Slains Kirk 1920s

The original kirk, built in 1599, was dedicated to St Ternan and called St Ternan’s Chapel.  All that remains of the original building is the Errolls’ Aisle. Situated in the old kirkyard near the south wall, the Errolls’ Aisle is the last resting-place of several members of the Erroll family.

At the beginning of the 19th century the building was in such a bad state of repair that a decision was made to demolish it and plans were drawn up for the construction of a new one.  Dedicated in 1807, the new building was designed to seat approximately 650 people on two floors.  The ground floor pews and boxes all faced the pulpit, centrally situated on the south wall.  The upper level pews provided seating in a horseshoe gallery.  A subsequent refurbishment, undertaken in 1930, resulted in the removal of the horseshoe gallery.  The family boxes were also removed and replaced with pews. It was also in 1930 that the lower level burial ground, formerly the manse garden, was dedicated by Rev James Ross after the Armistice Service on 9th November. Following the retirement of the Rev John Murray in 1972, the Parish of Slains was united with the Parish of Ellon. 

In July 2007 Slains Kirk marked the 200 year anniversary of the present building by holding a celebratory weekend of music and exhibitions, culminating in a rededication service led by the Rev Steve Emery.

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