PAST VICARS OF CLAVERING

A list of 36 vicars of Clavering (in addition to the present incumbent) can be found on the wall of the Parish Church to the left of the doorway (Click here for photo). The earliest recorded is Nicolas de Bocking in 1335. Since the church is thought to be built in the later 14th century, the first two or more of the names on the list may pre-date the present building and relate to the earlier one on the same site. Many of the incumbents were also masters of Christ's Hospital School, which had the living of Clavering for centuries. As Eileen Ludgate remarks, surprisingly little is known about most of the earlier vicars. What little there is will mostly be found in her books – there is material relating to Thomas Simpson and John Smith of the 16th century, for instance and John Smith also has a memorial in the chancel. The only other vicar memorials are for Rev Charles Malden of the 1930s and, to the left of the tower arch, the quaintly-named Rev Lancelot Pepys Stephens of the early 19th century. Other 19th century vicars who made their mark included William Bowra who started the first Sunday school and George Brooks who built the National School in the churchyard. In the 20th century, Ernest Stone saw the village through the difficulties of the Second World War, and Michael Atkinson instigated the 1980s restoration which saved the church fabric from decay. Any family historians who can contribute further information about past Clavering vicars is most welcome to contact us.
Jacqueline Cooper, Clavering Local History Recorder

LIST OF CLAVERING VICARS