St Michael and All Angels (St Michael's on the Mount)

The origins of Anglican worship in Orford trace back to a humble timber shed nestled amidst the rugged landscapes of Crabree's Quarries, a relic of the area's industrial past. Originally serving as the timekeeper's office at the Okehampton Quarry, this modest structure became the unexpected cradle of religious gatherings for the burgeoning community. In 1883, the edifice found a new home at the rear of the present church site, under the auspices of the Reverend Clifford Power, who bestowed upon it the name St. Michael's on the Mount. For close to half a century, this diminutive sanctuary provided solace and spiritual nourishment to the faithful.

The resonance of the church's bell, once suspended in a towering gum tree, echoed across the countryside, a melodious beacon summoning worshippers from afar. Yet, the jubilant tolling of the bell on Armistice Day, heralding the end of World War I, proved to be its poignant swan song, as it succumbed to a sorrowful crack under the exuberant hand of Mr. Fred Mace.

In a symbolic gesture of continuity and renewal, the foundation stone for the new church, St. Michael and All Angels, was ceremoniously laid on the *28th July 1929, a momentous occasion presided over by Mr. Frederick Mace, a venerable figure renowned for his dedicated service as a lay preacher. With a construction cost totaling £450, the new church stood as a testament to the enduring faith and commitment of the community.

However, the sands of time wrought changes, and St. Michael and All Angels found itself on the Anglican rationalization list, its doors eventually closing to regular worship. Subsequently advertised for sale, the church underwent a metamorphosis, emerging anew as 'The Church at Orford,' offering sanctuary of a different kind as a distinctive accommodation option.

For a visual glimpse into the transformed interior of this historic edifice, one need only peruse the photographs featured in the provided link: The Church at Orford, a poignant testament to the ever-evolving tapestry of Orford's rich heritage.

For photographs of the converted inside, see the link: The Church at Orford).

• Church News, September 1929 records the date Saturday 27th July 1929.