Browse images of Acton
Sponsored by John Gorst
Captions by Betty Milburn

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Acton, All Saints church from SE

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 nd

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The flint, early English style church was built c1250 when the entrance was through the tower, which was later demolished. The south aisle and porch date from the 15th c.

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Acton, All Saints church from E

Date: 

 nd

Caption:  

The small vaulted chapel on the south side was built in 1726 by his widow, Ann, for Robert Jennens Esq owner of the nearby mansion known as Acton Place.

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Acton, All Saints church from W

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 nd

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A major restoration of the church was undertaken by William Milner Fawcett in 1885/6. The tower, however, which contained 5 bells, was deemed too dangerous to repair and was partially demolished. It was eventually restored in 1923 and the 5 bells rehung in 1926.

Title 

Acton, All Saints church from SW

Date: 

 nd

Caption:  

View from the south west showing the south porch with its flat roof and parapet, the Jennens chapel and the remains of the 13th century tower.

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Acton, All Saints church, interior from W

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 nd

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The Victorian restored nave. Some Medieval benches have survived, along with many of the poppyhead pew ends, including two with carvings of moorhens. Oak from Acton Place was used to remake the roofs, although some earlier carvings were preserved.

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Acton, All Saints church, interior

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 nd

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A decorative Gothic Arch on the north side of the chancel with fine detailing. Beneath it is an ancient altar monument now robbed of all its brasses. Its origin is unknown, but assumed to have been that of an important benefactor.

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Acton, All Saints church, monument

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 nd

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The marble monument of Robert Jennens, d 1725, adjutant to the Duke of Malborough, is attributed to Henry Scheemaker and Henry Cheere. It was put up and the little vaulted chapel built for it by Jennen's widow, Ann, who is seen sitting by his feet.

Title 

Acton, All Saints church, monument

Date: 

 nd

Caption:  

The monument also gives details of his son William, who died 1798. William inherited the grand house of Acton Place built by his father but never completed. His reluctance to spend his considerable wealth earned him the nickname of 'the Acton Miser'. On his death the house was demolished.