The Church Furnace

Most visitors to the church fail to spot an item of our heritage which is thought to be unique - the church boiler and heating system! The Perkins High Pressure Hot Water Heating System was installed in 1897. Only seven of these have been found still existing, and this is the only one which is still in use! More information.

Our church heating system was developed by a guy called Angier Perkins, originally from the USA. He was joined in the UK in the 1830's by another American to learn about this new science. Being from New England, Joseph Nason saw a bright future for this technology in his homeland. After learning the craft, he returned to Boston and went into business with his brother-in-law James Jones Walworth. Together, these two men installed some of the first steam and hot water heating systems in the new world. One of the most notable installations undertaken by the duo was a modification of the central heating system at the White House!