St John the Evangelist Church, Wollombi facts for kids
Quick facts for kids St John the Evangelist Church |
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| St John the Evangelist Anglican Church | |
| St. John's Wollombi | |
St John's Wollombi, pictured in 2007
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 St John the Evangelist Church
Location in New South Wales
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| 32°56′15″S 151°08′26″E / 32.937603°S 151.140485°E | |
| Location | 2985 Paynes Crossing Road, Wollombi, City of Cessnock, New South Wales |
| Country | Australia |
| Denomination | Anglican Church of Australia |
| History | |
| Status | Church |
| Founded | July 1846 |
| Founder(s) | Most Rev. William Tyrrell |
| Consecrated | 15 February 1849 |
| Architecture | |
| Functional status | Active |
| Architect(s) | Edmund Blacket |
| Architectural type | Church |
| Style | Old Colonial Gothic Picturesque |
| Years built | 1846–1864 |
| Specifications | |
| Capacity | 160 worshipers |
| Materials | Hawkesbury sandstone |
| Administration | |
| Parish | Wollombi Valley |
| Diocese | Newcastle |
St John the Evangelist Church is a special old church in Wollombi, Australia. It's known for its history and beautiful design. Famous architect Edmund Blacket designed this Anglican church. It was built a long time ago, between 1846 and 1864. This church is listed as a heritage site, meaning it's an important part of history.
Contents
The Church's Story
In May 1845, people living in the area decided to build a new church. By 1846, they had chosen an architect and the government gave them land. They also asked for bids to supply stone and wood.
Who Designed the Church?
The church was designed by Edmund Blacket. He arrived in Australia in 1842. This church was one of his very first projects. The first stone of the church was laid in July 1846. The church was officially opened on February 15, 1849. This was done by Bishop William Tyrrell of Newcastle.
How the Church Grew
The main part of the church, called the nave, was made longer. It was extended by about 6 meters (20 feet) between 1862 and 1864. Edmund Blacket also designed and watched over these additions. An old photo from 1920 says the church was built in 1847. It also mentions the additions in 1864 and that it could seat 160 people.
What the Church Looks Like
St John the Evangelist Church is a simple, charming village church. It was built in a style called Old Colonial Gothic Picturesque. It has a rectangular shape with a porch that sticks out. There's also a small room for the priest (vestry) and the main altar area (chancel). These areas have tall, narrow windows.
Special Features
The roof has a pointed end called a gable. At one end of the gable, there's a small bell tower. At the other end, there's a stone cross. The church is made from local sandstone. This stone has a lovely golden color. The roof is made of iron and has a simple sloped shape. Inside, the church has beautiful cedar wood fittings and pews. You walk up to the church through a classic picket fence. There's also a nice wrought iron lantern at the entrance.
How Well is it Preserved?
The church is in great shape. It still looks very much like it did when it was first built. Even with changes like the longer nave and repairs, it's mostly original. It's considered to be very well preserved.
Changes Over Time
- 1864: The nave (main part of the church) was made longer.
Why This Church is Important
St John the Evangelist Church is a very special place. It's well-kept and looks beautiful in the valley.
Historical Importance
This church shows how important and hopeful people were in the past. It was built when Wollombi was growing. The town's future was connected to the Great North Road. This road was a major route back then. The church also shows the early work of architect Edmund Blacket in New South Wales.
Design and Beauty
The church is beautiful because of its design. It uses local stone and fits perfectly into the landscape. It shows great creative skill.
Community Value
This church has been important to its community for a long time. It has provided spiritual and social support since the 1840s. It reflects the hopes of the people who lived there.
Research Opportunities
The church is also important for learning more about history. It's an early work by Edmund Blacket. It also has a marker showing the level of a big flood in 1949. This flood marker has been used to help plan new buildings in the area.
What it Represents
The church is a good example of Edmund Blacket's early work. It also represents the local churches found in small towns in the early 1800s.
More to Explore
- Australian non-residential architectural styles
- List of Anglican churches in New South Wales
