History of the Parish

Sherwood Episcopal Church is one of 118 parishes in the Diocese of Maryland. This beautiful 1830 gothic-revival style sanctuary overlooks the Western Run Valley and the town of Cockeysville, with which we share a long and rich history. Our membership is a small devoted congregation and we accomplish a great deal through the efforts of dedicated members who generously contribute their time and talents. We support the individual needs of our parish family and the sharing of God’s love with our community.

Frances Thwaits Deye Taylor offered the community (Rector, Vestry and Congregation) a gift of five acres of land with a chapel to be built there. In return for this gift, Mrs. Taylor requested the chapel be called “Sherwood” after her own estate in Cockeysville, and taken from Sherwood Forest in England. In addition, Mrs. Taylor asked that her plans for the chapel be used in its construction. The original chapel was shaped in a simple T, made of stone covered with stucco. Application for admission to the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland occurred in 1836. Members of the original Vestry included Colonel Nicholas Merryman Bosley, Nicholas Merryman, and Joshua Cockey. Descendants of these families have continued to support Sherwood for over 170 years.

The period of the Civil War was especially difficult for Sherwood. Like many families in Maryland, Sherwood families were often divided in their loyalties; some believed in the Southern cause while others believed that splitting the Union would cause significant harm. The Reverend John Francis Hoff, who served Sherwood during this time, was described as a very kind and compassionate gentleman who worked hard to prevent open hostilities among the congregation

The tenth rector, Adolphus Pindell, was called to Sherwood in 1875, retiring in 1916. One of his first official acts was to abolish pew rents. This period was active and productive; the chapel was enlarged and by 1883 became a Church.

Following World War I, Sherwood’s history once again became tumultuous for several decades, although by 1949 there were 142 active communicants, and the Vestry was expanded to nine members. A new rectory was constructed in 1957, and in 1968 a local bank donated a building for use as a parish office. Moved to the site in 1969, it was first used as the home of the Church School that numbered 35 in 1974. During this period there was an active Young People’s Fellowship program.