St John the Evangelist
Luton, Devon
Sometimes referred to as the little church with the big heart.
St James’ church was the heart of old West Teignmouth. The original church, dedicated in 1268, was demolished in 1819. The current limestone octagonal building, incorporating the tower of the original church, was consecrated in 1821. The tower, built from local red sandstone, was used as a lookout and is the oldest building in Teignmouth. The ancient belfry ladder, inside, made of wych elm and oak stands 22 feet (7 metres) high. It is said that Admiral Sir Edward Pellew, who was a significant benefactor of the rebuilding, may have influenced the choice of this unusual design. Graceful cast iron fluted pillars support the roof. Galleries, since removed, provided seating for 1500.
The memorial window in the north face of the nave depicts the Regimental and Naval badges and the names of over 100 West Teignmouth parishioners who died in the First World War. The 55 who lost their lives in the Second World War are also commemorated.
Elias Parish Alvars, born in Teignmouth in 1808 and baptised in St James, was a notable composer and harpist achieving international acclaim. His father, who owned a music shop in Wellington Street, was the first organist at St James. Thomas Luny, the marine artist, who lived and worked in Teignmouth, is buried in the churchyard, as are many local men of the sea.