Baptist Church & Bevington Organ

The Hamilton Baptist Church is of local significance for its historical associations and its architecture. The land on which the church is built was sold by the Crown to Charles Rogers, the Post Master and an active Wesleyan, on 28 January 1863. ([i]) The Baptist Congregation was formed in 1867 and the church was opened in May 1868. ([ii]) The site was purchased not granted. Their strict religious principles prevented the Baptists from accepting state aid in the form of a grant of land. The architectural style used is also interesting. The Baptists eschewed anything Gothic because of its associations with Rome and Popery but the rigour of this tenet was just starting to weaken in Melbourne. ([iii]) This church is important as a very early example of the use of remotely Gothic details by the Baptists and can be compared with the churches of the other minor denominations. There is early photographic evidence that the side walls were decorated with large diaper patterns of darker bricks which, if they dated from 1868, would be contemporary with the first fashionable use of polychrome brick in Melbourne. ([iv]) The matching hall was added in 1911. ([v])

The church and hall are significantly intact and are in excellent condition. Because of their location on the top of the St Ronan's hill they are a dominant element in the streetscape. This is enhanced by the Washingtonia robusta palm in the garden which relates to those at 6 Dryden Street, around the Melville Oval and beside the former Wesley Church in Alexandra Parade.

The church houses the highly significant Bevington organ, the only surviving example of the work of Bevington and Sons in Victoria. It represents a rare example of the work of a prominent 19th century organ builder. Its age and high degree of integrity enhance its value. ([vi]) Dating from as early as 1820, the organ was installed in 1908 having been used in other Hamilton churches.

Group

Religion

Category

Church