LincolnshireALFORDStWilfrid(richardcroftCC-BY-SA2.0)1 RichardCroft

St Wilfrid

Marvellous 14th century church, renovated by Sir George Gilbert Scott and birthplace of Anne Hutchinson, first female preacher in American history.

Alford, Lincolnshire

Oriau agor

Open daily from dawn to late afternoon.

Cyfeiriad

Church Street
Alford
Lincolnshire
LN13 9EQ

Anne was the daughter of Alford's vicar, Francis Marbury, who taught her theology. In 1634 she emigrated to America with her husband and family, She hosted Bible study groups in the Massachusetts Bay Colony, but her teaching was so radical that she was excommunicated and forced to leave the colony. She settled in the Rhode Island colony in 1642 and died in an attack by native Americans the following year.

The church contains a memorial to Anne on the left wall near the font. 

Of note also is the parvise, over the south porch. It is a small chamber that was originally used as quarters for the priest. In 1569 the parvise was used as the home of a grammar school dedicated to Queen Elizabeth I. 

  • Wildlife haven

  • Spectacular stained glass

  • Social heritage stories

  • National heritage here

  • Magnificent memorials

  • Glorious furnishings

  • Fascinating churchyard

  • Famous connections

  • Enchanting atmosphere

  • Captivating architecture

  • Walkers & cyclists welcome

  • Steps to enter the church or churchyard

  • Space to secure your bike

  • Parking within 250m

  • Level access throughout

  • Dog friendly

  • Bus stop within 100m

  • Church of England

Contact information

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