Vestry and levied a local tax on produce known as a tithe. The decline of the feudal system and, following the Reformation in the 16th century, the power of the Church, led to a new form of township or parish meeting, which dealt with both civil and ecclesiastical affairs. This new meeting was supervised by the parish priest, probably the best educated of the inhabitants, and it evolved to become the vestry meeting. As the complexity of rural society increased, the vestry meetings pragmatically acquired greater responsibilities, and were given the power to grant or deny payments from parish funds. Although
Kensington Vestry Hall Kensington Vestry Hall The Kensington Vestry Hall is a historic building on Kensington High Street in Kensington, London, England. It houses Bank Melli Iran. The Kensington Vestry Hall was built by Thomas Corby in 1852. It was designed by architect James Broadbridge. Its construction was met with dismay by ratepayers, who complained about the outlandish railings. They were finally removed in 1880. From 1889 to 1960, the building housed the Kensington Central Library. It was dedicated by Princess Louise, Duchess of Argyll in November 1889. It has been listed as Grade II by English Heritage since April 15, 1969. By