Image ID: 08534

St John of Jerusalem's Church, Winkburn - Burnell family box-pew

Courtesy of Reg Baker

Near Winkburn Hall
Winkburn
England

The Church of St John of Jerusalem, Winkburn contains remains of Norman stonework; the Norman tower was rebuilt in 1632. Some time in the twelfth century both church and town of Winkburn were given to the Knights Hospitallers of St. John of Jerusalem, one of the military orders of the religious, who were introduced into this country about A.D. 1100. The Knights retained possession until the seizure of monastic property by Henry VIII, when Winkburn reverted to the Crown, and was granted by Edward VI to William Burnell, Esq., and Constance his wife, with whose descendants it still remains. In 1588 the manor appears to have been occupied by Elizabeth, Countess of Rutland, as there are in the Belvoir Manuscripts numerous letters from her ladyship dated from Winkburn. John, Earl of Rutland, died in March, 1587-88, and it is probable that the house would be taken for awhile by the widow, as affording a peaceful seclusion from the troubles and anxieties of public life at the Court of Queen Elizabeth. After the temporary occupation of Winkburn by the Duchess as tenant, the owners resumed possession of their estate, the head of the family resident at the Hall being William Burnell. The church contains memorials to members of the Burnell family.

Date: 01/06/1985

Organisation Reference: NCCE002346

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