Overton’s history as a “church manor” dates back to at least the reign of King Alfred the Great. His successor, Edward the Elder, solidified this connection in 909 by confirming a Crown grant of Overton to the Bishop of Winchester. While little remains of Saxon-era places of worship on the current site of St Mary’s, the church’s roots lie firmly in this period.
The origins of the present church building can be traced to the late Norman period. Although only the nave pillars remain from the original structure, records indicate that it had a three-bay nave in 1180. The old church likely featured narrow aisles and a small chancel.
With Bishop Henry de Lucy’s establishment of a new market town across the Test at Overton (around 1215-1220), the need for a larger church became evident. This led to the rebuilding of the chancel in approximately 1250, as evidenced by the plate tracery in its windows. Additionally, the aisles of the nave were probably widened during this time to accommodate the growing congregation.
For centuries, the Bishop of Winchester appointed the Rector of Overton church and parish, who often did not reside locally. The Rector, in turn, appointed a Vicar to conduct services and serve as the “Parson.” The names of these Rectors and Vicars since 1246 are recorded on a diptych board in the north aisle.
The present aisles of the nave likely date from around a century after the first entries on the diptych board. The impressive main entrance door, with its unique folding design and ornate ironwork, is believed to date from approximately 1350-1400. This door may be linked to a dramatic incident involving sanctuary at St Mary’s during the time of Bishop William of Wykeham.
In the late 15th century, the tower was rebuilt further west than its predecessor, and the nave and aisles were extended to meet it. The new tower featured wooden board cladding and a timbered spire. The chancel was also enlarged during this period to its current length.
The entire church underwent significant re-roofing and rebuilding in 1853. While much of the older fabric was preserved, the rebuilt tower did not last long and required extensive repairs. A two-manual organ was installed in 1882, and a vestry and new organ chamber were added in 1897.
The tower was rebuilt again in 1908, incorporating salvaged medieval masonry. The chancel was also fitted with new choir stalls and clergy prayer desks. In 1932, the Lady Chapel altar was dedicated in memory of Charlotte Leonora Cooper.
In 1999, a significant extension to St Mary’s was completed, adding new church rooms to the rear (North) side of the church. These rooms blend seamlessly with the existing architecture and are connected to the church via a glazed link adjoining the tower. The rooms are in use seven days a week by both church and non-church groups. On Sunday mornings, several youth groups within St Mary’s hold their meetings and can easily move to and from the regular church service.
In 2005, St Mary’s underwent a major refurbishment, including improvements to the heating and lighting systems and the decoration of the walls. This project also took the opportunity to make better use of the underutilized Baptistry and Tower areas.
The Victorian stone font was relocated to a more prominent position at the front of the north aisle, allowing a larger portion of the congregation to witness and participate in baptisms. The entrance porch was modernized to incorporate improvements for easier access by those with disabilities.
Would you like to get more information about St Mary’s, Overton?