Where is St Matthew's Church?

St Matthew's Church at St Matthew’s Centre, St Matthew's Close, Walsall, WS1 3DG

 

In brief

A Grade II* listed Church of England parish church in Walsall. St Matthew's was formerly called All Saints' Church. It was rebuilt by Francis Goodwin during 1820-21, including the remains of an earlier church dating to 1220 which was dedicated to All Saints. It's on Historic England's Heritage at Risk Register.

St Matthew's Church, Walsall (April 2023). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

St Matthew's Church, Walsall - history

There has been a church on this site since the early 13th century, under the name of All Saints' Church.

St Matthew's Church, Walsall (April 2014). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

There is elements of this church dating to the early 15th century, and lead lining from the early 18th century.

St Matthew's Church, Walsall (April 2014). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The church we see today is from the rebuilding from 1820 to 1821 by Francis Goodwin.

St Matthew's Church, Walsall (April 2014). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The late 15th century chancel was restored by Ewan Christian between 1877 and 1880.

St Matthew's Church, Walsall (April 2014). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

There is a timber screen dating to 1915.

St Matthew's Church, Walsall (April 2014). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Under the western end of the chancel is a late 13th century crypt.

St Matthew's Church, Walsall (April 2014). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

To the east is a 15th century tunnel-vaulted crypt.

St Matthew's Church, Walsall (April 2014). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The church has been a Grade II* listed building since November 1951.

St Matthew's Church, Walsall (April 2014). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The first Rector was appointed by King John in 1211.

St Matthew's Church, Walsall (April 2014). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

From 1248 to 1538, the appointments of Rectors was given to Halesowen Abbey.

St Matthew's Church, Walsall (April 2014). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

After the Reformation, Rector appointments were made by the Earl of Bradford, and transferred to the Bishop of Lichfield in 1945.

St Matthew's Church, Walsall (April 2014). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The east window commemorates Sister Dora and the stained glass is the work of Burlison and Grylls.

St Matthew's Church, Walsall (April 2014). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Contact details

St Matthew's Church

St Matthew’s Close

Walsall

WS1 3DG

01922 626039

office@stmatthewswalsall.co.uk