We are delighted to share some very special news:
Applegarth Church has been successfully saved from an uncertain future.
Applegarth is the clan seat of the Jardines and is described as a “holy place”, with a church — and before that, a monastery — on the site continuously since 600 AD. When the church closed in 2023 and was suddenly put up for sale earlier this year with just one week’s notice, we faced an impossible decision. With only three days before the deadline, and not wishing to own a church (!), we launched a last-minute appeal to those with connections to Applegarth.
We reached out to the Jardine Clan via Facebook and contacted former guests with connections to the church. To our utter astonishment, nearly £70,000 was pledged within 48 hours from supporters around the world. The asking price was offers over £55,000, and we are immensely relieved that our bid and proposal were accepted.
Five months later, the purchase was completed, and we welcomed Jardines from America and South Africa for a ceremonial handover of the keys. The Clan Chief, Sir William Jardine of Applegirth (medieval spelling), attended with his family, alongside 80 others from the local community.
Future Plans for the Church are to: House an exhibition on the history of the area – Be available for blessings, weddings and funerals – Provide a venue for art exhibitions, concerts and community events.
This remarkable outcome has been a truly global and deeply moving effort, and we are proud to be custodians of such a special place.
Photo: A symbolic photograph taken days before the ceremonial handing over of the keys to The Friends of Applegarth Church SCIO.