2001. They echo centuries of history, innovation, and community effort, celebrating milestones and bringing life to the village with their resounding melodies.
Discovery of a vault under the chancel of Armitage Church
The rediscovery of a hidden 19th-century family vault beneath the chancel of St. John the Baptist Church in Armitage revealed links to the Lister family of Armitage Park. Likely built by Thomas Lister (1772-1828), the vault adds a fascinating chapter to the church’s rich neo-Norman history.