Saving Applegarth Church: A Community Effort to Secure Its Future
- Jardine Clan Society
- Nov 24
- 3 min read
Applegarth Church, a place rich in history and spiritual significance for the Clan Jardine, closed its doors on 31st December, 2023. This closure marked the end of an era for many who hold the church dear, especially descendants of those buried in its churchyard. After being put on the market by the Church of Scotland on 1st April, 2024 (not an April fools hoax), the community rallied together to save this landmark. A group made up of neighbours, local residents, and Jardine descendants worldwide submitted a bid by the 23rd June deadline. This offer was accepted, opening a new chapter for Applegarth Church.
On Sunday, 30th November at 2pm, a short ceremony will be held where Andrew and Kirsteen Michell, alongside Sir William Jardine of Applegirth, with local and international Jardines and other families, will take possession of the keys. Dugald McLeod will be playing his Pipes! Everyone is warmly invited to attend.
This post explores the journey of this community effort, the significance of the church, and the plans underway to secure its future. Your ideas and support will be vital as we move forward.
The Historical and Spiritual Importance of Applegarth Church
Applegarth Church has long served as the spiritual home for the Clan Jardine. For centuries, it has been a place of worship, reflection, and community gathering. Many Jardine ancestors rest in the churchyard, making it a site of deep personal and cultural connection.
The church’s architecture and setting also reflect the heritage of the region. Its walls have witnessed countless ceremonies, from weddings to funerals, and its presence has been a constant in the lives of local families.
Losing such a landmark would mean more than just the loss of a building. It would mean losing a tangible link to the past and a place where memories and traditions are preserved.
The Closure and Sale of Applegarth Church
The Church of Scotland decided to close Applegarth Church at the end of 2023 due to declining attendance and rising maintenance costs. The decision was difficult but necessary from their perspective. On 1st April, 2024, the church was officially put on the market.
This announcement sparked concern among the local community and Jardine descendants worldwide. Many feared that the church might be sold to private owners who would not preserve its heritage or allow public access.
The closing date for bids was 23rd June, 2024. During this period, a group formed to submit a £70,000 offer that would keep the church connected to its community and history.
The Community Group and Their Successful Bid
The group that came together, spearheaded by Kirsteen and Andrew Michell, to save Applegarth Church included neighbours, local residents, and Jardine descendants from around the world. Their shared goal was to protect the church and ensure it remains a place of heritage and community.
Their offer was accepted, marking a significant victory for the community. This success shows the power of collective action and the importance of preserving cultural landmarks.
Kirsteen and Andrew Mitchell own and run the highly acclaimed B&B and self-catering cottages at Applegarth House, located right next door to the church . Huge thanks go to Kirsteen for leading the charge on rescuing the church and also congratulations on being finalists for 'Best Guest House/ B&B Experience at the South of Scotland Thistle Awards 2025.
How You Can Help Secure Applegarth Church’s Future
The Friends of Applegarth Church charity SCIO has been established and officially registered. Jardines from across the globe are gathering to commemorate this significant change. On Sunday, 30th November at 2pm, a brief ceremony will take place where Andrew and Kirsteen Michell, accompanied by Sir William Jardine of Applegirth, along with local and international Jardines and other families, will be handed the keys. Dugald McLeod will be playing his Pipes! Everyone is warmly invited to attend.
The success of this project depends on ongoing support from the community and beyond. Here are ways you can contribute:
Share your ideas: The group welcomes suggestions on how to use the church space and engage the community
Donate to the Trust: Financial contributions will help with restoration, maintenance, and programming
Volunteer your time: Help with events, fundraising, or maintenance work
Spread the word: Inform others about the church’s history and the effort to save it
Every contribution, no matter how small, will help ensure Applegarth Church remains a place of heritage and community for generations to come.
The acceptance of the community’s offer to purchase Applegarth Church marks a hopeful new beginning. As the Trust forms and plans develop, the church will continue to be a place where history lives and community thrives. Your involvement will make a difference in shaping this future.
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