By: K. E. Clauss

K. E. Clauss — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 13:05:25 +0000

what is the history of Stephen Langton’s association with the church…and … the Magna Carta?? Reference to North stained glass window .. very bottom right image.

By: Philip Darling

Philip Darling — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 19:58:20 +0000

I was “employed” by Manpower Services in the early 80s. We had completed work on the offices of Variety club of Great Britain at 32 Welbeck Street, and the restoration of the Russian Orthodox Church at the rear, which could be reached via Marylebone Mews. I assisted the artist, Helen Grunwald, who was commissioned to paint the apse, panels, and dome of the church, which when completed, unfortunately did not meet with the tastes of the VCGB.
We were, however asked if we would be willing to help out in turning the crypt area, beneath St Dunstan-in-the-west, as it was being converted for use by a youth group.
I seem to remember it was to the left of the main church building, and almost immediately, on lifting the floor, we were confronted with human remains. We raised concerns, and were sdvised that we should ceas work until the site had been investigated by the powers that be. We were advised that there was every chance that the remains were plague victims, as they were not “laid out” but all bundled together, and we were then issued with white plastic suits, face masks, rubber gloves, and steel toed wellies, which we were advised to wear throughout the work being completed. I remember it being extremely hot, despite being underground, and as each new fragment of remains was discovered, we were required to notify our site manager and the bones would then be placed in a large chest, in heavy duty bin loin liners. We were advised there would be a ceremony for the lost souls, and they would be re-buried nearby.
There had been assigned to the task, about 15-20 of us, however after the discovery, only a handful remained, as some were fearful.
We eventually completed removing the remains and then spent a weekend laying a new concrete floor.
All our suits, boots, gloves and masks were destroyed, although I can remember an employee of Manpower did try and sell of the boots to make some extra cash, as the MSC had already kitted us out with work boots and overalls, before the discovery.
If any of the above is of use or interest I’m happy for you to use it, check the details, or contact me, if required.
I’ve recently been contacting Mark Hill, one of the antiques experts, probably best known for his appearances on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow, as he owned some work by Helen, and wondered if it was associated with 32 Welbeck Street, and the attached church. I gave him as much information as I could recall.

By: C Conner

C Conner — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 03:44:21 +0000

i am planning a trip to London just to see this fabulous place! Featherstone is my many times great grandfather!

By: John Springer

John Springer — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 22:12:49 +0000

Did the Romanian iconostasis just come over in 1966? I have a black and white real photo postcard of it which I had assumed was older. Thanks for the wonderful tour of the church.

By: Therese V Powers

Therese V Powers — Sun, 10 Sep 2023 15:07:56 +0000

In my own wanderings I recently passed by this church, and, not knowing much other than it seemed to have some stories behind it, took some photos. I had the intention of finding out more about it but you have done much of the footwork for me! I am grateful. Thank you once again for connecting us to the past! I have ordered your book – I am sure I will love it.

Comments on: 8 Fascinating Details To Spot At St Dunstan-In-The-West

By: K. E. Clauss

By: Philip Darling

By: C Conner

By: John Springer

By: Therese V Powers