BETHANY GOSPEL HALL (FORMER)

How is it significant?
The Bethany Gospel hall at 235 Victoria Street, Brunswick, is of local historical and aesthetic significance to the City of Moreland. It is also significant as a representative example of a public hall from the interwar period.

Why is it significant?
The Bethany Gospel Hall at 235 Victoria Street, Brunswick, is historically significant for its demonstration of the many Non-Conformist religious groups operating in Moreland between the wars. The Society of Brethren who were part of the Protestant Evangelical Christian Church were one of many religious groups who established places for meeting and worship in Moreland. These places are particularly well represented in Brunswick. The two parts of the Gospel Hall built in 1924 and 1930 demonstrate the growth of the Brethren, who generally worshipped in Gospel, Assembly or Conference Halls. These places demonstrate a simplicity of approach where reading and speaking were carried out in a non- hierarchical manner. (Criterion A)
The Bethany Gospel Hall at 235 Victoria Street, Brunswick, built in 1924, is a representative example of a public hall from the interwar period. It features the relatively plain and unadorned architecture for which the Brethren is known. When compared with the examples of other 'like' halls it is less accomplished stylistically. (Criterion D)
The Bethany Gospel Hall at 235 Victoria Street, Brunswick, is aesthetically significant for its evocation of its former use through the rendered panel with 'Gospel Hall' signwriting. The plain brick 1924 hall is significant for its elevation to Burchett Street. The 1930 hall is aesthetically significant for its form and materials of red brick and terracotta tiles, and its facade treatment of rendered panels and contrasting clinker brick. (Criterion E)

Group

Religion

Category

Church Hall