Speen Vicar’s Portrait, Neglected for Years, Revived at St Mary’s Church

A painting in poor condition was discovered beneath a church altar. It is believed to be nearly two centuries old. The portrait, which has now been restored, celebrates an important figure.

The painting depicts Henry William Majendie, who served as Speen’s vicar during the 1800s. He significantly contributed to the village and supported neighboring parishes. Three members of St Mary’s Church, Brian Nobes, Jo Fageant, and Rev. Macdonald, spearheaded the restoration. They repaired the portrait after its rediscovery at the altar.

Nobes explained that their benefactor had been overlooked. They decided to raise funds for his restoration, recognizing his contributions extended beyond the church to the entire village. Majendie was born in 1791 and became Speen’s vicar in 1819, a position he held for 50 years. He passed away in 1869 and also served as rural dean for 40 years.

He facilitated the construction of Church of England schools in Stockcross. In addition, he financed the building of St John’s Church, which took place from 1838 to 1839. Majendie also funded the construction of the hall at St Mary’s Church in Speen, completed in 1860, where his restored portrait will be displayed.

The hall connects to the old church and is the likely location for the portrait. Fageant expressed his excitement at seeing Majendie’s work appreciated. Rev. Macdonald shared his anticipation of seeing people enjoying the hall. Majendie also helped build another St Mary’s Church, costing around £7,000, from 1829 to 1831.

This church once stood on the corner of St Mary’s Road and London Road but was demolished in 1976. Flats now occupy the site, but a memorial plaque dedicated to Majendie remains inside. He also founded the Speen Cottage Hospital, opening it in 1869. Ironically, he became its first patient and also its first fatality.

On December 16th, Majendie fell and broke his leg while walking home from Newbury. He was admitted to the newly opened hospital. He died there the following day at the age of 78. After 1885, Speen Cottage Hospital transitioned into a home for convalescent individuals. It now serves as a residential home.

Church members rallied to raise the approximately £800 needed for the restoration. Fortunately, local residents generously contributed the entire amount. Maria Teresa Molner, a restorer, undertook the painting’s repair and returned it this month. Nobes praised her exceptional work. The identity of the artist and the painting’s date remain unknown. No signature or date was found on it.