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With its tall spire and view across the river Tweed to Floors Castle,
Kelso North Parish Church is a well known landmark.
Designed by Frederick Pilkington and built in 1866, the church has
a typical complicated front. In contrast, the simple, wide
interior has a high wooden roof structure, with tie rods leading
to a carved central boss.
Along the front of the gallery, the carved spirals echo those of
the roof.
The pipe organ is encased in oak with matching side panels, communion
table and as finishing touches, two finely carved angels.
Above the pulpit the beautiful stained glass window depicts Christ
as the Good Shepherd and is attributed to Stephen Adam. The angel
faces and the roundels with flowers and foliage are
particularly fine.
On the walls hang one set of 8 collage pictures, created in 1988,
the work of the Junior Church children and teachers. On the reverse
side, created by members of adult organisations in 1989, the pictures
depict scenes from the Old and New Testaments.
In the vestibule, a fine pastel drawing of Dr Horatius Bonar, his
biography and list of many well known hymns hangs between the windows.
Be sure to note the carved pineapple knob at the foot of the staircase.
Pilkington insisted on the wide wood panels - to preserve the ladies'
dignity as they ascended!
The royal blue and clear glass lunette window, almost certainly
designed by Pilkington, gives a distinctive touch to this important
doorway.
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