The interiors of our churches contain a wealth of beautiful and fascinating artefacts, often of historical interest. Until NADFAS (now The Arts Society) Church Recorders were established in 1973 no complete or central records of church artefacts existed. The aim of Church Recorders was to provide an accurate and complete inventory of the church’s contents with detailed descriptions, measurements, background and photographs.

How was this achieved?

A team of volunteers worked in a local church. Records followed a standard strict format so researchers could easily find what they were seeking. They were divided into nine categories: memorials, metalwork, stonework, woodwork, textiles, paintings, library, windows and miscellaneous. Recorders usually worked in pairs on one or more of these sections. The final record was then compiled with photographs.

When the Church Record was completed copies were distributed to:

• the church
• the diocese
• the local Records Office
• Victoria & Albert Museum
• National Monuments Record Centre

Alresford Arts Society has produced two Records, one for St Mary's Easton and one for St Mary's Avington. 2020 marked the presentation of the 2000th Church Record for the Arts Society. Sadly Central Office have now decided that they can no longer support Church Recording. However individual Societies will be able to continue independently but any such Records will be for the benefit of the Church and will not held by national bodies. If you are interested in recording please speak to a member of the Committee.