St George's Church, Oakdale facts for kids
Quick facts for kids St George's Church |
|
|---|---|
St George's Church
|
|
| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Church of England |
| Year consecrated | 1960 |
| Location | |
| Location | Oakdale, Poole, Dorset, England |
| Architecture | |
| Architect(s) | Robert Potter Richard Hare |
| Architectural type | Church |
St George's Church is a Church of England church located in Oakdale. Oakdale is a part of Poole, a town in Dorset, England. This church was built between 1959 and 1960. Since 1998, it has been recognized as a Grade II Listed building. This means it is an important historical building.
Contents
The Story of St George's Church
Why a New Church Was Needed
The first church built specifically for the people of Oakdale was finished in 1932. Today, that original building is used as the Oakdale Library. As more and more people moved to Oakdale, the area grew quickly. In 1938, Oakdale became its own parish, which is a church district. This meant a much larger church was needed for everyone.
Getting Ready to Build
Plans for a new church started early, in 1939. A generous gift of £2,000 was left by Miss Gaskell. Also, Mr. R. Aireton donated a large piece of land for the church. This land was located on Darby's Lane.
In 1947, a local newspaper, the Western Gazette, reported on the situation. It said that Oakdale "urgently needed" a new church. The original St George's was always too crowded. By the 1950s, enough money had been collected to build the replacement church.
Building the Church
The designs for the new St George's Church were created by two architects. Their names were Robert Potter and Richard Hare. The first stone, called the foundation stone, was laid on April 25, 1959. This special event was led by Maurice Key, who was the Bishop of Sherborne. The church was finished in 1960 and officially opened in July of that year.
How St George's Church Looks
Building Materials and Shape
St George's Church is built using red bricks. Its roof is covered with copper sheeting, which gives it a unique look. The building has a cruciform plan. This means it is shaped like a cross when you look at it from above. It has short parts sticking out on the sides, called transepts. There is also a tower located at the west end of the church.
Similar Churches and Special Style
St George's Church looks similar to another church. This is the Church of the Ascension in Crownhill, Plymouth. That church was also designed by Robert Potter and Richard Hare and opened in 1958.
Historic England, an organization that protects historical places, has described St George's. They call it a "beautifully detailed and crafted church." They also note that its design shows influences from Ninian Comper. He was a famous church architect. The church also reflects ideas from the Liturgical Movement. This movement focused on making church services more meaningful and involved for people.
