St Mary's is the oldest church in the borough of Dudley with parts of the tower dating back to the 11th century. It is of a red brick sandstone construction although the exterior walls which were rendered are currently covered with stone cladding. Sadly, this does not do the church any justice. However, it is a beautiful church in a beautiful setting situated behind a green, surrounded by cottages. The church appears to have undergone much restoration throughout the centuries. In 1831, the church was closed when it was threatened by mining activites but reopened in 1846 to serve a smaller parish.
This is the most peaceful and interesting churchyard we have visited. It has some of the oldest headstones that we have seen, including two in particular which are of sandstone and dated 1653 and 1655.
Medieval Cross, St Mary's Church, Kingswinford (2009).
The cross, base and shaft are medieval. This is a truly amazing monument.
Headstone of John Hil, St Mary's Church, Kingswinford (2009).
Monumental Inscription
HERE LYETH THE BO/DY OF JOHN HIL DE/SESED THE 9 OF/MAY 1653 AND AN/HIS WIFE AL SO
