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Former Wesleyan Church

Other Name Uniting Church Location 23A Gladstone Street,, MOONEE PONDS VIC 3039 - Property No B7311 File Number B7311 Level State

[1/2] B7311 Fmr Wesleyan Church [2/2] B7311 Fmr Wesleyan Church

Statement of Significance

What is significant? The former Wesleyan Church, constructed in 1890-91 to the design of A E Duguid, is a bichrome (red and cream) brick and stucco building in the Later Gothic, Free Decorated style which is distinguished by its exceptionally tall, slated spire and the row of side gables on the west and east elevations. Each large gable contains a tall window, while the small one has a door. These tall and large windows create an exceptionally well-lit interior while their gables contribute to a complex and sophisticated interior. The spire rises to a height of 40m (130 ft). The building, a former preaching church, with its exterior complexity continued inside to form an impressive nave accentuated by a raked floor. The church plan is further distinguished by a small width foyer that runs right across the front with short returns on each side and a low ceiling. Walking from the foyer's small scale into the large high nave is a deliberately dramatic experience. Although its exterior does not express the simplicity of the foyer it does contribute to the variety of carefully arranged massing of the building which, originally would have been much more clearly understood. The later buildings were added on each side, restricting the views to a shallow angle and obscuring the sight of the series of intersecting hip roofs of the rear. Its size and exuberant detailing have made it a landmark building in Moonee Ponds. The church has played an important role in the ecclesiastical history of the area.
How is it significant? The Wesleyan Church, Moonee Ponds is significant for architectural, historic, social reasons at a State level.
Why is it significant? The former Wesleyan Church is architecturally significant as a fine example of the Wesleyan building, the Later Gothic: Free Decorated style and, probably the best work of architect A EDuguid. The exceptionally tall, slated spire, rows of gabled windows on the west and east sides and fine detailing give it its strong expression. Composed successfully as an integration of differently sized gables, which are also repeated in details such as roof vents and parapet stepping. Intersecting and apparently intersecting forms contribute to the interesting and satisfying composition of the building. Unusual engaged columns at the base of the nave gable support bartizan towers which are also placed over angle buttresses to the bell cast tower. Internally it is distinguished by the fine nave. The building is a local landmark and is set in what is now a very busy and prominent area. Historically and socially, the church, an early public building, has played a significant role in the history of the district, and has associations with Tilly Aston, notable writer, teacher and philanthropist.
Classified: 27/02/2006