Matfen, Northumberland Genealogy

= Parish History =

Matfen Holy Trinity was created in 1846 from Stamfordham Ancient Parish.

"The Church dedicated to the Holy Trinity, is situated on the south side of the Pont, overlooking the village of Matfen.

It was erected in 1842 at the sole cost of Sir Edward Blackett, and consists of nave, chancel and tower, which houses three bells.

The style of architecture is Early English with single lancet windows.

Matfen was constituted a separate parish in February 1846.

After a period of years the patronage of the living was conveyed by the founder to the Bishop of Newcastle and it has recently been reconveyed to the Crown.

The organ given by Ursula Lady Blackett was built recently by Mr Nigel Church". [The Newcastle Diocesan Gazetteer (1982), page 38.]

= Parish Records =

Matfen, Holy Trinity: Records of baptisms 1844-1974, marriages 1846-1979 and burials 1845-1972 are available at Northumberland Collections Service.

A transcript of monumental inscriptions at Stamfordham, Ryal and Matfen (microfiche TN87) is published by Northumberland and Durham Family History Society and these records are also available in book form at Newcastle Central Library, Local Studies Department.