St Agnes' Church, Freshwater Bay
St Agnes' Church, on Gate Lane, Freshwater Bay is the only thatched church on the island and, despite this, is relatively modern having been opened in August 1908[1].
The church was built as a Mission Church attached to the Parish church of All Saints, Freshwater to meet the needs of the growing population in the Bay area, especially in the summer when visitors increased the numbers. For some years previous to 1908, an iron church has been used as a branch of All Saints by residents in the Bay area but this had become inadequate for the summer needs.
The site of the church was presented by Lord Tennyson, (Hallam Tennyson, 2nd Baron) from his Farringford Estate.
The architect was Mr. Isaac-Jones of Herne Hill, and Messrs. White Brothers were the contactors.
- ↑ Isle of Wight County Press - 15 August 1908 - page 3 - Opening if a new church at Freshwater Bay
