We Know Your Name ~ St John the Evangelist Newtimber
St John the Evangelist, Newtimber Church, Church Lane, Newtimber, Hassocks, West Sussex, BN6 9BT
This C13th medieval church was restored in C19th using proceeds from the enslavement of African people in the Caribbean, was then funded by landowners who supported the Abolition of Slavery. These family links led to a maritime tragedy for Black East African soldiers fighting for Britain in the First Word War.
We recently discovered that Charles Gordon, a C19th benefactor of Newtimber Church, owned 3 Jamaican plantations, worked by enslaved people. We have researched the names of the enslaved people & learned how they generated wealth for their enslavers.
Following abolition of slavery in 1833, the Gordons received compensation for financial losses – part of £20million paid by British government to enslavers. Enslaved people received no such compensation. The Gordons spent some of this money transforming Newtimber Church, adding the tower.
Our exhibition showcases this rediscovered history. We now know the names of the enslaved people who toiled on the Gordon plantations. Visitors are invited to help record the names of the enslaved workers on banners to be hung from the tower ~ recording their names on the building paid for by their enforced labour.
Newtimber church has memorials to the Buxton family, descendants of abolitionist Sir Thomas Fowell Buxton & a memorial for over 600 East African soldiers, drowned when the SS Mendi sank in 1917.
We are proud to share the stories of important global events in this rural spot.
Timings & Tours
- Saturday 13 September:
- 1000-1600
Location & directions
St John the Evangelist, Newtimber Church, Church Lane, Newtimber, Hassocks, West Sussex, BN6 9BT
- Directions:
- Drive north out of Brighton and come off at the HENFIELD A281 junction, just before the Texaco garage. Stay on the A281 for 2 km and the sign for Newtimber Church is just after the hill on your right. Park along Church Lane.
- Contact on day:
- Ngaire Digby
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
The brick path from the road to the church is wide enough for a wheelchair, but a bit bumpy, and may not be suitable for an electric wheelchair. Plenty of parking along Church Lane. There are two steps into the north transept where the Gordon memorial is, which will restrict some visitors.
Additional information
The church will have displays and leaflets giving you a better understanding of the memorials in the building, revealing our colonial heritage. Refreshments available from 10.30 - 4.00 on 13th Sept We have woodland and exploratory activities for young children available in the entrance. They are available for visitors now and throughout the summer. The churchyard is always a wonderful place to sit and rest. Bring a picnic, especially if it's sunny. Newtimber church is open all year round and welcomes ramblers, D of E, scouts, school parties, cyclists, Brighton Fringe, recitals & talks.
