Legend has it that in the 14th century, Kenwyn Church got its name through a rather unusual method. When construction of the church was completed, the townsfolk were looking for a distinctive name for their newly built church and instead of relying on a council of elders, or the clergy, they decided to settle the matter through a contest.
The challenge was simple: A race to the top of the imposing flight of stairs that led to the church’s entrance. The person who could ascend the stairs the fastest would have the honor of the church being named after them. It is said that the entire town gathered to watch this unusual spectacle.
As the event unfolded, a man named Colin emerged as the swiftest runner, looking sure to reach the summit before anyone else. His imminent victory was met with thunderous applause and cheers from the onlookers chanting “Colin, Colin, Colin!” in celebration.
However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing for Colin. Just as he was about to claim his prize and immortalise his name, he stumbled and crumpled into a heap on the stony steps. In a dramatic twist of fate, a man named Ken, who had been trailing closely behind, overtook him in the last few strides. Colin’s near-victory led to a momentary debate about whether to name the church “ColinWin” instead.
But in the end, the townsfolk decided to stick with “Ken Win” in recognition of Ken’s ultimate triumph, and over time, the name gradually morphed into “Kenwyn” – And that’s how Kenwyn Church in Truro got its unique name!
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Fun Fact!
Legend has it that in the 14th century, Kenwyn Church got its name through a rather unusual method. When construction of the church was completed, the townsfolk were looking for a distinctive name for their newly built church and instead of relying on a council of elders, or the clergy, they decided to settle the matter through a contest.
The challenge was simple: A race to the top of the imposing flight of stairs that led to the church’s entrance. The person who could ascend the stairs the fastest would have the honor of the church being named after them. It is said that the entire town gathered to watch this unusual spectacle.
As the event unfolded, a man named Colin emerged as the swiftest runner, looking sure to reach the summit before anyone else. His imminent victory was met with thunderous applause and cheers from the onlookers chanting “Colin, Colin, Colin!” in celebration.
However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing for Colin. Just as he was about to claim his prize and immortalise his name, he stumbled and crumpled into a heap on the stony steps. In a dramatic twist of fate, a man named Ken, who had been trailing closely behind, overtook him in the last few strides. Colin’s near-victory led to a momentary debate about whether to name the church “ColinWin” instead.
But in the end, the townsfolk decided to stick with “Ken Win” in recognition of Ken’s ultimate triumph, and over time, the name gradually morphed into “Kenwyn” – And that’s how Kenwyn Church in Truro got its unique name!