The Tortoise Stove

The Tortoise Stove in St. Mary's Belchamp Walter.

The Charles Portway Stove in the church is difficult to miss. It stands in the Nave directly in front of the main South entrance. It is one of the features of the Church that I first noticed on my initial visit. Then I saw the murals and the remains of a chantry chapel.

In my opinion there many things in the Church of St. Mary that should be preserved, however, my thoughts are not necessarily shared by others in the community. The stove is one such item.

Repair, restore or preserve?

This is a current question. In my opinion the stove should be preserved as it is and NOT USED. It should not be restored as this will destroy the modifications that are part of its charm. It should not be repaired as this would contribute to the integrity of its heritage.

The current state of the stove

There is significant deterioration of the iron casting of the stove. There are voids in the top casting and while, if lit, the smoke and fumes do not enter the Church and go up the chimney, it has been determined that this is a potential fire risk.