Christ Church, Castlebar

Christ Church, Castlebar

Christ Church, Castlebar,  November 2024

 

Christ Church, Castlebar, is one of the town’s most significant historical landmarks. Situated on a raised site adjacent to The Green, the Church’s location underscores its historical importance within the community. A tree-lined path known as the Mall once connected the Church directly to the residence of the aristocratic Bingham family known as Lawn House.

Christ Church Castlebar was constructed between 1826 and 1829 on the site of an earlier church, also known as Christ Church. The first Christ Church, which followed the design of Richard Cassells, took three years to build and was completed in 1739. In 1752, Richard Pocock described it as a handsome church built on a Greek cross plan with three galleries and a Cornish of hewn limestone. The roof was covered in slates from Sleanbawn Quarry. The names of the founders of the Church are inscribed on a foundation stone in the churchyard. During the Battle of Castlebar on 27 August 1798, the retreating Government forces took a defensive stand at Christ Church. The names of six members of the Fraser Fencible Regiment who died in the battle are inscribed on a stone plaque in the churchyard. The Church likely sustained some damage during the battle, but the extent is unknown.

 

At noon on Christmas Day 1810, the wooden spire of Christ Church was materially damaged when it was hit by lightning and totally consumed by fire. The body of the Church was not damaged. A recently installed bell fell but was not damaged.

In November 1825, proposals were sought for the reconstruction of Christ Church. A new church was completed sometime in late 1829 or 1830. The reconstruction received financial support from the Board of First Fruits. A description of architectural and other notable features can be found at https://www.buildingsofireland.ie/buildings-search/building/31209010/christ-church-castlebar-or-aglish-church-street-knockaphunta-castlebar-mayo.

 

On 21 January 1833, the new Church narrowly survived destruction when a spark from a stove in the Church ignited a turf pile. The military saved the Church. Two pews and wooden flooring were damaged. During the great storm of 6-7 January 1839, one of the pinnacles of the steeple was blown down.

 

Today, services are weekly on Sundays at 10a.m., and the church is open to tourists and visitors most Fridays from 11am - 1pm. The church also serves as a sought-after venue for many concerts and cultural events. 

Thanks to Dr Michael O'Connor for his contribution to this page to ensure historical accuracy.

Christ Church, Castlebar Memorials. 25.8.2023.