Category Victoria

Apr 3 2013

1872: Christ Church Anglican, Birregurra, Victoria.

The Ferguson & Urie stained glass window in the chancel of Christ Church, Birregurra, was erected to the memory of the colonial pioneer John Davenport Bromfield who died on the 20th of May 1870 aged 52.[1]

Photos taken 28th December 2010.

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Geelong Advertiser, Vic, Friday 3rd January 1873, page 2.

“The village of Birregurra is prettily situated, on rising ground, on the banks of the river Barwon, at the termination of Ripple Vale, and can boast of a commodious two story parsonage built of brick, and a handsome stone church which has been erected at a cost amounting to some 2,500. The church was further embellished on Christmas Eve by the addition of a handsome memorial window of stained glass. In the centre compartment is the representation of our Saviour ascending on the clouds of glory. On the right hand is the figure of St. John, and on the left that of St. Peter. In the centre trefoil is the triangle an dove, emblematicical of the Trinity; on one side is the Pelican and on the other the Agnus Dei. The colors are rich and the general appearance is pleasing. At the bottom, in old English letters, is the following inscription:- “To the Glory of God.” “To the memory of John Davenport Bromfield, died 20th May, 1870; erected by his widow.” The chancel is laid with encaustic tiles in a handsome pattern.”

The historic township of Birregurra lies approximately 135km west of Melbourne. In 1837 the Englishman John Davenport Bromfield arrived in the colony and took up land west of Geelong.

“…It may be interesting to note that Mr. Bromfield pitched his first camp in the district in 1837, on the present site of the Anglican Church, Birregurra, which church he had the distinguished honor of laying the foundation stone thereof (April 6th, 1870), thirty years prior to which event he had conducted shearing operations within a few yards of said building…”[2]

In August 1838 Bromfield was granted a licence to “depasture” stock in the South-western Geelong region[3] in the area originally known as “Bowden’s Point” and later as known as “Birregurra on the Barwon”. In 1839 the Wesleyan Missionary Society established the Aboriginal “Buntingdale Mission” in the area which caused much resentment between warring tribes. Bromfield’s station was within a short distance of the mission and he made a detailed account of one of the savage conflicts between the Barabool Hill and Mount Rouse tribes, the deadly results of which he described in June 1942 as; “such a disgusting scene can scarcely be imagined”[4]

Geelong Advertiser, Vic, Monday 13th June 1842, page 2.

“A FIGHT BETWEEN THE BLACKS.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE GEELONG ADVERTISER.
Ion Court, Geelong, June 4, 1842.

SIR.- I have to state to you the particulars of an affray which took place last Tuesday night, the 31st instant, the particulars of which are as follow:- “On the evening above-mentioned, two parties of aborigines encountered each other within a mile and  half of my station, part of the Barrabool Hill natives and part of the Mount Rouse tribe, which immediately gave battle, but were defeated with the loss of three men and two unfortunate young females. On the Wednesday morning the few natives immediately belonging to my neighbourhood arrived bearing this intelligence, evidently in a great state of excitement, and dreadfully afraid to return to their encampment without the protection of myself and servants, who were to be well armed. Directly after breakfast, I started, accompanied by the natives to within a short distance of their huts, where they all remained, and I proceeded forward myself, and on reaching the spot found their report to be perfectly correct. Such a disgusting scene can scarcely be imagined, the whole encampment deluged with blood, first lay the body of a middle aged man named Codjajah, speared through the breast in many places, his bowels taken off them, and a few pieces cut out of his thigh. The next was that of a woman speared in many places, quite dead. A short distance from her stood a young lubra with two spears through the belly, the whole of her intestines hanging to the ground – she was perfectly sensible – it would have been a charity to have shot her then, but she departed this life in the evening. Besides these three, within a short distance of the huts lay the bodies of two more men, known by the names of Jim and Big-one Tom, they were partly eaten, the fat being taken by their Christian brethren. These are the civilised aborigines who have been well instructed by our assistant protectors, and certainly have profited no little by the time and expense that have been lavished upon them. Such are the particulars of this affair, by the insertion of which, you will much oblige,

Your’s &c.,
JOHN DAVENPORT BROMFIELD”.

Although the Wesleyan Missionaries held the belief that their concept for aboriginal protectionism was a success, white man’s diseases became more devastating than the effects of their own tribal conflicts and the Buntingdale Mission eventually failed. By late 1847 there were calls for the resignation[5] of the missionary Francis Tuckfield and by 1850 the site had been abandoned altogether.

John Davenport Bromfield remained in the Birregurra area and in 1860 he was appointed as a Territorial Magistrate for the Colac district[6] as well as a trustee of the Colac Cemetery[7]. In January 1864 he was appointed as a Returning Officer for the district of Polwarth & South Grenville[8], but resigned the position in January 1870[9].

In 1865 he built his (now Heritage listed) home “Elliminook” at Birregurra.

In 1867 he was appointed as one of the “trustees of the land set apart on the 12th of November, 1866, for Church of England purposes, at Birregurra“[10]. In January 1869 he was appointed as a magistrate for the general session’s district of Geelong[11].

On the 6th of April 1870 John Davenport Bromfield laid the foundation stone of Christ Church at Birregurra[12], which would only a short time later contain his lasting memorial stained glass window created by the Ferguson & Urie stained glass company of Melbourne.

Illustrated Australian News for Home readers, Vic, Saturday 16th April 1870, page 84.

“CHRIST CHURCH BIRREGURRA

This pretty church will be built substantially of bluestone in the decorated style, the windows having freestone tracery and mullions. The foundation-stone will be laid in a few days. The church will consist of a nave forty-seven feet long by twenty-four broad. The chancel will be sixteen feet square. The tower will be fifteen feet square, and the height will be fifty-seven feet to the parapet. The size of the vestry is twelve feet by ten. The contract has been taken by Messrs. Trovana and Gubly, of Geelong, at £1998, without fittings. Mr. Terry, of Melbourne, is the architect”.

Less than a month and a half later, on the 20th May 1870, John Davenport Bromfield died from an aneurism aged 52[13].

The Argus, Melbourne, Vic, Wednesday 25th May 1870, page 4.

“BROMFIELD.- On the 20th inst., at Birregurra, near Colac, from aneurism of the aorta, after a lingering illness, John Davenport Bromfield, aged 52; arrived in the colony 1837; eldest son of the late John Davenport Bromfield, formerly of Pershore, Worcestershire, England.”

Christ Church was opened just over seven months later on the 5th of February 1871 at a total cost of £3000[14]. The first incumbent of the Church was the Rev. Thomas Sabine.

The Argus, Melbourne, Vic, Monday 27th February, 1871, page 7.

“One of the finest buildings in the Western District,” says the Geelong Advertiser, “has recently been erected at Birregurra; this is the new Church of England, which was completed about a fortnight ago. The church is constructed of bluestone, ornamented profusely with freestone from Pettavel. The sides of the windows and doors are lined with this material, which offers a beautiful contrast to the darker shades of the building. Situated to the west of the township, on a rise above the Barwon, it presents and imposing appearance. The interior is capacious, and well finished, and the total cost £3000. It was opened on the 5th instant, the services being conducted by the Bishop of Melbourne. There was a large assemblage, no less 1000 persons being computed to be present on the occasion.”

(The tower and spire of Christ Church were added in 1890 and the “Buntingdale” Aboriginal Mission bell is still located in the Church)

After John Davenport Bromfield’s death, his widow Eliza commissioned the Melbourne stained glass firm “Ferguson & Urie” to create the chancel window of Christ Church in his memory.

The three light window depicts the Ascension of Christ in the centre light with St Peter in the left light holding an open book in his left hand and the Key in his right. St John appears in the right light holding the poisoned chalice containing a serpent and a book in his right hand, his alter ego, the Eagle appears at his feet. The memorial inscription at the base of the windows reads:

“TO THE GLORY OF GOD

IN MEMORY OF JOHN DAVENPORT BROMFIELD DIED 2OTH MAY 1870

ERECTED BY HIS WIDOW”

Three years after Bromfield’s death, his widow Eliza married William Edmundson at St John’s Church in Colac, on the 8th of January 1873[15].

The Argus, Melbourne, Vic, Friday 10th January 1873. page 4.

“EDMUNDSON-BROMFIELD.- On the 8th inst., at St. John’s Church, Colac, by the Rev. Thos. Sabine, William Edmundson, of Birregurra, to Lizzie, relict of the late John Davenport Bromfield, of Colac.”

Interestingly, William Edmundson’s name appears in John Davenport Bromfield’s Probate documents as signatory to the documents. Undoubtedly Edmundson, who was wealthy and well known in his own right, was also well known to Bromfield!

The Colac Herald, Vic, Tuesday 3rd September 1889, page 2.

“A contract (writes the local correspondent of the Geelong Advertiser) has been let for the completion of the steeple of Christ Church at Birregurra, and the whole of the work will, it is expected, be carried out by the end of November. The steeple is being erected as a memorial to the late Mrs. J. F. Strachan. Mr. Laird, one of the partners of the contracting firm, visited the township a few days ago for the purpose of making preliminary arrangements in connection with the work. The architects are Messrs. Reid, Henderson and Co., of Melbourne. The building of a Sunday-school, to be erected by Mrs. Edmundson, of “Eliminook,” in memory of her late husband, will also shortly be commenced. On the completion of the school, Christ Church will well deserve the compliment paid to it by Bishop Moorhouse, when he designated it “the prettiest and most compact country Church of England in the colony.”

Camperdown Chronicle, Vic, Thursday 29th April 1920, page 4.

“BIRREGURRA.

“The past week has been an important and memorable one for the Anglicans of Birregurra. The foundation stone of the fine stone church, with its Norman tower and spire, was laid in April, 1870, and the parishioners have been celebrating the jubilee…”

“…The vicar who opened the church, Rev. Thos. Sabine, died thirty years ago, but the people are very thankful to have had every other of their pastors with them in their jubilee each occasion the service was conducted by the present vicar, Rev. G. D. Frewin.” 

The Argus, Melbourne, Vic, Wednesday 3rd June 1931, page 12.

“BIRREGURRA.- Christ Church of England celebrated its diamond jubilee on Sunday. The Bishop of Ballarat (Dr. Crick) was the preacher.”

Footnotes:

Mar 6 2013

1881: Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Bacchus Marsh, Victoria.

Holy Trinity Church at Bacchus Marsh contains a number of historical stained glass windows created by Ferguson & Urie dating from 1881. These windows represent memorials to pioneers of the district such as Captain William Henry Bacchus and members of the Bacchus family, and the Grant, Greene, Dalton, Wood, and Staughton families.

Photos taken 30th December 2010.

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As early as 1851 a pre-fabricated iron church imported from England, known as an “Iron Pot,” had been erected for the Anglican’s of Bacchus Marsh on land donated by the districts founding pioneer, Captain William Henry Bacchus.

The old iron church “… began to fall into the ‘sere and yellow leaf’ stage of existence…”[1] and on the 27th December 1867 a violent dust storm blew down the steeple [2] which triggered serious discussions to erect a more substantial church.

In 1869 Bishop Perry laid the foundation stone[3] for the new church but it was incorrectly laid on ground set aside for the parsonage. This, in conjunction with the formation of the new Ballarat Diocese and re-distribution of funds, caused a delay in building for a further seven years[4].

Tenders for the erection of the current church were received by architects Taylor & Wyatt in March 1876[5]. The old foundation stone, previously laid in 1869, was removed but it was found that:

“… the bottle containing the documents and coins was found to have a hole in it, and the documents were a good deal decayed in consequence…”

On the afternoon of the 20th of May 1876 Bishop Thorton re-laid[6] the foundation stone a few yards north of the original position and building commenced at the hands of the contractor Jonathon Coulson[7] of Ballarat. On the 5th of June 1877 Rev Moorehouse officially opened[8] the church free from debt thanks to additional donations by Molesworth Greene, Stephen and Samuel Staughton and W. J. Clarke.

In early 1881 a very descriptive article about Holy Trinity’s stained glass windows was published in the Bacchus Marsh Express:

The Bacchus Marsh Express, Vic, Saturday 26th March 1881, page 2.

(Note: Some words in the original article were unreadable and are shown as [??])

“Some handsome stained glass windows have been fixed in Trinity Church, Bacchus Marsh, and much improve the appearance of the interior of the church, which will, when the whole of the windows are filled in, be quite a model of [??] and elegance, both outside and inside. There is a two-light window at the western end of the church above the chief entrance, with the three [??] round windows above them, are the gift of Mr. Samuel Thomas Staughton, and are in memory of his father, the late Mr. Simon Staughton. The windows are each about 8 feet long by 1 foot wide and figures represented upon them are the Saviour and St. John, with appropriate accessories and tracery. The colours and designing will be the closest artistic criticism, and the whole reflect much credit upon Messrs. Ferguson & Urie, of Melbourne, who have executed them, as well as most of the other windows, and it is worth mentioning that Bacchus Marsh native Mr. A. Murdoch, has executed nearly the whole of the work, the only parts he has not done being the actual painting of the designs, but the fitting up, placing of the glass and lead work has been done by him, as well as the fixing of the windows. The three small windows above the two large ones contain representations of the Dove, His (Trinity) and Agnes Dei. The windows along the northern wall are eight in number, and represent six of the Apostles, namely Sts. Peter, Paul, Andrew, James, Philip and John, with two grisaille or decorated windows flanking them at each end of the church. These two latter are placed there by Mr. W. Grant, lately of Hopetoun, Bacchus Marsh, in memory of his brothers Dr. John Grant and Henry George Grant, who are buried in the church yard surrounding the church. The windows containing the figures the figures of Sts. Peter and Paul are supplied by Mr. George Wood in memory of deceased relatives, and the next two windows, containing representations of Sts. Andrew and James are the gift of Mrs. George Wood, and bear, as do the others, an in memoriam inscription of names of her relatives. The figures upon the next windows are those of St. Philip and St. John, and are in memory of deceased children of Mr. and Mrs. Molesworth Greene, who have erected these windows. Passing into the chancel, at the back of the choir seats two windows imported from England have been placed by the relatives of the late Mrs. Catherine McLeod, formerly of Tallisker, Scotland, who is buried in the adjacent church yard, and was a highly respected resident of the district and member of the congregation at the time of her death, in 1863. These windows bear various scriptural emblems, and the inscriptions – “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord,” and “I was a stranger and ye took me in.” Three quatrefoil windows in the apse which forms the eastern end of the chancel bear scroll which surrounding the letters IHS in the centre, with Alpha and Omega at the two sides. The other windows on the southern side of the church remain in plain glass. Since this church was opened the tablets bearing the Ten Commandments, The Lord’s Prayer, and the Belief have been fixed to the walls of the chancel, and add the necessary completeness in this respect to the interior of the church. Around the chancel arch the inscription has been placed – “The Lord is in His Holy Temple, let the earth keep silence before Him.” The whole of the windows display most accurate drawing and harmonious blending of colours, and their own width rendered the task of duly proportioning the figures a matter requiring more than ordinary skill. Both the donors of the windows and the members of the congregation have every reason to be completely satisfied with the artistic and mechanical skill displayed by Messrs. Ferguson & Urie and their workmen in these windows…”

On the 20th April 1881 Holy Trinity was consecrated by Rev Dr Moorehouse in the presence of a large congregation[9].

In September 1897 it was reported that four panes of stained glass windows were damaged by vandalism. It’s not known who may have done the repairs to the windows.

The Bacchus marsh Express, Vic, Saturday 11th September 1897, page 2.

“Wanton and serious damage has been done lately by stone-throwing to the windows of Holy-Trinity Church. Four panes have been broken and cracked in the south porch, and one of the handsome stained glass memorial windows on the north side has been broken and splintered in 10 pieces…”

A quarter of a century later a reporter under the name of ‘Christopher Crisp’ pens an unflattering article about the architecture and the stained glass windows of Holy Trinity.

The Bacchus Marsh Express, Vic, Saturday 24th February 1906, page 1.

HOLY TRINITY CHURCH, BACCHUS MARSH.
(BY CHRISTOPHER CRISP)

THIS church needs a gift of 1,000 for present improvements, and an endowment of 2,000 to provide a fund to keep it in repair.

            The architect, like all his tribe, thought only of architectural features and altogether forgot ventilation and escape exits. Not a window will open, and there is no “perflation,” but only a few apertures in the side walls, above some of the windows, to admit fresh air. There are only two narrow door exits. Our plan would be to make the upper halves of the least ornamented of the side windows double sashed ventilators, after the modern method. The side wall between the chancel and the vestry should be arched, and the two windows in the vestry porch should be made into a doorway, for ventilation, and escape purposes.

            Repairs are also required now, chiefly to the fencing and drainage, and the bell tower should be raised and strengthened, as the bell (one of the best in Victoria) cannot be properly rung because of those two weaknesses. An imprimis requirement is a better lectern. The one at present in use is worth about 2.6, and is tottering. Yet it has to hold a Bible!

Some Londoners never visit the British Museum, and we must confess that we were not aware that this church contains a good two light stained glass memorial window to the late Simon Staughton. It is high up in the gable above the entrance porch and the wording is small and badly painted in old English letters. The only good piece of work of that kind (and there is a lot of it) in the church, is that round the chancel arch. This gable window has in the upper spaces, an open hand, with three fingers uplifted, representing the three persons of the Trinity. Next it is the Lamb of God, carrying a banner and Cross. Below are the two lights, filled by figures of the Good Shepherd and of John the Baptist. Below is the lettering – “In memory of Simon Staughton. Died, 1863, aged 63,” so far as can be made out. Two winged angels with harps beneath.

The latest addition to the stained glass windows in this church is the best of the lot, and it is by the Melbourne artist, William Montgomery. It is an exquisite piece of work, in every detail. The colouring is brilliant, yet not gaudy; the drapery, the expressions, and all the background, show “work,” not slumming, as in a window not far off. There are two windows, both showing female figures. One represents Faith, a youthful lady, as befits the subject, clasping a cross, and with rays of Divine light striking her head. Robe, blue, with white bodice starred with gold. The companion figure, as befits Charity, is maternal, with a very fine expression, although the right eyelid does droop too much. She is carrying an infant on her right arm, and her left arm and hand encircle an older child. She wears a white robe, with a crimson cloak. Below runs the scroll work – not too well done, and wrongly spaced – “Emma, wife of Molesworth R. Greene, in memory of. Aged 76 years. Died, 5th March, 1905.”

Other windows in this church are – In the apse, above the altar, 3 quatre foils, the centre one being I.H.S, flanked by the Greek letters representing A.O. – Alpha and Omega. Next the choir seats and the organ are two windows both lettered – “Catherine McLeod, of Tallisker, died 28th Feb., 1863.” This lady gave some of the land upon which the church is built, and also built the old Sunday school. She was generally known as lady McLeod. She is buried in the adjacent churchyard, if we read the tombstones there aright. Next the pulpit is a memorial window to Henry George Grant, died 1st May, 1871. Aged 27. Next that a two-light window showing figures of St. John and St. Phillip, and to the memory of Charles Stawell Greene, born 1855, died 1856; Alice Fairlie Greene, 1859-1860; Molesworth William Greene, 1865-1867. Next, St. Andrew and St. James, to the memory of father, sister, and brother of Mrs. George Wood. Next, St. Peter and St. Paul, to the memory of the father, mother, and sister of Mr. George Wood. Next, a window to memory of John Grant, 30th April, 1856, aged 29 years. On the other side of the church, next the font, there are three plain glass windows. Next them the window to Mrs. Greene. Then two very poor ones, representing the Madonna and Crucified Savour [sic]. One is to the memory of Eliza Bacchus, 1828-1872. The other to the memory of Captain William Henry Bacchus, born 12th August, 1872, died Feb. 26, 1849. This church, therefore, with its tombstones outside, deserves an endowment, if anyone is rich enough and generous enough to provide it.

            Outside, some of the graves have been repaired and cleaned. The Dr. Grant headstone is toppling over sideways; and the Bence marble slab is leaning forward, owing to the foundations to the bluestone base having subsided. During the cleaning up, a loose slab of marble was found within the McLeod railings, and it reads, as far as can be made out – “This tablet, erected by his children, is sacred to the memory of Major McLeod, who died in Sydney, N.S.W., 11th April, 1838, leaving a widow and twelve children”

            The church has been well built, but being upon a gravel hill the hot weather seems to have a disturbing effect, and the drainage by underground pipes is a danger. Surface drains are much safer. All of which points to the conclusion that persons who wish to see this church improved and maintained should endeavour to help the Rev. C. A. Brewer (who is a good Conservator and good worker) and his colleagues in management, in the directions above indicated”.

The majority of the  Ferguson and Urie stained glass windows in Holy Trinity were erected in early 1881 with the Virgin & Child window erected early 1882.

The Virgin & Child and Crucifixion:

The Virgin & Child and Crucifixion windows were erected in early 1882 by William Henry Bachus Jnr (1820-1887) in memory of his father, Captain W. H. Bacchus and his sister Eliza.

“Eliza Bacchus, Born June 23rd 1828, Died Dec 6th 1872”

“Capt William Henry Bacchus, Born Aug 12th 1782, Died Feb 26th 1849”

Captain William Henry Bacchus (1782-1849) is the pioneer[10] who the town of Bacchus Marsh is named after[11]. He was originally stationed in Van Diemens Land (Tasmania) with his regiment, the 18th Light Dragoons. In 1837 he and his son William Jnr (1820-1887) brought sheep from Tasmania and proceeded to Victoria and increased their land holdings in the district that would eventually bear the Bacchus name. His gravestone[12] still exists on the grounds of Holy Trinity Church at Bacchus Marsh on land he had donated to the church. In 1935 an unusual story was published about an “Unclaimed Fortune” of £80,000 to which Captain William Henry Bacchus had been entitled to on the death of his uncle George Henry Bacchus who died in England[13] but nothing further is known of the outcome.

Launceston Examiner, Tas, Saturday 10th March 1849, page 6.

“At Bacchus’ Marsh, on the 26th February, Captain W.H. Bacchus, aged 67.”

The Bacchus Marsh Express, Vic, Saturday 9th July 1887, page 2.

 BACCHUS.- On the 7th inst., at his residence Peerewur, near Ballarat, William Henry Bacchus, aged 66 years.

Two Grisaille or Decorated windows:

First window is dedicated to Henry George Grant:

“In memory of Henry George Grant who died 1st May 1871, aged 27 years”

 The Bacchus Marsh Express, Vic, Saturday 13th May 1871, page 2.

 GRANT.- On the 1st inst., at Hopetoun, Bacchus Marsh, Henry George Grant, youngest son of the late James Grant, Gilmore-place, Edinburgh, Scotland.

 Second window is dedicated to Dr. John Grant:

 “In memory of John Grant who died 30th April 1856, aged 29 years”

The Argus, Melbourne, Vic, Monday 5th May 1856, page 4.

“On the 30th ult., at the residence of Mrs. McLeod, Bacchus Marsh, John Grant, Esq., surgeon, aged twenty-nine years.”

These windows were erected by William Grant, the brother of Henry & John.

William was elected Bacchus Marsh Shire President on Wednesday 14th September 1892[14].

St Phillip & St John windows.

 Dedicated to the infant children of Molesworth & Emma Greene:

 “In memory of Charles Stawell Greene, born 1855, died 1856”

“Alice Fairlie Greene, born 1859, died 1860”

“Molesworth William Greene, born 1864, died 1867”

 At the Consecration ceremony of Holy Trinity in April 1881, Molesworth Greene acted as Registrar of the Diocese and read the form of petition of consecration in the capacity of Chancellor of the Diocese[15].

Biography: Molesworth Richard Greene 1827-1916)

St Andrew & St James Major windows.

Dedicated to Francis, Mary, & William Dalton:

“In memory of her Father Francis Dalton, Sister Mary, Brother William, By Fanny C Wood”

 The Bacchus Marsh Express, Vic, Saturday 31st August 1872, page 2.

 DALTON.- On the 4th July, Mr. Francis Dalton, of Hackney, London, aged 72, father of Mrs. George Wood, of Bacchus Marsh.

The donor of the windows was Frances Catherine Wood nee Dalton, wife of George Wood. The Wood’s returned to England in April 1881 with only the intention of an 18 month stay but never returned to Australia. George died on the 26th October 1899 at his brother’s residence in Bristol, aged 75[16] and his wife Frances died fourteen years later on the 28th October 1913 at London, aged 85 [17].

St Peter & St Paul windows.

Dedicated to George, Jane & Elizabeth Wood.

“In memoriam of his father George, mother Jane, Sister Elizabeth, By George Wood”

George Wood was a prominent Grocer, wine and spirit merchant, trustee of Holy Trinity[18], and member of the Bacchus Marsh Council[19]. A significant number of the entries in the Bacchus Marsh Express of the time indicate that he spent much of his time in the court of petty sessions chasing small debts owed to him. In 1879 he was fined £25 for selling retail Brandy without a liquor licence[20].

George Wood and family returned to England aboard the Hydaspes on Monday 25th of April 1881. On the preceding Thursday, 21st of April 1881, a function was held at the Bacchus Marsh Mechanics Institute to bid them farewell. Their intention was to return to Bacchus Marsh in eighteen months but this never occurred and George and Frances died in England in 1899 and 1913 respectively.

The Bacchus Marsh Express, Vic, Saturday 23rd April 1881, page 2.

“On Thursday afternoon a presentation was made in the Mechanics’ Institute, Bacchus Marsh, to Mr. and Mrs. George Wood, and Miss Wood, who will sail on Monday by the mail steamer Hydaspes on a visit to England, from whence they purpose returning, and probably to Bacchus marsh, in about eighteen months time. The presentation consisted of a silver fruit epergne or centre table ornament bearing four handsomely chased glass dishes, three being supported by branches from the main stem and the fourth surmounting the centre pillar. There were also two smaller silver side ornaments bearing a single glass dish each. The design of these handsome articles of table garniture was unusually neat and effective, the principal features being representations of elephants heads and tusks, silver chains being used to impart gracefulness and lightness. Upon the principal epergne the following inscription was engraved:- “Presented to Mr. and Mrs. George Wood, on the eve of their departure for England, by friends and well wishers residents of Melbourne and Bacchus Marsh, as a token of their esteem and regard. Bacchus Marsh, Victoria, A.D. April 22, 1881”. In addition to these articles a gold chain and pendant was presented to Miss Wood. The whole represented a value of £50 we understand…”

The Bacchus Marsh Express, Vic, Saturday 16th December 1899, page 2.

WOOD.- On the 26th Oct., at the residence of his brother, Highfields, Chew Magna, Bristol, George Wood, late of Merrimu, Alleyn-park, Dulwich, aged 75.

 The Bacchus Marsh Express, Vic, Saturday 20th December 1913, page 2.

WOOD.- On Tuesday, 28th October, 1913, at “Braemar,” Kersfield Road, Putney Heath, London, S.W., Frances Catherine, widow of the late George Wood (formerly of Bacchus Marsh, Victoria), in her 85th year.”

The Good Shepherd & St John the Baptist windows.

Dedicated to Simon Staughton:

“In memoriam, Simon Staughton, died 18th May 1863, aged 68”.

The Argus, Melbourne, Vic, Tuesday 19th May 1863, page 5.

“We regret to announce the death of Mr. Simon Staughton, one of the early Victorian settlers, and one who personally and by repute is well known throughout the Australian colonies. The event took place at four o’clock yesterday morning, at Prince of Wales Hotel, St. Kilda. For some years past Mr. Staughton has suffered from disease of the liver, and for the last twelve months he has been to a great extent confined to his house. The immediate attack which occasioned his death was of some six weeks duration, and its fatal termination was by no means unexpected. Mr. Staughton arrived in Victoria in the early part of 1841. Though the architect of his own fortune, he brought with him means which enabled him to enter largely and at once into pastoral pursuits. He purchased the Exford Station, situated some twenty-four miles from Melbourne, from Dr. Walton, and from this locality he never removed. During the severe though temporary depression the colony suffered prior to the discovery of the gold-fields Mr. Staughton had to put forth his best efforts to maintain his position; but in the end he was successful. When prosperous times returned, he devoted his energies to the purchase of the fee-simple of his station, and at the present time some 70,000 acres – nearly the whole of the run – are in the possession of the family. His accumulated wealth thus enabled him to become one of the largest land owners in the colony, and in addition he purchased many city properties, was owner of a station on the Darling, and had recently taken a prominent position in connexion with the Melbourne Banking Company. Mr. Staughton has never taken an active part in the political affairs of the colony. He was a native of Huntingdonshire and was in the sixty-seventh year of his age. He has left a family of seven children. The funeral of the deceased gentleman is announced to take place on Wednesday morning.”

The Bacchus Marsh Express, Vic, Saturday 20th May 1916, page 3.

“BACCHUS MARSH.
By W. Williams, B.A.
No. 72”.

“…March 26th, 1881. Account of handsome stained glass windows placed in Holy Trinity Church. The large two-light window, above chief entrance, with three small round windows above it, was the gift of Mr. Samuel Thomas Staughton, and in memory of his father, the late Mr. Simon Staughton. The windows along northern wall, represent six of the Apostles, with two grisaille, or decorated windows flanking them at each end of the church. These two latter were placed there by Mr. W. Grant, lately of Hopetoun, in memory of his brothers, Dr. John Grant and Henry George Grant who are buried in church yard surrounding church. Two windows were supplied by Mr. Geo. Wood in memory of deceased relatives, and two were the gift of Mrs. George Wood, and bear an in memoriam inscription of names of her relatives. Mr. and Mrs. Molesworth Greene have two windows in memory of deceased children. In the chancel, at the back of the choir stalls, two windows, imported from England were placed by relatives of the late Mrs. Catherine McLeod formerly of Tallisker, Scotland, who is buried in the adjacent church yard, and was a highly respected resident of district, and member of congregation up to the time of her death in 1863. The artistic and mechanical skill displayed by Messrs. Ferguson & Urie, in the erection of these windows, was subject of much favorable [sic] comment, a note was made to the effect that it was worth mentioning that a Bacchus Marsh native, Mr. A. Murdoch executed nearly the whole of the work, the only part he had not done being the actual painting of the designs, but the placing of the glass and lead work had been performed by him as well as the fixing of the windows…”

[1] The Bacchus Marsh Express, Vic, Saturday 9th June 1877, page 2.

Feb 13 2013

1988: Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Victoria.

In 1878 the controversial and flamboyant Dr James George Beaney donated a stained glass window to the Melbourne Hospital in Swanston Street. The window was created by Ferguson & Urie and now resides in modern surroundings that would now be unfamiliar to its historical past, but still befitting to its history in medicine.

I’ve written a previous post on the Beaney window before with detailed information about the life and times of the controversial so called ‘Quack’ doctor Beaney. On the 18th of May 2012 Ms Laurel Clark found the current location of the historic Ferguson & Urie ‘Beaney’ stained glass window in the Chapel of the Monash Medical Centre at Clayton and graciously sent me photos. I visited the Monash on the 10th June 2012 to see the window personally and found that there were another three historical Ferguson & Urie window that have been placed in unusual settings. In this post I’ve included more detailed photos of the Beaney window, and the other two Ferguson & Urie windows located in the chapel (artificially illuminated) and also the ‘Good Samaritan’ window, now strangely incorporated within an unsympathetic  modern setting in the food court.

Photos taken 10th June 2012 and 17th August 2013.

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As I mentioned in the original article about the Beaney window, the glass has unfortunately been re-installed back-to-front in its frame with the exception of the small text panel at the base of the window, which is an extremely bizarre outcome from a restoration/conservation aspect. Until this is rectified we may never know the true intended colouring of this 135 year old window and how it was originally intended to be seen by the viewer.

The other three stained glass windows found at the Monash are equally important to the Ferguson & Urie stained glass history. Two predominantly yellow/gold coloured windows are artificially lighted just inside the chapel door and described as follows:

The left window in the chapel has a scrolling ribbon wrapped around a golden cross made up of small golden stylised depictions of the passion flower and has the text “The Lord Shall deliver him in the time of trouble”. The right window has the text:  “Blessed is the man that provideth for the sick and needy”, written in a ribbon that entwines a depiction of a ships anchor (well known as the religious symbol of “Hope”) and has a background of oak leaves and acorns.

The last window is outside the chapel and located in the fast food court and depicts the ‘Good Samaritan’. The text at the top of the window reads; “In as much as he did to one of the least of these we did it unto me”, and at the base; “Who is my neighbour”. This poor old historic window has now been fitted above a modern exit doorway in the Medical Centre’s food court and looks completely out of place. Its surroundings now look more akin to having been installed above the entrance to a MacDonald’s fast food outlet.

The last set of photos are of the memorial monument to James George Beaney located at the Melbourne General Cemetery and it still stands as testament to his ego. My photos of his monument were taken on the 9th December 2012 and it is quite an imposing landmark in the cemetery.

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

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Feb 8 2013

1873: St Monica’s Catholic Church, Footscray, Victoria.

Tenders for the erection of St Monica’s were advertised by the architect, T. A. Kelly, in June 1873[1]. The opening ceremony of St Monica’s was performed by the Rev J. Fitzpatrick on Sunday 3rd of May 1874 in the absence of Bishop Gould. The mass was read by Rev McGillicuddy and the dedication sermon performed by Rev J. F. Corbett[2]. To reduce the estimated ₤1,500 debt required to build the church, a Bazaar was held at the Footscray Town Hall on the 21st of May 1874[3] which ran for four days and was declared an outstanding success[4]. A number of fund raising activities were held in subsequent years but a considerable debt remained for nearly ten years until being declared debt free in October 1883[5]. On the Sunday the 6th of December 1885 the corner stone of the new extensions was laid[6] and the opening ceremony held on Sunday 16th May 1886[7]. The church was consecrated 16th November 1950[8]. Many further additions have been added since.

The church still contains some of the original Ferguson & Urie stock windows in the nave with the simple red and blue borders. Later stained glass was erected in the east end as a memorial to Rev P. Walshe which was created by William Montgomery and unveiled on Sunday the 9th August 1896[9]. A four light west window was created by Bill Gleeson in 1988. It would be likely that the original large east and west windows would have been identical in colouring and design as those few original two light windows that still remain in the nave.

Photos taken 20th February 2011.

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Foot notes:

Jan 23 2013

1874: Holy Cross Catholic Church, Moyhu, Victoria.

Twenty-seven kilometres south of Wangaratta in the north east of Victoria is the tiny township of Moyhu, noted in history for its connection with the the early Irish pioneers of the district and the infamous Kelly gang of the late 1800’s.

On Sunday the 4th of May 1873, in weather described as “unpropitious”, upwards of 150 people gathered about four kilometres north of the town of Moyhu to witness the Catholic Bishop of Victoria,  James Alepius Goold, lay the foundation stone of the Holy Cross Catholic Church. The sermon was preached by the Rev S. J. Kelly and the sum of £66 was raised at the collection [1]. A year later, Bishop Goold returned to officially dedicate the Church on Sunday 28th February 1875 [2].

In the chancel of Holy Cross are three historically significant stained glass windows that were crafted by the Colonial Victorian Stained Glass firm, Ferguson & Urie of North Melbourne.

Photos taken 14th January 2013.

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The windows were donated by pioneers of the district, Richard Shanley, James Whitty and Thomas Byrne.

Richard Shanley donated the single lancet window to the left of the altar depicting ‘St Patrick’, the patron saint of Ireland. The text at the base of the window reads; “The Gift of Mr Richard Shanley”.

Above the altar is a quatrefoil shaped stained glass window in the gable depicting the ‘Madonna and Child’. This was the gift of James Whitty in 1874 in memory of his wife Catherine. A brass plaque near the chancel reads; “The Rose Window of the mother and child above the altar in the sanctuary was presented by James Whitty of Boggy Creek in memory of his wife Catherine. Died 3rd April 1874, aged 52 years. R.I.P”.

To the right of the altar is a single lancet window depicting the Crucifixion, which was donated by Thomas Byrne and has the text at the base which reads; “The gift of Mr Thomas Byrne”.

It’s my opinion that all three of the Ferguson & Urie windows were erected at the same time in the latter half of 1874 during the construction of the church.

About the donors of the stained glass windows:

James Whitty (c.1814-1882):

The Whitty’s were natives of Wexford in Ireland and came to Victoria circa 1840’s as assisted Irish immigrants and began farming in the Woodstock area, south west of Whittlesea. On the 6th of February 1842 James Whitty married 20-year old Catherine Parnell at St Francis Church in Melbourne[3] and later began farming in the Moyhu area south of Wangaratta. The Whitty family prospered and in subsequent years increased their land holdings significantly. On the 3rd of April, 1874 James’ wife died. In memory of his beloved Catherine, James commissioned the Melbourne stained glass firm ‘Ferguson & Urie’ to create a beautiful stained glass window depicting the ‘Madonna and Child’. It was erected behind the altar of the new Holy Cross Catholic Church being built at Moyhu. Nearly twelve months to the day after Catherine’s death, James Whitty purchased the “Myrhee” run in the Boggy Creek area near Moyhu. James didn’t marry again and the following years would continue to be a test of his resolve as he became an arch nemesis of the outlaw Ned Kelly. In August 1877 Ned Kelly and his gang stole eleven of Whitty’s horses which they subsequently sold to unsuspecting farmers near Howlong just over the NSW border. The respectable German farmers, the Baumgarten brothers, and farmers Kennedy, Studders, and Cooke were all implicated in receiving the stolen Whitty horses and sent to trial [4]. In the following years James Whitty and his neighbouring farmers would continue to be the target of the Kelly gang. Subsequently Whitty and other farmers in the district formed the North Eastern Stock Protection League. They offered sizeable rewards for the conviction of the thieves, a move that was squarely aimed at the Kelly gang. Ned Kelly responded in kind by continuing the relentless theft of Whitty’s stock for years to come. One newspaper account quoted Kelly as saying “…during his career he had stolen 280 horses from Whitty’s station, and sold them; and beyond this he had never been guilty of any other crime…[5]”. The thefts and accusations continued and on one occasion Whitty was confronted by Ned Kelly at the Moyhu race course where Kelly accused Whitty of perpetuating the false rumour that he had stolen one of Whitty’s prized bulls[6].

In January 1879 Whitty’s horse “Prince Alfred” was disqualified in an Albury Hurdle race.[7] Although Kelly had nothing to do with the event it would no doubt have pleased him greatly.

Ned Kelly was eventually apprehended during the Glenrowan shoot-out on the 28th June 1880, thus ending years of animosity between the Kellys and Whitty and his fellow farmers. Ned Kelly was hanged on the 11th November 1880. Just over a year and a half later James Whitty died at his Moyhu property on the 11th June 1882 [8], aged 68. He was buried near his wife Catherine and daughter Julia at the Milawa cemetery. The gravestones read; “…erected by James Whitty in memory of his beloved wife Catherine, Died 3rd April 1874, aged 52 years. Also her daughter Julia who died Aug 27, 1880, aged 23 years.” Nearby, James Whitty’s gravestone reads; “Erected by his sons and daughters, to the memory of their beloved father, James Whitty, who died on the 14th of July 1882, aged 68 years, may his soul rest in peace”.

The stained glass window James donated to the Holy Cross Church at Moyhu, stands as testament to his devotion to his wife Catherine and the Whitty family’s Irish Catholic roots.

Richard Shanley (1835-1922)[9]:

Richard Shanley was a native of the parish of Kell, King’s County Ireland, and arrived in Hobson’s Bay as an unassisted immigrant at the age of 26 on the 31st of October, 1860 [10]. Having only spent a few days in Melbourne he set off for Wangaratta by coach and then “humped his bluey” (swag)[11] 50km south towards the Whitfield and Moyhu area. He gained employment doing general farm work in the area and later held a position as Cheese Maker at the Whitfield station with the Evans brothers who had come out on the same ship. In the following five years he worked for the Farrell, Dennett and Evans families and then rented a portion of the “Manarhee estate” from the Evans family and started farming on his own. Around 1867 his parents and brother arrived in the colony to join him and in 1870 he selected 320 acres of “Redcamp” station where he made his home and named the property “Fairfield” after the name of his father’s property in Ireland. In subsequent years he increased the size of his land holdings to around 1400 acres.

In 1874 Richard Shanley married Ellen Prendergast and in the same year donated a stained glass window to the Holy Cross Catholic Church at Moyhu. The window was created by Ferguson & Urie of North Melbourne and depicts St Patrick, the Patron Saint of Ireland.  The text at the base of the window reads: “The Gift of Mr Richard Shanley”.

In February 1901, disastrous bush fires swept over Moyhu and surrounding district and lives were lost and homesteads burnt. Richard Shanley was one of the lucky few and only lost 1500 acres of grassland and fencing [12].

In June 1907 Shanley attended a banquet on the farm of John Hughes at Greta, to celebrate the pioneers of the district. The event was attended by upwards of 250 people and Shanley was invited to speak during the dinner in which he gave a short account of his early days in the colony.

Four years later, on Wednesday the 18th January 1911, Shanley celebrated his half century in the Colony of Victoria by holding his own banquet for the pioneers of the Moyhu district, to which over 150 persons attended at his “Fairfield” property[13] where he extended on his previous speech in 1907 and gave a very detailed summary of his life, struggles, and friendship with the other pioneers of the district.

In January 1914, at the age of 79, he and his daughter Mary narrowly escaped serious injury near “Thistlebrook” when his horses broke loose from the buggy and bolted but despite his advanced age he succeeded in bringing the situation under control without injury to himself or Mary [14].

Richard Shanley died at his property “Fairfield” at Moyhu on the 31st August 1922 [15], aged 87. His wife Ellen (nee Prendergast 1824-1924) died two years later on the 21st August 1924 [16]and both were buried at the Milawa cemetery. They were survived by eight adult children.

Their grave stone at Milawa reads: “In loving memory of Richard Shanley, died 31st Aug 1922, aged 87. Also his wife Ellen Shanley, died 21st Aug 1924, aged 78”.

Thomas Byrne (c.1798-1883):

Thomas Byrne was a native of Wicklow, Ireland, and arrived in Australia as an un-assisted immigrant with his children aboard the ‘Phoenix’ in January 1856[17], his wife, unconfirmed as Sarah Dunne, having died in Ireland circa 1844.

In 1874 Thomas Byrne donated the single light stained glass window depicting the ‘Crucifixion’ to the Holy Cross Catholic Church in Moyhu. Thomas Byrne died at Moyhu aged 85 in 1883 [18]. He was buried at the Milawa cemetery with the inscription on the gravestone reading:

“In Memory of Thomas Byrne, A Patriarch, died 24th February 1883, aged 86 years. Also his daughter Mary Byrne who died April 21st 1903 aged 81 years.”

The North Eastern Ensign, Benalla, Vic, Friday 9th May 1873, page 2.

(On Sunday 4th May 1873 the foundation stone was laid by the Catholic Bishop of Melbourne, James Alepius Goold)

“MOYHU ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH.- On Sunday last the foundation stone of the new Roman Catholic Church at Moyhu was laid by the Right Reverend Dr. Goold, the Roman Catholic Bishop of Melbourne. The weather was unpropitious, but the ceremony was nevertheless attended by upwards of 150 persons. A sermon was preached by the Rev. Father Kelly, S. J., and a collection which was subsequently made realised the handsome sum of £66”.

The Colac Herald, Vic, Friday 5th March 1875, page 3.

(On Sunday 28th February 1875, the Catholic Church at Moyhu was dedicated)

“On Sunday last Archbishop Goold presided at the dedication of the Roman Catholic Church of St. John [sic?] of the Cross, at Moyhu, near Wangaratta…”

Foot notes:

[3] Married 6th February 1842 at St Francis’ Church Melbourne (marriage VIC BDM: 35423/1842). Catherine Parnell, born Offaly, Ireland to James Parnell and Catherine Horan.

[6] The Argus, Melbourne, Vic, Wednesday 18th Dec 1878, page 6. (Ned Kelly’s letter to Donald Cameron. MLA, post-marked Glenrowan, 14 Dec 1878).

[9] Richard Shanley, Vic BDM: 10575/1922. Aged 87. Son of Peter Shanley and Sarah Whelan.

[10] Richard Shanley arrived aboard the “Lightning”: Index to Unassisted Inward Passenger Lists to Victoria 1852-1923, Fiche 183, Page 007. (surname transcribed as ‘Chanley’). He arrived with his long time friend Rowland Hughes in their early 20’s.

[11] Wangaratta Dispatch and North-Eastern Advertiser, Wednesday 26 June 1907.

[13] Wangaratta Chronicle, Saturday 21st January, 1911.

[15] Wangaratta Chronicle, Saturday September 2,1922

[17] Thos Byrne: Index to un-assisted inward passengers lists to Vic 1852-1923, Fiche 105, page 001.

[18] Thos Byrne: Vic BDM: 2659/1883, aged 85.

Acknowledgements:

Special thanks to Joan Ellis for her assistance with access to Holy Cross at Moyhu and enthusiasm for the history.

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Jan 13 2013

1876: All Saints, Church of England, Learmonth, Victoria.

On Monday the 5th of September 1859, the members of the Church of England at Learmonth held a public meeting at the Wesleyan School Room to consider the purchase of land to erect their church[1].

The new Church of England building was erected under the supervision of the Ballarat architect, Henry Richards Caselli (c1816-1885), and was opened on Sunday 20th January 1861 by the first incumbent of the church, the Rev Henry Newton Woollaston[2].

The church was originally known as “Wycliffe Church of England”[3], after the Church of England reformer John Wycliffe (1320-1384)[4] but more than ninety years later was consecrated as “All Saints”  in July 1952 by Bishop Johnston[5].

At the liturgical east end of the church, behind the altar, is the oldest window in the church. It is a three light stained glass window crafted by Ferguson & Urie of North Melbourne. Even though the church was opened in 1861, the chancel window was not erected until 1876 when the new chancel was added.

This is confirmed by a couple of newspaper articles in 1876. The first, published in the Ballarat Star in April 1876 chronicled the event of the church Bazaar held on Easter Monday 1876. At the conclusion of the bazaar Mr. James Robertson of Mount Mitchell gave a £20 donation which was later considered by the church committee for use in purchasing a stained glass window.

In August of the same year the tabloids reported on the “Opening Ceremony” at which specific mention was made of the chancel window of stained glass supplied by “Urie & Ferguson”;

“…The whole of these improvements are heightened in their effect by one of Urie & Ferguson’s stained glass windows inserted in the chancel – as pretty, harmoniously pure, and pleasing a little work of art as one could wish to see…”

But despite the previous intimation that Mr Robertson’s £20 donation at the bazaar would be used to purchase the window, the donor was described as being a lady artist from the congregation:

“…This window is, we understand, the gift of a lady of the congregation, as a result of the disposal by art-union of several pictures painted by her for this purpose…” [6]

Photos taken: 2nd January 2013.

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The window is typical of early Ferguson & Urie colouring and geometric designs. The centre light has a scrolling ribbon with the text: “I am the living bread which came down from heaven” (John 6-51). The flanking windows have the symbols of Alpha and Omega, and stylised geometric designs of the Passion Flower in roundels at the top and bottom of each light. Above the three lights is a quatrefoil window depicting the cross with the intertwined letters “I.H.S”.

Foot Notes:

[5] The Chronicle, Newspaper of the Anglican Diocese of Ballarat, Vol 121 No.5, October 2011, p6.

[6] The Ballarat Star, Vic, Tuesday 15th August 1876, page 3.

Acknowledgements:

Thanks to Joy and Norma Whittenbury for their assistance and enthusiasm for the history and for organising access to the church.

 

Short link to this article: http://wp.me/p28nLD-1xI

Jan 12 2013

22-12-1864: Christ Church, Anglican, Myrniong, Victoria.

Located 72 kilometres west of Melbourne is the tiny township of Myrniong which lies less than a kilometer off the busy western freeway, 13km north west of Bacchus Marsh.

Amongst the many old historical buildings in the township is the Anglican ‘Christ Church’.

Built of bluestone nearly 150 years ago, the church’s most striking historical artifact is the remarkable three light stained glass window created by the Colonial Ferguson & Urie stained glass company in 1864.

Photos: Dated 12th January 2013.

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The foundation stone of Christ Church was laid on the 25th October 1864 [1] and was formally opened three months later on the 22nd of December 1864 at a cost of £500 [2].

The Church of England Gazette of 2nd January 1865 [3] made a scant reference to the window at the church opening on the 22nd of December 1864 and reported;

“..the east window of three lights, in stained glass, is of a handsome design..”

The three light window above the altar is an exceptionally well preserved example of Ferguson & Urie’s work from 1864 which has survived intact for nearly 150 years.

The left light shows various stylised depictions of the passion flower in the diamond quarries and at the base of the window is a scrolling ribbon with the text “Love Thy Neighbour” surrounded with deep blue oak leaves. At the time of taking these photos a huge birds nest on the external lower portion of the left light shows a very dark patch in the photo of the window.

The centre light contains the Shield of the Trinity in the middle with the Latin texts,  “NON EST” (Is Not), “EST” (Is),  “PATER” (The Father),  “FILIUS” (The Son), “DEUS” (God), and “S.SANC” (‘SPIRITUS SANCTUS’ – The Holy Spirit).  At the base is an intricate Golden Chalice surrounded by a ribbon with the scriptural text, “This do in remembrance of me” (most likely to be from 1 Corinthians 11-24). The background of the chalice depicts vine leaves in crimson red and the outer depicts oak leaves in deep blue with interspersed small red passion flowers.

The right light is nearly identical to the left light with the exception of the ribbon at the base which has the text “Fear God”.

[1] The Bacchus Marsh Express, Vic, Saturday 17th November 1906, page 3.

[2] Church of England Gazette, Monday 2nd January 1865, page 267.

[3] ibid.

Acknowledgement:

Thanks to Wendy and Gordon Vearing of Myrniong for their assistance with access to the church and their enthusiasm for the history.

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

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Jan 6 2013

24-05-1884: St Michael’s Catholic Church, Little River, Victoria.

In 1884 Ferguson & Urie erected a two light stained glass window over the altar of St Michael’s Catholic Church at Little River, west of Melbourne. The window depicts Jesus in the left light in the Garden of Gethsemane praying to a chalice and St Michael in the right light also kneeling in prayer. The window was originally erected in the first bluestone church in 1884 at the instigation of a Miss Ellen Bannon[1], The original bluestone church was demolished in 1921 and a new red brick church was built in its place with some of the original bluestone from the old church used for the foundations. The stained glass window was also re-erected over the altar of the new church which opened in April 1922[2].

Photos were taken: 14th Dec 2012 & 2nd Jan 2013.

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Advocate, Vol. XV, No. 801, 24 May 1884, p.15.

“GEELONG [From our own correspondent]

 The additions and improvements to the Catholic Church at Little River are now nearly completed.  A generous lady, Miss Banim[3], who has already contributed largely towards the funds of the church, last week sent an order to Messrs. Ferguson and Urie, of Melbourne, for a handsome stained glass window, to be erected over the altar; while another lady promises a carpet for the sanctuary, and a chest of drawers for the vestments, etc….”[4]

The memorial text across the bottom of the windows reads:

“TO THE GLORY OF GOD – AND IN HONOUR OF
THE REV M MURPHY – PASTOR OF THIS CHURCH
THIS WINDOW IS THE GIFT OF – ELLEN BANNON 1884”

The donor of the window, Miss Ellen Bannon/Bannin died two years later in 1886 at the Prince Alfred Hospital aged 46, and she was buried at the St Kilda General Cemetery[5]. The name of the “Rev M. Murphy” mentioned on the window is more elusive. The text says in “Honour” rather than “In Memory” so there is some conjecture as to whether the Rev M. Murphy was actually alive or not at the time of the window being commissioned by Ms Ellen Bannon in 1884. From the Catholic directories National Council of Priests[6], the only recorded name match is for a “Rev Michael Denis Murphy” who died 13/02/1939 and ministered in the parishes of “Meredith, Footscray, etc, Victoria” (no other specific detail known).

The Argus, Melbourne, Vic, Monday 8th March 1886, page 1.

“BANNON.- On the 6th inst., at Alfred Hospital, Ellen Bannon, late of Lara. Aged 46 years. R.I.P”.

“THE Friends of the late Miss ELLEN BANNON, late of Lara, are most respectfully invited to follow her remains to their last resting-place, in the St. Kilda General Cemetery. The funeral is appointed to leave the Alfred Hospital, THIS DAY (Monday), at 11 o’clock a.m.  BENJAMIN T. STEVENS, undertaker, 280 Church-street, near Swan-street, Richmond”.

http://www.standrewswerribee.org.au/little-river.htm

“St Michael’s Little River Catholic community started in 1857, when Fr. Ranald Rankin was appointed resident priest by Melbourne’s first Archbishop, James Goold. Fr. Ranald Rankin came out to Australia from Scotland on the Marco Polo in 1853.  At that time, the Parish extended as far as Anakie and Footscray and it was the only church between Williamstown and Geelong. Fr. Rankin built St. Michael’s Church from local bluestone. During the week the church was also used as a denominational school. When Fr. Rankin died in February 1863, the parish was closed because of a shortage of priests. It was incorporated into the Geelong Mission. In 1906 Archbishop Thomas Carr created the parish of St. Andrews Werribee which incorporated St. Michael’s Little River. The old bluestone church was demolished and the present one was built. It was blessed and opened by Archbishop Daniel Mannix on the 2nd of April 1922…” [7]

The death and burial of Ellen Bannon/Bannim in 1886:

Vic BDM: 3078/1886, Bannin, Ellen, age 46, died PRN ALF H (Prince Alfred Hospital). Parents listed as unknown.

St Kilda General Cemetery, Ellen Bannin, age 46, buried at ROMAN CATHOLIC, MONUMENTAL, COMPARTMENT D GRAVE 616.

There is obviously some confusion as to the spelling of her surname as either Bannin or Bannon. The stained glass window, obituary and funeral notice both have “Bannon” and the BDM Index entry and cemetery record both have “Bannin”.

Werribee Shire Banner, Vic, Thursday 6th April 1922, page 2.

“OPENING NEW R.C. CHURCH AT LITTLE RIVER.

“Nearly 2000 people witnessed the solemn blessing and opening of a new Roman Catholic Church at Little River on Sunday afternoon last by the Archbishop of Melbourne, Dr. Mannix. The sacred edifice, which cost in the vicinity of £2,500, may be recognised as a gift church, the late Huon McNaughton having left he sum of £2,300 for this purpose. The construction of the church was commenced some twelve months ago, but owing to unforseen circumstances it was not completed until recently, when work was finally executed by Mr. John Smith, of Meredith. The church which is built of brick, and neatly furnished, will accommodate about 200 people, and the parishioners of Little River can well feel proud of having one of the most handsome and elaborately equipped churches in the country parishes of Victoria…”

[1] Advocate, Vol. XV, No. 801, 24 May 1884, p.15.

[3] Ellen Bannon, as per dedication text on window. Interchangeably spelt as Bannin and Bannon on other notices.

[4] Article sent from Dr. Bronwyn Hughes, email, 14 Dec 2012.

[6] Sally Heath, NCP, email 4 Jan 2013.

Jan 3 2013

17-02-1896: St. George’s Church, Carlton, Victoria.

St George’s Church in Carlton is a bluestone building built in 1855-6 to the design of architects George and Schneider, the foundation stone of which was laid by Bishop James Alipius Goold in 1855. The Church is located on the grounds of the Corpus Christi College in Carlton and now known as the Corpus Christi Chapel.

On Sunday the 16th of February 1896[1], a memorial stained glass window depicting the Crucifixion was unveiled in the south transept of St George’s to the memory of William Ievers, M.L.A[2], who died at Macartney’s private hospital, East Melbourne[3] on the 19th of February 1895.

William Ievers (1839-1895), was the son of William Ievers Snr[4] (1818-1901) and Mary Harrison (c.1819-1898). A native of Ireland, William arrived with his parents and siblings aboard the Rienzi on the 22nd April 1855[5].

An obituary written about him in February 1895[3] significantly details his life but makes no mention of his historical involvement as the Vice President of the Carlton Football Club between 1890-1894[6].

A plaque affixed to the gate of the Corpus Christie College gate in Drumond street Carlton includes a reference to the Ievers stained glass window as being by Ferguson & Urie;

“…in 1896 a memorial stained glass window to local Councillor William Ievers, designed by the prominent firm of Ferguson and Urie was installed in the south transept…”

News articles from 1896 indicate that the stained glass window was designed by “Mr. Smyrk”, (Herbert Moesbury Smyrk (1861-1947), who was formerly of the stained glass firm of Smyrk & Rogers (partnership dissolved in 1888). At the time the Ievers memorial window was made, Smyrk was then in the employ of Ferguson & Urie.

On the 12th of November 1924, St George’s church was gutted by fire[7] and the William Ievers stained glass window is not known to have survived.

Other memorials to members of the Ievers family include the William Ievers memorial drinking fountain[8] erected in his name by his brother George Hawkins Ievers, in Macarthur Square, Rathdowne Street, Carlton. George also erected another fountain to his father William Ievers Snr in Argyle Square Carlton[9] and his own memorial fountain is at the Corner of Gatehouse Street and Royal Parade, Parkville[10]

The Ievers family home, named after their roots in Ireland, “Mount Ievers”, was located at 521 Royal Parade in Parkville but was demolished circa 1975.

The Ievers family grave and monument still exists at the Melbourne General Cemetery,Roman Catholic,, Section Q, Grave 304/305.

These photos were taken on various dates in 2012. The photo of “Mount Ievers” mansion, at 521 Royal Parade Parkville is from from the SLV and dated prior to 1975.

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Transcriptions:

The Argus, Melbourne, Vic, Wednesday 20th February 1895, page 5.

DEATH OF MR. IEVERS, M.L.A.

“Though not unexpected, the announcement of the death of Councillor William Ievers, jun., M.L.A, which occurred last night at Miss Macartney’s private hospital, East Melbourne, will be received generally with feelings of deep regret. A fortnight ago an operation of a painful and serious nature was performed upon Mr. Ievers, and though at the time he appeared likely to recover, he subsequently developed symptoms which alarmed his friends and caused his medical adviser, Mr. Charles Ryan, to fear that there was little hope that he would live. On Monday evening he improved somewhat, but yesterday morning suffered a relapse, and hope was finally abandoned. At 8 o’clock at night he died, surrounded by the members of his family. The cause of his death was urenic poisoning, due to failure of the kidneys. Mr. Ievers was born in Limerick, Ireland, in 1844 [sic: 1839[11]], and came with his father (who is still living and well known in Melbourne) to Victoria in 1855. As a junior he entered the warehouse of Messrs. William Watson and Sons, and remained there until about 1880. By that time he had mounted step by step to be head of one of the departments. When he left the warehouse he joined the firm of his father and brothers, Messrs. William Ievers and Sons, auctioneers, estate, and commission agents, of Collins-street and Carlton. About the same time he was elected a member of the City Council for Smith Ward, and retained the seat up to the time of his death. He sought to enter the Assembly for the Carlton electorate, but was twice beaten. Then when the electorate was subdivided he contested the seat for Carlton South, and after one unsuccessful attempt he unseated Mr. W. H. Leonard at the 1892 election. At the last election he held the seat against the opposition of Mr. Thompson, securing a large majority of votes. In the Assembly Mr. Ievers sat in the Ministerial Corner, and since he rose but seldom to address the House, and then only on subjects with which he was thoroughly conversant, he was invariably listened to with respect. During the last session he was appointed chairman of the banking Commission, but owing to his ill-health was unable to preside at their meetings. Mr. Ievers was a representative of the Melbourne City Council on the Metropolitan Board of Works, and he was also a justice of the peace. He was un-married, and resided with his parents at Mount Ievers, Sydney-road, Parkville. He was very much respected as an honourable and an upright man. He took part in many social organisations specifically formed to promote intellectual advancement, and always evinced a keen interest in the study of the great authors. For many years he was a prominent oarsman, but his exercise on the river had a very painful ending. He was sculling up stream one day, and was run into by another sculler, the bow of whose boat struck him on the spine, and caused what were for a time serious injuries.”

Advocate, Melbourne, Vic, Saturday 15th February 1896, page 16.

“ST. GEORGE’S, CARLTON
A stained glass window to the memory of the late Cr. Wm. Ievers, M.P., has been erected in St. George’s Church, with which the family of the deceased gentleman have been very intimately connected since the foundation of the building was laid. Mr. Wm. Ievers, jun., to whose memory this mark of respect is paid, was himself associated with St. George’s Church since his boyhood, and he and other members of his family have always taken a deep and practical interest in Catholic affairs in the district of Carlton. The memorial is a three light window, which replaces the one heretofore in the southern transept. The centre light contains a representation of the crucifixion, the side lights being filled with a modern treatment of ecclesiastical ornament. On the right of the crucifixion is the inscription:- “He was wounded for our iniquities, and by His bruises we are healed;” and on the left:- “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord, for their works follow them.” The record reads:- “In memoriam, William Ievers, Jun., M.P., J.P.” The treatment of the crucifixion in the centre light does not show the Saviour in the hands of the Jew and Roman ignorantly and maliciously fulfilling the mysteries of Redemption, but is strictly devotional in character. Christ is depicted as dead, and the figures of the B. Virgin and St. John stand motionless on either side in subdued sorrow, while Magdalene kneels gravely at the foot of the cross. The colouring is very rich in treatment – yet with a beautiful soft harmony throughout. The work has been carried out by Messrs Ferguson and Urie, from the designs of Mr. H. Smyrk, and to the order of Cr. William Ievers, the father of the deceased gentleman. The memorial will be unveiled at the 11 o’clock Mass on Sunday, 16th inst., when panegyric of the deceased will be preached by the Rev. Isaac Moore, S.J.”

The Argus, Melbourne, Vic, Monday 17th February 1896, page 5.

“MEMORIAL TO THE LATE MR IEVERS, M.L.A.

SERMON BY FATHER MOORE.

A special service was rendered yesterday morning at St. George’s Church, Carlton, in memory of the late Mr. William Ievers, M.L.A., who died on February 19, 1895. A fine stained-glass window has been erected in the southern transept of the church by the members of the late Mr. Ievers’s family, and, while it harmonises well with the beautiful interior of the church, serves also as an enduring memorial of the deceased gentleman. It is a three-light window, the centre light showing the principal design, which consists of a representation of the Crucifixion. The colouring is rich but subdued, and the figures of the crucified Christ and of the mourners at the foot of the cross stand out sharp and distinct in every detail. A suggestion of the distant city of Jerusalem rising behind the hill of Calvary is a new feature introduced into the composition by the artist, Mr. Smyrk, who designed the work, which has been carried out by the well known firm of Messrs. Ferguson and Urie. There was a crowded congregation, and the special sermon was preached by the Rev. Isaac Moore, S. J….”

The Argus, Melbourne, Vic, Thursday 13th November 1924, page 8.

“Fire in Old Church”.

“An old Melbourne landmark will probably disappear as the result of a fire last evening, when the St. George’s Roman Catholic Church, in Drummond street, Carlton, which was built in 1855, and was used as a boy’s schoolroom, was almost completely destroyed. The cause of the outbreak is a mystery. The school was securely locked at a quarter to 5 o’clock, and at 6 o’clock the housekeeper of the Presbytery, which adjoins the old church, saw smoke issuing from a ventilator on the roof. Five minutes later the building was a mass of flame. The head fire station at Eastern Hill was notified, and a large detachment of men was soon on the spot. The firemen were greatly hampered in their work by the intense heat, for, although the outer walls of the church are constructed of bluestone blocks, it was lined with wood, and the roof was stayed with old wooden rafters, which burned fiercely. Many children were playing in the grounds at the time, and some were endangered by the flying sparks. Several hoses were played on the heart of the fire, which was at the eastern end of the building, but it was some time before the firemen were able to get close enough to break down the doors and enter. When they could do so they concentrated a stream of water on to the blazing rafters, and the outbreak was soon subdued. The building contained desks, black boards, and the usual furnishings of a school room, most of which were destroyed. The inner walls were severely damaged, and gaping holes were left in the roof. The building and contents were insured with the Catholic Church Insurance Co., for £1,500, but it is not thought that this amount will cover the damage. The chief fire officer (Mr. Harris B. Lee), who was early on the scene, said that it was extraordinary that although hundreds of people must have seen the flames, nobody gave the alarm until the fire was noticed by the housekeeper. The building, which was constructed as a schoolroom in 1897, accommodated 220 pupils”.

External links:

Biography: William Ievers Snr (1818-1901)

An interesting history of William Ievers Snr (1818-1901), is detailed in a book he wrote in 1894 titled  “Fifty Years After; or, Old Scenes Revisited.” Extracts were republished in The Old Limerick Journal under the titles of,  William Ievers: Old Scenes Revisited and A visit to Paris 1890. His son William Ievers Jnr (1839-1895), referred to as “Willie”, accompanied his father on the journey back to Ireland in 1890 and the book was a result of William Snr’s journals.

Footnotes:

Dec 29 2012

22-05-1897: Presbyterian Church, Werribee, Victoria.

In the last three years of the history of the Ferguson & Urie stained-glass company of North Melbourne they were still performing regional glazing repairs. On Friday 14th May 1897 a storm went through Werribee and damaged a stained glass-window at the Presbyterian Church (now Cross Roads Uniting) which was repaired by a tradesman from Ferguson & Urie. There is no evidence that proves the window was one Ferguson & Urie’s original installations from when the church was built in 1884.

The Bacchus Marsh Express, Vic, Saturday 22 May 1897, page 3.
“The strong northerly gale that was blowing across these plains on the night of Friday of last week, with its occasional severe gusts, has unfortunately not passed over us without doing some damage; for, in addition to the unthatching of stacks, on many of the farms, the north window, high up in the spire of the Presbyterian church, which is exposed to the full force of wind from the north, has been very badly damaged, necessitating complete renewal of the lead work, and a great deal of the glass. The damage was first noticed by the Rev. John McIntosh on Saturday; pieces of the lead work and glass were blown in and were strewn over the floor of the belfry; while the window itself was just hanging together, vibrating with the wind, which by this time had fortunately veered round to the west. He at once communicated with Mr. Adam Hastie, Mr. G. T. Chirnside’s manager, informing him of the damage, and at the same time wrote in to Messrs. Ferguson & Urie, of Melbourne, to send out a man at the earliest moment. When the tradesman arrived it was at once seen that the window would require to be taken out as the joints of the lattice lead work were, for the most part, broken, and the rods and stays were loose, so that in order to make a secure job, the window will have to be re-leaded. The repairs will possibly cost over £3, so that ‘its an ill wind that blows nobody good!”

Photos taken: 30th Dec 2010.

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As at 2012, the north an west facing belfry windows of the church are extremely unlikely to be of any original glass produced or at anytime repaired by Ferguson & Urie.

Related posts:

23-05-1896: Presbyterian Church, Werribee, Victoria.
1876: Werribee Park Mansion.

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