St Mary's C E Primary School - Rawtenstall, Rossendale
Stained glass commission from Lancashire County Council.
1994/5
Approx size: 36" x 72" (920mm x 1830mm)
Design: R.W.C. (in conjunction with children of the school).
The images in the window were drawn by the children attending Rawtenstall St Mary's C E Primary School with the help of David Moore during the academic year of 1994/5. The window was commissioned by Lancashire County Council.
Details include the red rose of
Lancashire, which forms an important symbol. The dates commemorate
the opening of the original building (1884) and the replacement
building (1995).
The top part of the window reflects images of the Rossendale valley, including
steep hills and the River Irwell. Situated in this setting is a representation of
the front of the old building next to the church of St Mary's. An image which
represents their physical proximity and spiritual connection.
The bottom half of the window contrasts images of school life over the period of the original building. At the bottom left of the window is depicted the foundation stone of the old building representing continuity and solid foundations. At the bottom right can be seen the
Rossendale coat of arms.
The main family in the area in the 19th century was the Whitehead family.
They built three mills and among other buildings were responsible for the first
school serving the children in the vicinity of St Mary's. Their family symbol is
the holly leaf, depicted in the bottom right hand corner of the window.
Design
Finished window
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