Marvelous St Anne’s isn’t it? This remarkable church stands before you a testament to faith perseverance and architectural skill. Let’s delve into its captivating history.
St Anne’s Roman Catholic Church on Underwood Road boasts a rich past. Its story begins not in 1855 when the nave was completed but much earlier. In 1829 land nearby was acquired for a Catholic school. Father William Young a zealous Irish priest began holding Mass there in 1848. He was drawn to Stepney by the influx of Irish immigrants fleeing the potato famine.
Father Quiblier a French Sulpician priest continued Father Young’s work. On November 19 1850 he officially announced his intention to establish a chapel under the name of St Anne’s in Spicer Street. This first chapel likely occupied the schoolhouse. Recognizing the immense needs of the community Father Quiblier sought help from the Marist Fathers. Their arrival in September 1850 marked a significant turning point. Within months a community of six priests had been established. Father Quiblier’s legacy is honored by a stained-glass window in the present church.
In October 1850 land was purchased at the southwest corner of Underwood Street and Albert Street. This site provided ample space for a church and presbytery. Gilbert R Blount a pupil of A W N Pugin designed the buildings. His plans for the presbytery were submitted in 1851 and the building was completed in 1852. The church’s ambitious initial design included transepts and a central tower. However these features were eventually omitted resulting in the simpler structure we see today.
Construction of the nave began in 1853. It was oriented north and south a unique feature. The first Mass was celebrated on September 12 1855. The church’s completion in 1894 followed a reduced plan. The marble altar was added in 1901. The church was finally consecrated in 1905 a moment of great celebration. Later additions included altar rails in 1935 and a marble pulpit in 1939. Unfortunately much of the original stained glass was lost during World War II.
The thirteenth-century style architecture is striking. Kentish ragstone and ashlar dressings form the exterior walls. The interior is particularly well designed. The high-quality stone carving is truly impressive. Notice the intricate details like the angel corbels in the open timber roof. Each one is adorned with angels playing musical instruments a delightful touch.
The church’s exterior is simple yet captivating. The north front with its arcaded gable rose window and buttressed turrets displays French influences. The impressive presbytery with its garden wall completes the architectural ensemble. Today St Anne’s is home to the Brazilian Chaplaincy. It continues to serve as a place of worship and a vital part of the community. This beautiful structure is a living reminder of faith devotion and the enduring spirit of its founders.