The original Norman church was built in about 1140. It was of the type common in villages of the period, a long narrow building with a roof of
thatch or shingles of wood.

Of the 13th Century Early English church, which succeeded the
Norman building, the Porch, the Chancel Arch (now behind the organ),
the Hagioscope (Squint) and the Font remain. The Squint is now filled in.

The Tower is 14th Century and houses five bells.

Early in the 15th Century the present flamboyant windows were inserted
into the south wall. In the heads of the windows are fragments of old painted glass – the Sacred Monogram and the Monogram of St. Mary the Virgin. Another window features the Tudor Rose of Henry VII.

The removal of plaster from the walls disclosed paintings of different dates in every part of the church. In the gable at the east end above the ceiling was discovered the Coat of Arms of Charles I with the motto ‘Feare God, Honour thy King’ painted above it.

The enclosed wooden staircase leading to the clock and bell chambers
is thought to be unique, dating from the Tudor period.

It is recorded that before the dissolution of the Monasteries during
Henry VIII’s reign, the Monks from Cerne Abbas would preach at the
ancient Stone Cross, the remains of which are within the churchyard.

The church was largely rebuilt in 1890-1891 under the leadership of the
Rev. J. C. Prior, Vicar of Charminster. At that time, St. Mary’s, Stratton was
a chapel dependent on Charminster.

St. Mary’s, Stratton was joined with Bradford Peverell in 1931 and with Frampton and Sydling St. Nicholas in 1977.

The Registers of Baptisms, Marriages and Burials date from 1561
and are held at the Dorset History Centre in Dorchester.

For detailed historical facts use the buttons below to take you either to the Dorset On-line Parish Clerk website or the Dorset History Centre website.