St Edward's School Oxford and the Great War 1914-1918

HAPEL

NTERIOR DURING THE

REAT

With Warden Ferguson’s arrival the Chapel’s interior changed dramatically with the previous ‘Oxford Movement’ influences, which included high ornate altars, banners

hanging from the ceiling and a profusion of crosses which were paraded before and after the services being done away with and much plainer, humbler surroundings

installed. This was not met with universal approval as Warden Algernon Simeon, the first Warden and his three successors were still alive, as well as several of the Governors,

all of whom were ardent followers of the Movement. More comfortable seating (‘Jubilee Chairs’) was provided facing the altar instead of rather than the congregation facing

each other. There was still no electric lighting or central heating yet installed - gaslight and candlelight prevailed and with poor ventilation made for an oppressive atmosphere.