The ecclesiastical architecture of the mediæval period terminated at the
introduction of the Reformation in 1560, but during the latter half of
the sixteenth and the greater part of the seventeenth century a number
of churches were erected which show some attempt to maintain or revive
the style of earlier times. This tendency was doubtless encouraged by
the strenuous effort which was made, under James I. and Charles I. and
II., to establish the Episcopal forms of Church government and service
in Scotland. These forms being contrary to the desire of the
Presbyterians, who comprised the great body of the people, gave rise to
two opposing parties. The party favourable to the Episcopal form of
religion supported the erection of churches and the maintenance of the
worship as nearly as possible after the old model, while the
Presbyterians and Puritans discouraged everything which savoured of the
ancient faith, whether in buildings or services. The result was that
during the century which followed the Reformation there were two styles
of ecclesiastical structures erected in the country, one style showing
some reverence for the house of God in its form and decoration, and in
the appropriateness of the divine service; while the other seemed to be
designed, both in its buildings and forms of worship, to be as far
removed as possible from any outward or visible sign of inward sweetness
or grace.
It is proposed to conclude this work with some examples of the different
styles of churches erected during the above period.