All Souls' War Memorial Church, Bangalow

About

All Souls' War Memorial Church in Bangalow, NSW, was designed in the form of a cathedral. It has a high gabled roof that is covered with tiles. The walls are constructed of brick up to the windows, with painted render above. It has several sets of windows, with each set comprising of two narrow Gothic-shaped windows. They are positioned between buttresses at the side of the building, as well as one set within the front facade. There is a cross at the top of the gable and the foundation stone is set on the northern side of the church. The front of the building is dominated by a Norman-shaped bell tower. Construction began in 1927, at a site near the old church. The architect was Mr F.  J. Board and the contractor was Mr Braid, both of Lismore. The foundation stone was laid on 26 June 1927 by the Bishop of Grafton, Right Rev. J. Washton (Northern Star, 5 July 1927). On 16 October 1928, the Northern Star reported the church was nearing completion. The Rector, Canon C. F. Seymour, called for anyone interested in donating furniture or fittings to do so soon, as all items had to be approved by the furniture committee. The opening and dedication of the church took place on 7 December 1928. The event and building were described in detail in the Tweed Daily on 12 December: It was indeed a big undertaking, but by hard work, unbounded enthusiasm, and a desire to honor the boys who did so much for the Empire, the effort aimed at was attained, and there is much rejoicing.  [The church] is one of the most beautiful on the North Coast. It is of pretty design and most faithfully built. While it provides a very handsome addition to the architectural beauties of Bangalow, it is also a permanent monument to the progress of the district, spiritually and otherwise, and a testimony of the thankfulness of the people for the deeds of the soldiers.  The church is now known as All Souls' Anglican Church. Access inside is restricted to its opening hours. Outside are the All Souls' Anglican Church Second World War Memorial Wall and Gates and inside is the Aircraftman Class II Guy Edward Saunders Memorial Window.

Photos