A son’s ransom – CCT North Yorkshire series Traditional Cache
Dalesman: The cache owner is not responding to issues with this geocache, so I must regretfully archive it.
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[ST]
A son’s ransom – CCT North Yorkshire series
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Difficulty:
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Size: 
(small)
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Situated near the Church of Christ the Consoler within the grounds of the Newby Hall estate, the cache is a small-sized container that can accommodate small trade items and travel bugs. Though the church is not in active use, both it and the churchyard remain consecrated, so please use stealth and discretion when searching for the cache. When Newby Hall is closed, there is still public access to the church via a marked tree-lined footpath to the right of the main gate.
Completed in 1876, the lavish Church of Christ the Consoler is one of Victorian architect William Burges’ masterpieces as well as being a mother’s poignant memorial to her murdered son. In 1870, Frederick Vyner, at the age of 23, was kidnapped in Greece along with seven other travelers. The ransom was raised by his mother and brother-in-law, Lord Ripon, but Frederick was tragically killed by the kidnappers during a botched rescue attempt by Greek troops. The family decided to spend the unused ransom money on the construction of two churches: one on the grounds of Newby Hall and the other at Studley Royal near Fountains Abbey. William Burges, famous for redecorating Westminster Palace and rebuilding Cardiff Castle, was inspired by medieval French church architecture in his design as seen in the large rose window and gothic styling. Surrounded by large beech trees, the church is an impressive sight.
No expense was spared on the interior of the church as well. Rich colour is everywhere with different marbles gracing the floors and walls, gilded mosaics, and light filtered through jewel-toned stained glass windows. There are beautiful details throughout but of particular note are the font and cover (installed by Lord and Lady Ripon in memory of their baby daughter), the organ and organ loft, and the west window featuring Christ the Consoler and the Conditions of Life. When inside, don’t forget to sign the guestbook!
In 1991, the church ceased to function as a parish church and passed into the care of the Churches Conservation Trust (CCT). The CCT keeps the church open to the public and welcomes geocachers to enjoy this beautiful testament to a mother’s love.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Ybbx arne gur onfr bs gur gerr
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