 Checkendon
Ipsden
North Stoke
Stoke Row
Whitchurch
Woodcote
Contacts
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Introduction
The Church of St John the Evangelist was consecrated on the 19th October 1848. Until that date, the hamlet was
part of the parish of Ipsden and North Stoke, though with Ipsden Church 4 miles away, church attendance was not
very good. The Vicar of the time, the Revd Richard Twopenny, had the support of Bishop Wilberforce of Oxford
and many benefactors, especially Mr John Reade and his family of Ipsden House, raising £2,500 for the work.
The site for the church, vicarage and school were given by St John the Baptist College, Oxford.
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The Church Building
The building is a beautiful example of simple Victorian architecture. The rectangular floor
space accommodates a nave seating about 90 people and a spacious chancel area. There is a
tower at the north east corner which houses the vestry, clock and bell.
This delightful rose window was designed and made by Barbara Batt.
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The Maharajah's Well
At the time of building, the population of Stoke Row was 300, but this began to grow when, in 1864, the Maharajah
of Benares donated the funds to sink a well in the village for a water supply. In addition he provided a cherry
orchard so that villagers would have the means to maintain the well. Today, the Maharajah's Well brings many visitors,
and the adjacent Well Orchard has been the scene of numerous village activities - most recently the Stoke Row
Festival of May 2000 which celebrated many aspects of village life.
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Stoke Row School
There continues to be a close relationship with Stoke Row Church of England
(Controlled) Primary School, with a weekly assembly during term time at 9 am on Wednesdays.
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The Still Centre
Today the Church is developing as a Still Centre - a place where people can call in for quiet and reflection.
Candles, stones, a simple water feature and music contribute to the ambience and are aids to reflection.
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