“Who was St Elisabeth?” I ask you to consider. Here we stand before St Elisabeth, Buckhurst Hill. It’s a church with a fascinating backstory.
Let’s delve into how St Elisabeth, Buckhurst Hill, came to be. This church wasn’t always here. Its origins are rooted in a growing community.
Back in 1837 a chapel-of-ease was built in Buckhurst Hill. It was dedicated to St John the Baptist. This chapel became the parish church in 1867. The parish of Buckhurst Hill was created that same year.
As the community expanded two mission churches were established. St Stephen’s was opened in 1876. Then in 1936 another mission church appeared.
Now, here’s where St Elisabeth enters the story. In 1938, the permanent brick-built church dedicated to St Elisabeth was erected. It honored Mrs Elizabeth French. She was the founder of the local building firm W and C French. Mr Charles French built and paid for St Elisabeth’s church. It was a memorial to his parents William and Esther French. The spelling of Elisabeth follows the Authorised Version of the Bible.
Neither St Stephen’s nor St Elisabeth’s had a burial ground.
In 1977 the parish acquired 18 Victoria Road. It was a house for the team vicar. This was funded by the sale of the parsonage at 75 Hornbeam Road. That parsonage was next to St Elisabeth’s church. In 1985 the house in Victoria Road was sold. A new team vicarage was built on the corner of Albert Road and Cedar Close.
St Elisabeth’s district comprised a specific area. It included the remaining area to the east of the railway. Plus Broadfield Way, Farm Close, and other nearby locations.
So, St Elisabeth’s church stands as a testament to family. It is also a testament to community growth. It embodies faith and remembrance. As you reflect on St Elisabeth, Buckhurst Hill remember its story. It is a story of dedication and love.