Kirkconnel Parish Church And Churchyard

The Kirkconnel Parish Church, a T-plan church, was completed in early 1731, although a 1729 datestone was re-set in the porch in 1923. The church was altered in 1896 by MacGibbon & Ross of Edinburgh, with the addition of a central apse on the long south wall, a vestry to the east gable, and an extension to the north jamb featuring a Venetian window opposite the apse. The roof was also heightened at this time.

The building is constructed of rubble with ashlar margins. The apse features three keystoned round-headed windows, while the other openings are mostly square-headed. Re-used carved stones are incorporated into the apse, including two Corinthian pilaster capitals, a stylised angel, and an open book. A single window is located either side of the apse. Blind elliptical oculi are present in each gable, and stylised urns decorate the foot of the skews and above the west gable. A distinctive apex birdcage belfry sits atop the east end, featuring a stepped base, bell-cast roof, and urn finials. A piended vestry abuts the east gable, with a tall stack and a south-facing door and window. A gabled porch is located on the west wall of the jamb.

The roof is covered with graded slates, curved over the apse, and features a cross finial and red ridge tiles, along with an axial ventilator. The interior boasts an open timbered roof and leaded windows. An octagonal pulpit with cusped panels is present, alongside an early cross socket. Stones from the earlier Old St Conal’s have been incorporated into the porch of the jamb.

The churchyard is quadrangular and enclosed by rubble-built walls with ashlar coping. A gate is located at the west end with square gatepiers. A selection of good 18th and 19th century stone monuments are present.

Historical records indicate that in 1727, representatives were appointed to select a site for the church and manse. Kirkconnel parish had previously been suppressed. The first minister of the newly established charge was Peter Rae, who was a printer, clockmaker, scholar and mechanic. The church remains in ecclesiastical use.