Category St Peter’s

Jul 9 2013

1867: St Peter’s Anglican Church, Woolloomooloo, Sydney, New South Wales

The foundation stone of St Peter’s Anglican Church was laid on the 1st of May 1866[1] on the corner of Anne and Bourke streets at Woolloomooloo (now Darlinghurst) by the Governor Sir John Young (1807-1876) and was officially opened on the 25th of July 1867[2] by the Bishop of Sydney, Frederick Barker (1808-1882).

The great east window of St Peters is a 16ft high triple light window of Gothic design with the centre light taller than the outer two. The window was the gift of the ministers Church Warden and Treasurer of the building fund, James Gordon[3], to commemorate the installation of the first incumbent of the church, the Rev George Harman Moreton (1826-1902).

The window was made by the “Ferguson, Urie, and Lyon”[4] stained glass company of Melbourne for £182[5] and was placed on display at the company’s workshops in Curzon-street, North Melbourne. Between the 20th and 22nd of June 1867 the public were invited to view it until 4.p.m on the Saturday before it was to be shipped to Sydney[6].

St Peter’s was deconsecrated in 1993 and subsequently purchased by the Sydney Church of England Girls Grammar School (SCEGGS) and is now known as the “Great Hall” of the School at Darlinghurst.

Photos taken 6th May 2011.

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The window is described as follows:

The base of each window bears the following inscriptions:

“PRESENTED BY JAMES GORDON, ST PETERS DAY A.D. 1867”.

“TO BEAUTIFY THE HOUSE OF GOD AND TO COMMEMORATE THE”

“INSTALLATION OF THE REVd G. H. MORETON AS FIRST INCUMBENT OF THIS CHURCH”.

There are nine biblical scenes and three symbols depicted in the windows. Each of the nine figurative scenes has the text reference below it to a chapter and verse from the King James Bible.

Left light:

“John – 1:42” – “And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone.” This refers to Peter, also known as Simon Peter.

“Luke – 9:32” – “But Peter and they that were with him were heavy with sleep: and when they were awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him”.
The depiction is of the ‘Transfiguration’ which is one of five major milestones in the life of Jesus.

“Matw – 8:25” – “And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish.” The scene depicts the disciples pending shipwreck in the rough seas calling for the Lord to save them.

Centre Light:

The apex of the centre light window contains the Hexagram symbol, more commonly recognised as the Star of David.

“Matw – 26:36” – “Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder”. The scene depicted is commonly recognised as ‘The Agony in the Garden’.

“SALVATOR MUNDI.” –  (Meaning, “Saviour of the World”). This is the central image of the centre light and depicts Christ standing and wearing crimson robes. In his left hand is the “Globus Cruciger” (representing the world or earth) which is surmounted by a cross. His right hand depicts the early Byzantine hand gesture of the benediction or blessing.

“P X” – Below Christ is the stylized letters P & X which are the Greek for Christ.

“Mark – 14:22” – “And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake it, and gave to them, and said, Take, eat: this is my body.” The scene depicted is commonly recognised as “The Last Supper.”

“IHS” – Below the Last Supper Scene is the letters “IHS”, the 8th century abbreviation for “IHESUS,” the way Christ’s name was spelled in the Middle Ages.

Right light:

“Matw – 14:29” – “And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.” The image depicts Peter walking on the water towards Jesus who had sent the disciples to the Sea of Galilee, but their ship became caught in a storm. Jesus was seen walking upon the water and gave Peter the courage to walk upon the sea towards him.

“John – 19:26” – “When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son!” The scene depicted is the Crucifixion where Jesus is nailed to the cross and says to his mother, “Woman, behold your son.”

“John – 21:17” – “He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.” Christ is depicted as the Good Shepherd with his sheep and Peter is seen kneeling before him with his key.

Significant historical newspaper transcriptions:

The Argus, Melbourne, Thursday 20th June 1867, page 5.

“There is now in view at the stained glass manufactory of Messrs. Ferguson, Urie and Lyon, Curzon Street, North Melbourne, a memorial window for St. Peter’s Church, Woolloomooloo. The window has been presented by Mr. James Gordon, on the occasion of the installation of the first incumbent, and bears an inscription to that effect. It represents five episodes in the history of St. Peter, and is designed in the early English style of art, the execution of the figures and the harmony of colours reflecting great credit on the artist employed. The window is divided into three lights, and is 16ft by 7ft in size, the middle division containing a well executed figure of our Saviour, with the motto, “Salvatore mundi”. The public will be admitted until Saturday next.”

The Argus, Melbourne, Saturday 22nd June 1867, page 3.

“NOTICE – The STAINED GLASS CHANCEL WINDOW for St. Peter’s Church, Woolloomooloo, will be ON VIEW, at the premises of Ferguson, Urie and Lyon, Curzon-street, North Melbourne, from Wednesday, the 19th, until Saturday, the 22nd inst, at 4 p.m. All interested in stained glass and church decorations are invited to inspect it.”

Empire, Sydney, Friday 12th July 1867, page 4.

“CHANCEL WINDOW IN ST. PETER’S CHURCH, WOOLLOOMOOLOO – A beautiful stained window has just been erected over the chancel at the eastern end of St Peter’s Church, Ann-street, Wooloomooloo. This window is the gift of Mr. James Gordon. It is the workmanship of Messrs. Ferguson and Urie, glass stainers, Melbourne. The colouring is rich and the general effect striking. In the centre of the window is a large figure of the saviour, with the robes and insignia of royalty, and underneath the inscription “Salvator Mundi”. At the top is the agony in Gethsemane, and at the foot the Lord’s Supper. The other lights represent scenes in which St. Peter had part. On the left hand, at the top, is the calling of St. Peter and St. Andrew; and under it, the Transfiguration and the storm on the Lake of Gennesaret. On the right hand, at the top, is represented Christ walking on the water and rescuing St. Peter from the waves; below this is the Crucifixion, and then, under, the delivery of the keys to St. Peter. Along the foot of the window is the inscription:-“Presented by James Gordon, on St. Peter’s Day 1867, to beautify the House of God, and to commemorate the installation of the Rev. G. H. Moreton as first incumbent of this Church”.

The Sydney Morning Herald, NSW, Tuesday 6th August 1867, page 5.

“…Mr. JAMES GORDON, the minister’s churchwarden, then rose, as the treasurer of the building fund, to make a statement of the moneys received for and expended on the building…”

 “…the chancel window, which cost £182…”

The Sydney Morning Herald, NSW, Saturday 5th July 1902, page 9.

“THE LATE CANON MORETON”

Here passed away shortly before midnight on Thursday the venerable Canon George Harman Moreton, one of the early ministers of the Church of England in this State. The late Canon was born at Highway Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, in 1826, and his early history as a minister was one of indomitable perseverance and zeal. At the age of 17 Mr. Moreton announced to his guardian that he desired to enter the ministry. His intention was thwarted at every turn, and at last the youth left home and walked to London. He presented himself to the London City Mission, but his youth was considered a bar to his engagement. Young Moreton however, asked that he might be allowed to enter for the examinations, and after some time his request was granted. The youth passed the examinations with great credit, and was one of the youngest missionaries accepted. He received an appointment in the eastern mission field, and after his marriage went to Loo Choo, on the island of Lapa, Japan, in 1853. He laboured there three years, and was invalided home after a paralytic seizure. While at Japan, Mr. Moreton received new of British success in the Crimea from a Russian man-of-war. Mr. Moreton was ordained deacon at Trinity Church, Shanghai, by the first Bishop of Victoria, on October 9, 1853, and raised to the priesthood at the Chapel Royal, Whitehall, by Bishop Tait, of London, on December 20, 1857. He became curate of Pertenhall, Ely, in 1857, and in that year received an invitation from Bishop Barker to visit Australia. The long voyage of six months to Australia restored the young clergyman’s health, and Sydney was reached in 1858. Mr. Moreton preached in St. Philip’s Church the evening after he landed in Sydney, and was then appointed curate at St. James’ under Canon Allwood. This position he held till 1867 when he was asked by the late Mr. Charles Kemp to start a Church at Woolloomooloo. Mr. Moreton immediately set to work to found the Church of St. Peter’s, and in a short time the church, schools, and parsonage were built. In 1878 Mr. Moreton was elected a canon of St. Andrew’s Cathedral. The duties of the parish being rather heavy Canon Moreton left St. Peter’s in 1882, and went to St. Like’s, Burwood, which was then vacant. The debt on St. Luke’s was at that time 600, but in a little time this incubus was wiped out and a parsonage was built. With the aid of Miss Fadith [sic?] Walker a parish hall was built and an organ was placed in the church. During Canon Moreton’s incumbency at St. Luke’s two district churches connected with the parish were built. These were St Mary’s, Mortlake, and St. Peter’s Croydon, and they were erected free of debt. In 1897 Canon Moreton resigned his position at St. Luke’s, failing health having weakened his mental vigour. Canon Moreton was a ripe scholar, particularly in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin. On Thursday night the Canon succumbed to an apoplectic seizure at his residence, Holchester, Burwood-street, Burwood. He had been confined to his room for many months. To-day shortly after 1 o’clock a funeral service is to be conducted by the Rev. A. E. Bellingham at St. Luke’s, Burwood, after which the body will be conveyed to Rookwood by rail when the Rev. H. Bryant will conduct the burial service. Mrs. Moreton died in 1896. Mr. P. H. Moreton is the only son of the late canon.”

Related post: 13-08-1867: James Urie visits Tasmania on Ferguson and Urie business

Footnotes:

Jun 12 2013

1875: St Peter’s Anglican Church, Akaroa, New Zealand.

St Peter’s Anglican Church in Akaroa contains one of only seven rare examples of Ferguson & Urie stained glass found in New Zealand to date.

The window in St Peter’s was erected circa 1877 in the east sanctuary as a memorial to two young men, C. Allan Nalder a Solicitor, and Randal Sayle a district surveyor, who both drowned as a result of a boating accident when their yacht “Ripple” capsized in Tikau Bay on the 12th January 1875.

Photos taken 2nd October 2010 and kindly contributed by Errol Vincent, NZ.

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The first Anglican Church at Akaroa was built c.1852 in Church street to the designs of Samuel Charles Farr (1827-1918). Circa 1863, the Resident Magistrate at Akaroa, John Watson[1], donated the land for the new Church at Rue Balguerie, Akaroa, and builders Checkley, Bates and Newton began construction of St Peter’s in 1863. It was consecrated by the Bishop of Christchurch, Henry John Chitty Harper (1804-1893), on the 27th of November 1864[2].

In response to the need for more room, in 1876 architects Cane and Drewett (Thomas Cane 1830-1905 & John W. Drewett) presented the plans for the enlargement of the church, which included transepts and extended sanctuary, and on completion of these extensions, it was officially re-opened for services on St Mark’s day on the 25th April 1877[3].

In relation to the date the Ferguson & Urie window was erected, noted historian Dr. Fiona Ciaran records that the following was reported in the Lyttelton Times of 1875:

“…The LT records the studio and the arrival of the window [(6 April 1875, p2]…”[4]

In April 1877, two years after the arrival of the window, a statement of subscriptions and expenditure was published with mention of an amount paid to Ferguson & Urie:

Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Vol 1, Issue 78, 17th April 1877, page 3.

“ACCOUNT OF SUBSCRIPTIONS AND EXPENDITURE MEMORIAL WINDOW…”
“…Paid Ferguson and Urie…£46-3-1…”

Transcriptions of some significant source records:

Colonist [NZ], Volume 1861, issue 1861, 12 January 1875, page 3.

“Monday.

“Mr. Randall Sayle, late of Nelson, was drowned on Saturday afternoon, at Akaroa, during a trial trip of the yacht Ripple, which he had just purchased. Mr Nalder, junior, a lawyer, was also drowned. A squall struck the yacht, which sank in deep water”.

Star, [NZ] Issue 2133, 12 January 1875, page 2.

“THE FATAL ACCIDENT AT AKAROA”.

“The following is a detailed account of this sad accident, of which a brief telegraphic account was published yesterday.
As has been already stated, the yacht Ripple, which was built at Port Chalmers, was brought to Lyttelton to compete at the late regatta in the yacht race, which she won. Mr Sayle, who was at the regatta as captain of the Akaroa four-oar crew, taking a fancy to the yacht negotiated for and purchased her, got her unrigged and sent down to Akaroa by the Bruce on Jan. 7. The day following her arrival at Akaroa, Mr Sims, one of the survivors of the accident, commenced to re-rig her, and finished his work on the morning of the 9th. Mr Sayle was very anxious and excited to get the work done so that he could have a trial trip of his purchase, and, accordingly, in the afternoon, himself, Mr C. Allan Nalder, Mr A. Westenra of the bank of New Zealand, and Mr W. Sims started for a cruise. The yacht was narrowly watched at starting and for some time afterwards by different persons on shore as she appeared to some who understood those matters not so stiff under canvas as she had been represented to be. At starting, two reefs were taken in the mainsail, and, subsequently, another one, the jib being also replaced by a smaller sail. The wind at the time was from the north-east, blowing rather gustily and fresh on the Akaroa side of the bay; on the opposite side it appeared as if the wind was stronger. The first part of the cruise was run down the harbour past the buoy of Green’s point, then a tack was made to winward, when the yacht fetched near Tikau Bay, she was then again put about. Mr Sayle was at the tiller and holding the main-sheet in his hand, when Mr Sims, noticing that she was heeling over too much, called out to Mr Sayle to let go of the sheet. As this was not done, Mr Sims twice more made the same request, but Mr Sayle was as one paralysed, looking at the others, but apparently unable to do what was required of him. The vessel heeling over more, the ballast shifted, and the yacht immediately filled and went down at, about a mile from the shore, in some six fathoms of water. The four, who were all swimmers, having got clear of the vortex caused by the sinking vessel, at once struck out for the shore. Mr Westenra and Mr Nalder being near each other, and Mr Sims and Mr Sayle a little distance from them. As they swam, Mr Nalder addressed Mr Westenra more than once, and wished he could get his coat off, which Mr Westenra told him was impossible, but kept cheering him up with hopes of their reaching shore safely. Mr Westenra supposes they must have swam nearly half way to shore when he heard a call from his fellow swimmer. He turned round and found he was alone, Mr Nalder having sunk to rise no more. At this time the beach was not to be seen, but struggling on, Mr Westenra at last reached the shore, exhausted and almost insensible. In the meantime, Mr Sims had kept near Mr Sayle, and they had been swimming some time, when Mr Sims noticed his companion apparently losing strength, and faltering and saying that he was afraid he could not keep on. Mr Sims then swam behind him, and catching hold of the serge coat which Mr Sayle wore, held him up whilst still swimming toward the shore, until he found they were both sinking, and that unless he let go, they must both go down together. Thoroughly exhausted, but reluctantly, Mr Sims let go his hold, and shortly afterwards Mr Sayle must have sunk. At this time, Mr Sims knew nothing of the others. He had heard a cry which he thought came from Mr Nalder, but whether it was of encouragement or despair he could not tell. Resting a little, and getting himself free from his boots, he again commenced swimming towards shore, which he ultimately, with great difficulty reached, and there found Mr Westenra. After taking off and wringing their clothes, they started for the Maori pah, and when on the hill, they noticed that Mr Bridge’s yacht, the Scud, had started from Akaroa, and was making for the scene of the accident. The Maoris treated them very kindly and hospitably, making them tea, and wanting them to change their clothes, which both declined to do; the Natives volunteered also to take them to Akaroa in a dingy. A fire was then lit to draw attention of those on board the Scud, but, owing to the peculiar haziness of the atmosphere, it could not be seen. However, the Natives getting out their dingy, took them, and, succeeding in drawing attention, put them safely on board. Mr Nalder was well known throughout the province, but Mr Sayle was not so well known. Both gentlemen were single, and the latter held the appointment of district surveyor at Akaroa. The fatality occurred about five o’clock in the evening, and, when known, caused quite a consternation in Akaroa, both gentlemen being held in more than ordinary esteem and respect.”

Lyttelton Times [NZ], Volume XXII, issue 1325, 1 December 1864, page 4.

“CONSECRATION OF ST. PETER’S AKAROA

On Sunday morning, the 27th day of November, the Bishop of Christchurch was met at the usual hour for divine service by the minister, churchwardens, and some of the inhabitants of Akaroa after the form prescribed, when the Rev. William Aylmer, M.A., the incumbent, read the petition praying his Lordship to consecrate their building, to which petition, consent was given according to the prayer therein contained. The ceremony of consecration and the dedication immediately followed. The Bishop having received the instrument of conveyance, presented to him, by which we learnt that the area of ground upon which the church was erected had been the gift of Mr. John Watson, the Resident Magistrate at Akaroa, declared the same to be dedicated to the use of the Episcopal Church, and henceforth to be known by the style of St. Peter. Being the first Sunday in Advent the psalms and Lessons for that day were read instead of those usually chosen at a consecration in this diocese; the second Lesson, containing the narrative of the cleansing of the Temple by our Redeemer. His Lordship afterwards preached from Matthew ix. Chapter and 29th verse – “According to your faith, be it unto you.” His sermon was a plain, but forcible explanation of the nature and quality of a saving faith, remarkable for the earnest tone in which he strove to bring home the necessity of such a faith to his hearer’s apprehension while he dwelt strongly upon the privileges which they would henceforth enjoy in making public prayer and supplication unitedly to Him who had promised that wheresoever two or three were met together there to be present with them. After the conclusion of the sermon, the Holy Communion was administered. The choir had prepared a musical treat, and sang Jackson’s noble Te Deum in F – in a manner which, if it left anything open to regret, was only that so inspiring a composition should not be the rule instead of the exception. The chants and hymns chosen for the day, were also well sung – the congregation joining throughout, intelligibly bearing their part in the service. After evening service, the Bishop administered the rite of confirmation, and addressed in his happy, affectionate, and impressive manner, those upon whom he had laid his hands, exhorting them, and all those who had preceded them, to help one another to fight the good fight and never be ashamed of he glorious calling whereunto they had been called. If another regret again obtruded, it was only that his Lordship was not able to be a more frequent visitor to the district of Akaroa.”

Akaroa Mail &Banks Peninsula Advertiser [NZ], Vol VII, Issue 704, 13 April 1883, page 2

“OBITUARY NOTICE

On the authority of a letter received by the last mail from England, we hear from Mr. A. H. Westenra of the decease of Mr John Watson, for many years the Resident Magistrate of Akaroa, and for some years the only Stipendiary magistrate in all of what is now Canterbury. It appears almost like going back to pre-historic times to write of the deceased gentleman, and his connection with Akaroa and the public service of the Colony, more especially, too, as but few who are now among us had the opportunity of hearing from his own lips the reminiscences of his earlier Colonial career.
From what we remember and have heard of our deceased fellow-colonist and former kindly neighbour, we understand that he was born at Ballydarton, in the County of Carlow, Ireland, his father being John Watson, Esq., who was then considered the first and best master of foxhounds in the United Kingdom[5]. This love of sport and horsemanship has descended, the present master of the Melbourne pack, which position he has honourably held for many years, being a half brother[6] of the deceased; while every old Akaronian must well remember the late gentleman’s pride in horses, even to breaking them in, the last one, we believe, that he owned and broke here being a horse named by him Blarney.
Mr Watson, we believe, came to this colony in November or December, 1843, with Captain – afterwards Admiral – Fitzroy, but in what capacity we do not know. It is a matter of colonial history that he distinguished himself at Kororareka, in the Bay of Islands, at the contest with the then redoubtable chief Heki. Shortly after this he must have been sent to Akaroa, succeeding Mr C. B. Robinson, the first R.M. here. From that date until 1869 or ’70 Mr Watson was one of us, strict in his duties and straightforward in his intentions, Like other men, he had his official peculiarities, but for unostentatious kindness, in which his widow was always a ready and eager helper, and more than aid, his name was in those days proverbial. The site of St. Peter’s Church section was a present from the deceased gentleman, who always, while he was amongst us, took a deep interest in Church matters, and otherwise interested himself in the advancement of the town and district; in fact, his and Mrs Watson’s aid and advocacy, combined with the Rev. W. Aylmer’s efforts, resulted in the present Church being built. Many and very many of the “old identities” of this district will be very sorry to read of Mr’s Watson’s bereavement, and though she is far away will still sympathise with her as a friend, although out of sight, but not out of mind to them. Most of us know that although a non resident the deceased gentleman still held property among us, notably the residence or Mr H. C. Jacobson, and a freehold on the German Bay hill. To quote Mrs Hemans:-

“Leaves have their time to fall, And flowers wither at the North wind’s breath, And stars to set; but all Thou hast all seasons for thine own, O Death!”

Stained Glass windows of Canterbury, New Zealand, Ciaran, Fiona. Dunedin, N.Z.: University of Otago Press, 1998, p153.

“W370. E sanctuary, 3L, 2740mm x 1630mm.
The Risen Christ Blessing in Majesty.
Unsigned: [Ferguson, Urie, and Lyon, Melbourne].
Undated: 1875.
Commemoration: C. Allan Nalder and G.R.F. Sayle, drowned in Akaroa Harbour, 9 Jan 1875 [plaque]. Both worked in Akaroa, Nalder as a solicitor and Sayle as a surveyor [MDCB N3, S74].
Donor: Public subscription.
Documentation: The LT records the studio and the arrival of the window [(6 April 1875, p2]. NZCN reported that more money was needed for the window which would cost approximately £60 [5, no. 9 (July 1875), p.103]. At a vestry meeting on 29 Sept 1877, which he attended while on a visit to the parish, Bp Harper noted that this window had been installed without a faculty. A formal request for a faculty was to be made [VMB (unpaginated)], but there is no faculty entry in the BR.
Note: This window may have been obtained from this studio as a result of an advertisement first placed by Ferguson, Urie and Lyon in NZCN, 1, no 5 (Feb 1871), p.16.”

(Abbreviations: BR: Christ Church Anglican Bishop’s Register. NZCN: New Zealand Church News. MDCB: Macdonald Dictionary of New Zealand Biographies. LT: Lyttelton Times. VMB: Vestry Minute Book).

Footnotes:

[1] Akaroa Mail &Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Vol VII, Issue 704, 13 April 1883, page 2

[6] George John Watson (1829-1906)

Acknowledgements:

Thanks to Errol Vincent for contributing the photos and for his and Ann’s enthusiasm for the history.  Errol is a great great grandson of James Ferguson of the stained glass firm ‘Ferguson & Urie’.

Thanks to Dr. Fiona Ciaran for signing my copy of her book ;-), ‘Stained Glass windows of Canterbury, New Zealand,’ which has been an invaluable resource for this article.

Short link to this page: https://wp.me/p28nLD-1X8

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Dec 11 2012

05-08-1876: St Peters, Eastern Hill, Melbourne, Victoria.

The foundation stone of St Peter’s was laid by the Superintendent of the Port Phillip district, Charles Joseph La Trobe[1], on 18 June 1846[2], on the corner of Albert and Gisborne Streets on the eastern hill of Melbourne. The building was used for services as early as 1847, and was formally opened on the 6th August 1848[3].

The first stages of the church were designed by architect Charles Laing and the contractors were Ramsden & Brown (Samuel Ramsden – stone mason, and Charles & Henry Brown –bricklayers, contracted for a reported £820) [4]. In 1853-54 the Chancel & Transepts were added to the designs of Charles Vickers.

In June 1876, the chancel of St Peter’s was extended to the designs of architects Terry and Oakden, and the five figurative Ferguson & Urie windows were installed[5] at this time. An engraving showing the new chancel was published in the newspaper on the 5th August 1876[6] and it shows five single lancet figurative windows surrounding the chancel. The centre window of the five, depicting the “Ascension”, was moved to a small chapel in the south west corner of the church, possibly during further alterations in 1927-29[7]. Other single lancet windows in the nave are of Ferguson & Urie’s simple diamond quarry with stained glass borders.

Originally the chancel windows were installed (left to right) as, The Prophet Elias, St Peter, Christ & The Ascension, St Paul, and The Prophet Moses. The design and artwork of the Ascension window seems to be extremely at odds with that of the other flanking prophets and saints windows. Whether there has been been conservation on this window is not known but it’s design and artwork do not fit within the period equaling the other prophet and saint windows of the time.

Photos taken: 26th September 2010.

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The Melbourne Argus, Vic, Friday 19th June 1846, page 2.

“The foundation stone of the new English Episcopal Church on the Eastern Hill was laid yesterday, in due form by his Honor the Superintendent, in the presence of a large concourse of people assembled to witness the ceremonial. The arrangements were presided over by the Rev. A.C. Thomson, Minister of St. James’s Church, who conducted the services, aided by the Rev. Mr. Collins, of Geelong. The inscription on the plate was as follows:- “The Foundation Stone of St. Peter’s Church, In the Town of Melbourne, District of Port Phillip, Colony of New South Wales, Built by Local Subscriptions, Aided by an equal amount from the Colonial Government, Was laid by His Honor Charles Joseph La Trobe, Esquire, Superintendent of Port Phillip, On the 18th day of June, A.D. 1846, And in the Ninth Year of the Reign of Queen Victoria. Adam Compton Thomson, Minister of St. James’ Parish of Melbourne. James Simpson, James Denham Pinnock, Robert Williams Pohlman, Esquires, Trustees. Charles Laing, Architect”

The Australasian Sketcher with Pen and Pencil, Melbourne, Vic, Saturday 5th August 1876, page 70.

THE INTERIOR OF ST. PETER’S CHURCH, EASTERN-HILL: THE NEW CHANCEL.

The alterations and improvements which have lately been made to St. Peter’s Church (Church of England), Eastern-hill, consist of the extension and completion of the chancel, which now includes an additional space of 31ft. from the east wall of the church. On the north side of this, and communicating with it, a vestry has been built for the use of clergymen and choristers, and at the south side a chamber has been erected for the organ, which formerly stood near the western entrance. The organ has been reconstructed in its chamber by Mr. Fincham, the organ builder, of Bridge-road, and is hidden from the greater part of the congregation. The choir seats are placed within the new chancel. By means of the alterations thus effected a s space is gained which furnishes 80 additional sittings, and in course of time still further room will be made by filling in with seats that part of the western gallery which was formerly blocked by the top of he organ. The addition is a great improvement to the church internally, and will add much to the convenience of the congregation as well as to that of the choir and clergy. The cost of these alterations, which have been carried out on the plans and under the supervision of Messrs. Terry and Oakden, architects, amounts to £920, of which £750 is the expense of the new building; the balance is for removing the organ and furnishing the choir. The opening of he chancel was celebrated on June 29, St. Peter’s Day, and the thirtieth anniversary of the laying of the foundation of the church. Divine service was held, the musical portion of which was under the control of Mr. Summers, and was admirably given.”

May 14 2012

1864-67: St Peter’s Anglican Church, Ballarat, Victoria.

St Peters Anglican Church in Sturt Street Ballarat was designed by C. D. Cuthbert circa 1864.  The chancel was added in 1877 along with the stained glass windows in the chancel by Ferguson & Urie. The tower was added in 1891 and Soldiers memorial chapel in 1917.

Photos were taken 19th September 2010 & 17th March 2011

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Church of England Messenger, 9th August 1877, page 14.

“The stained-glass window for the chancel of St. Peter’s Church has arrived in Ballaarat, and was placed in position. It is a very good specimen of Messrs. Ferguson and Urie’s art, and it is a matter of congratulation that such excellent workmanship can be produced in the colony. The window is divided into three lights, surmounted by tracery pierced with trefoils. These trefoils are filled with richly-coloured glass, bearing upon a starry background the three emblems of faith, hope, and charity; the heart with the sacred monogram, the cross with the crown of thorns, the anchor with the dove and olive branch. The subject of the central light is the “Ecce Homo.” The side lights, having reference to the pious and charitable lives of the ladies in whose memory the chancel was erected. are illustrations of Mark XIV, 8 (“She hath done what she could’) and Matthew XXV. 40 (“Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me”). In the central light the Saviour stands forth a solemn and mournful figure. Pilate and a Roman soldier occupying the background. Underneath there is a panel with a small but exceedingly well-drawn picture of Christ’s charge to Peter – “Feed my Sheep.” In the apex of the window is the emblem of the Holy Spirit, the dove, descending with rays of light. The right hand picture of Mary wiping the Saviour’s feet with her hair is remarkable for the beauty of the Saviour’s countenance and the grace of His gesture. In the light upon the left-hand side a female figure is casting a garment around an aged man and a child at her feet. The background of both of these pictures is of a similar character – a low wall decorated with scroll-work, overtopped with trees and flowers, the sky space being filled in with ruby glass in irregular lead-work. Underneath are the old church emblems – the Agnus Dei and the Pelican; and above are the Alpha and Omega. The side window, which can be seen only upon entering the chancel, is the more special memorial window, having the upper part a scroll with the text – “Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord;” and at the bottom, a panel with the memorial inscription. The quarries of which the rest of the window is composed are ornamented with fleurs-de-lys, and the effect of the whole is highly satisfactory. The organ has been inspected on behalf of the church authorities, and is pronounced a first-class instrument. No time will now be lost in erecting it in the church.”

The Chancel window:

This is the main three light chancel window that depicts scenes from: MATT 25-40, JOHN 19-5 and MARK 14-8. The tracery above the three main lights shows three trefoil windows depicting the symbolism of Faith, Hope and Charity. The main lights of the window depict the following:

MATT 25-40: The King James version of Matthew 25-40 reads: “And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”  The figure depicted in the window is of a woman covering a beggar man and his daughter with a cloak to shield them from the cold. The most commonly recognised interpretation of Matthew 25-40 would be the old “Golden Rule”; “Do unto others as you would have them do to you” or “One should treat others as one would like others to treat oneself.” Below the scene is the Pelican feeding its young from blood from its chest, which represents sacrifice.

JOHN 19-5: The King James version of John 19-5 reads: “Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man!” The scene depicted in the window is of Jesus wearing the crown of thorns. His hands are bound, he’s wearing the purple robe, and he is flanked by Roman guards. In the hours before Christs crucifixion, he was led through what we would call a ‘kangaroo court’ which has no sense of justice. The Roman Governor, Pontius Pilate, had him whipped and had a crown of thorns placed upon his head and clothed him in a purple robe, mocking some sort of regal adoration. Pilate paraded Jesus before the crowd and exclaimed, “Behold, the man!” Below is the scene of Christ as the Good Shepherd with a ribbon of text which reads: “PETER LOVEST THOU ME, YE LORD THOU KNOWEST THAT I LOVE THE, FEED MY SHEEP.” This refers to John 21-17; “He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.”

MARK 14-8: The King James version reads: “She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying.” The scene in the window depicts Mary Magdalene, the alleged prostitute, drying Christs feet with her hair. Nearby is a small ornate jug which is supposed to have contained an expensive aromatic ointment which was to be used to ‘anoint” him before his death. Below is the image of the Paschal Lamb carrying the St George banner.

The two light window in the nave:

The ‘John Laverick Nunn’ Memorial window is a two light window with the memorial text:

“PLACED BY ELIZA NUNN IN MEMORY OF HER HUSBAND JOHN LAVERICK NUNN DIED 1875 AGED 46. | ALSO HER DAUGHTER HANNAH MARY DIED 1883 AGED 23 AND HER SON JOHN LAVERICK DIED 1884 AGED 22”.

This window was erected in St Peters in January 1886.

The scroll text on the left lancets reads:

“THE LORD GAVE AND THE LORD HATH TAKEN AWAY BLESSED BE THE NAME OF THE LORD” (Job 1:21 – “And said, Naked came I out of my mothers womb, and naked shall I returne thither: the Lord gaue, and the Lord hath taken away, blessed be the Name of the Lord.”) “THEN ALSO WHICH SLEEP IN JESUS WILL GOD BRING WITH HIM”. (1 Thessalonians 4:14 – “For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him”.) John Laverick Nunn was born in Whitby, Yorkshire, England, in 1830. He married Eliza Newson in Victoria in 1857 and they settled in the Warrenheip area at Dunnstown, near Ballarat circa 1860 where they became store keepers. John contributed to the Buninyong Presbyterian Church building appeal.  He died on the 22nd of Feb 1875 at Dunnstown. His wife Eliza died on the 17th October 1899 at “Ebor” Hawkesburn, South Yarra.

Short link to this page: http://wp.me/p28nLD-Uv

Some of this article has now been superseded by some new research about the chancel windows and a new article was posted to this web site on 24 Sep 2016 and can be seen at: http://wp.me/p28nLD-2Mv

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Apr 22 2012

24-06-1879: St Peter’s Church of England, Hamilton, Tasmania.

The three light chancel window at St Peter’s Church of England at Hamilton in Tasmania was created by the Ferguson & Urie stained glass company of North Melbourne circa 1880 and is a memorial to Ann Jane Wright (c.1835-1879). The original sketches for this window were done by Ferguson & Uries senior glass painter David Relph Drape and are held in the State Library of Victoria’s manuscripts collection. Photos of Drapes sketches and the window are included in the slideshow of images below.

St Peters is one of the oldest existing churches in Australia and even pre-dates the founding of Melbourne in Victoria. The church was designed by Edward Winch, Chief Clerk of the Colonial Architect’s Department, with some modifications by architect John Lee Archer (1791-1852). The cost was stated at £700 minus the tower and the first committee for the construction of the church was appointed with Mr.D.Burn as Secretary. The Government agreed to pay half the cost of the church and construction began in 1834 with J.J.Turnbull as builder. Apparently the walls had to be rebuilt in 1835, just after the laying of the foundation stone by Lieut. Governor Arthur in June, 1834 and the new builder contracted to complete it was W. Sibley. The church was consecrated on May 8th, 1838, by the first and only Bishop of Australia, the Rev Dr. W. G. Broughton, who also consecrated the burial ground. The first confirmation service was held on the same day at 10:30.

Photos were taken 7th October 2010.

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The Reverend George Wright arrived in Van Diemen’s Land on the ‘Fortune’ on the 21st March 1838, and became the third incumbent of St Peter’s circa 1844. He remained there for 30 years until failing eyesight forced him to retire from active work in 1875, but he still took an active role in many ceremonies alongside the new incumbent, the Rev Charles Andrews, from 1875 until mid 1878. The Rev George Wright’s wife, Anne Jane, died on the 24th of July 1879 and a minor reference to the triple light east window was mentioned in the Mercury in 1934, “The east window is a handsome “In memoriam” window erected by the parishioners and friends in memory of the wife of the Rev. Geo. Wright”. The memorial text on the window states:

“IN MEMORIAM | ANN JANE WRIGHT | DIED JULY 24th 1879”.

The three scenes depicted in the windows with accompanying chapter and verse are are:

MARK 10-14: (Suffer Little Children to come unto me).
LUKE 22-6: (Judas betrays Jesus).
MATT 26-7:  (The woman with the Alabaster box of precious ointment).

The Rev George Wright died on the 23rd of August 1893 and he and his wife Anne are buried in St Peter’s graveyard which surrounds the church.

An original sketch of this  windows design, by Ferguson & Urie’s senior stained glass artist, David Relph Drape, was found in the manuscripts collection at the State Library of Victoria. The style and colours are very typical of Ferguson & Urie’s work from the mid 1870’s to 1880’s. The glass painting also exhibits some signs of degradation of the brown medium used in facial features on the glass which at that time was a typical failing seen in other similar examples of Ferguson & Urie work of the same period. A copy of the original sketch and the window are depicted in the slideshow of photos.

The Mercury, Hobart, Monday 14th June 1937, page 9.

“ST. PETER’S, HAMILTON. Established 100 Years”.

“The 100th anniversary occurs this month of the completion of St. Peter’s Church of England, Hamilton, one of the oldest country churches in Tasmania. According to available records, it was reported in August, 1836, that the church would be completed in two months. This must have referred to the stonework, for a later report stated that the church was completed and inspected in June, 1837, a bill for the interior fittings having been dated June 14. In 1831 a movement was inaugurated with a view to the erection of an Anglican Church at Hamilton. The prime movers appear to have been Messrs. W. A. Bethune, of Dunrobin, William Roadnight, of Hamilton, David Burn, of Rotherwood, and Thomas Marzetti, of Cawood. A building committee was appointed, and in 1833 this included Messrs. W. S. Sharland, and Edward Lord jun., of Lawrenny, and other well-known pioneers. The foundation stone of the building was placed in position on June 26, 1834, by the then Lieutenant-Governor of Tasmania (Col. George Arthur), and the church was completed in 1837. The first rector was the Rev. M. J. Mayers, who came out from England with the first Archdeacon, the Venerable William Hutchins, in the Fairlie, which arrived at Hobart on January 6, 1837. Another passenger on the ship was Sir John Franklin, the new Lieutenant-Governor of Tasmania. St Peter’s Church was consecrated on May 8, 1838, by the Rt. Rev. Dr. W. G. Broughton, the first Bishop of Australia.

The Mercury, Hobart, Tasmania, Friday 29th June 1934, page 6.

“[…] The east window is a handsome “In memoriam” window erected by the parishioners and friends in memory of the wife of the Rev. Geo. Wright […]

The Mercury, Hobart, Tasmania, Wednesday 31st March 1875, page 2.

[In reference to Bishop Davies address to the Synod]:

“… I have ordained deacon, Mr. C. Andrew, who had previously worked in that diocese as a lay reader. He has undertaken the temporary charge of Hamilton, in order to relieve the Rev. George Wright, who, after many years of valuable service, has been compelled, I regret to say, through a physical infirmity, to abandon his duties for a season entirely…”

The Mercury, Hobart, Tasmania, Saturday 26th July 1879, page 1.

“WRIGHT- On July 24, at Hamilton, in her 44th year, Anne Jane, wife of Rev. George Wright, for thirty years incumbent of the parish. Friends are informed that the burial will take place on MONDAY NEXT, at 2 o’clock p.m.”

Launceston Examiner, Tasmania, Thursday 24th August 1893.

“DEATH OF THE REV. GEORGE WRIGHT. (BY TELEGRAPH)

WESTBURY, Wednesday, The Rev. George Wright, colonial chaplain, and former incumbent of Hamilton for many years, a very old and highly esteemed and Christian minister of the Anglican Church, passed away peacefully at his lodgings, Westbury, about midnight last night. His remains will be removed to Hamilton for interment, where he laboured so long in the service of his Master.”

External links:

Biography: Archer, John Lee (1791–1852)

The history of St. Peter’s Church, Hamilton, Tas., 1834 to 1934. by William George Brown.

Feb 24 2012

1869: St Peter’s Pebble Church, Carapooee, Victoria.

St Peter’s Anglican Church Carapooee.

St Peter’s Church at Carapooee, known as the “Pebble Church”, is about thirteen kilometers south of St Arnaud in western Victoria.

Originally the area was called ‘St Peter’s Diggings’ but known by the local Aborigines as ‘The Carapooee’, (“an earthly paradise”). The church was designed by architect Leonard Terry and Mr. Valentine Nott Mogg of ‘Swanwater Station’ laid its foundation stone in May 1869. The church is constructed of white quartz pebbles in varying sizes which are set in pinkish colored mortar. The pebbles were collected by locals from miners’ claims in the nearby hills. Valentine Mogg’s ‘Swanwater Station’ was also constructed of quartz pebbles in the same manner but there is supposedly no other church in Victoria constructed this like this.

The first service was held in St Peter’s in July 1870 with a formal opening taking place in October 1874.

The simple stained glass windows are of plain diamond quarries with red and blue stained glass borders and were supplied by the Colonial Victorian Stained Glass firm Ferguson & Urie of Melbourne.

Photos taken 11th June 2011.

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The last service and deconsecration of the Carapooee “Pebble Church” occurred on the 2nd of June 2019.

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