John Chapple: Architect and Clerk of the Works St. Albans Abbey
John Chapple was one of ten children born to George and Mary Ann Chapple [1]. His brothers were named Alfred George and Arthur Thomas (who died aged 11 months and was buried 26th May 1838 [2] ). John had an elder sister, Elizabeth, and four younger sisters, Julia (born 1839), Lucy Ann (1832), Harriet Mary (1849), and Maria Jessie (1845) [3]. There were two other brothers, both with the same name, Henry Torrington (a common practice). Both died in childhood, one aged 3, buried 2nd January 1834, and the second died aged 7, buried 2nd September 1842. [4]
The 1841 Census gives the address as High Street Dulverton.
At the time of his first marriage 26th May 1851 at St. Peter’s Church Bedford to, Louisa, nee Peacock, born in 1817, died April 1860 aged 43, (MI) [5] John Chapple was a saddler as was his father George Chapple. [6]
John and Louisa had one son, John Hubert Chapple. Sadly John died November 1859, aged 7.
The East Window, St. Peter’s Church Bedford, is a Memorial to Louisa Chapple and John Hubert Chapple [7]. A Dedication Service was held October 28th 1876 and the design of the stained glass window was by Burlison & Grylls.
The Inscription reads:
“To the Glory of God and in memory of Louisa Chapple who died 13th April 1860 aged 43 and of John Hubert her son died 30th November 1859 Aged 7”
[1] Dulverton Baptism Records 1825-1834 All Saints Church
[2] Dulverton Burial Records 1830-1844
[3] Dulverton Genealogy Transcription Records (Baptisms, Marriage & Burials at All Saints Church)
[4] Dulverton Burial Records 1830-1844
[5] East Window, St. Peter’s Church, Bedford
[6] Pigot’s Directory of C1844 Page 059. George Chapple – Saddler & Ironmonger.Somerset
He was also Post Master
[7] East window St Peter’s Church Bedford
[8] Stained Glass Memorial Window St. Peter’s Church Bedford
