Pause for a moment at the corner of Homebush and Beresford Roads. Here stands St Anne’s, a beautiful testament to faith and community. This is Enfield & Strathfield Anglican Church.
Moves to create an Anglican Church in Strathfield started in 1884. It began at a meeting in Mr Edward Deas-Thompson’s home. His house was named ‘Riccaroon’. It’s now part of Meriden School. He was the son of Sir Edward Deas-Thomson. Sir Edward was a former Colonial Secretary. He also chaired the Australian Jockey Club.
Plans moved quickly. On May 3 1885 a small weatherboard Church appeared. It stood on the corner of Vernon and Brunswick Streets. The district became a parish. Rev Herbert Rose became Rector in December 1885. By 1889 the first Rectory was built. The Church in Vernon St was enlarged. It was also beautified.
As Strathfield’s population grew, bigger premises became necessary. In 1892 the present site was bought. It’s located on the corner of Beresford and Homebush Roads. Funds came from the sale of the Vernon St Church. The new church was designed by Sulman & Power. John Robson built it. John Sulman once lived in Strathfield. He also designed the Strathfield Council Chambers in 1887. Sulman partnered with Joseph Porter Power from 1889 to 1908.
St Anne’s is an English-style church. Notice the dichromatic brickwork. Admire the steep, pitched slate roof. The design features pointed arch windows. Circular windows and a clock tower are other highlights. Stone tracery adds to its beauty. The lychgate at the corner is rare. Such gates are more common in English Churches.
The Earl of Jersey laid St Anne’s foundation stone on August 25 1892. He was the Governor of New South Wales. The first part of the Church was finished and dedicated in 1893. Parishioners raised funds for the construction. By 1902 the nave was complete. An organ was installed. Sulman and Power also directed the addition of the Chancel in 1914. The Archbishop of Sydney dedicated it on December 21 1914. The Parish Hall and Church school were added around this time. The Parish Hall was enlarged in 1952.
In 1922 Strathfield Council approved plans for the current Rectory. It’s a bungalow style on Homebush Road. It cost £2500. Ernest Dawes of Homebush was the builder. The former Rectory in Vernon St was sold to pay for it.
St Anne’s is one of Strathfield’s most beautiful Churches. Its interiors feature furnishings dedicated by parishioners. These items span the last century. The Altar and five stained glass windows stand out. The west window shows the Annunciation. It also depicts the Presentation in the Temple. Mr Alfred Houston donated these around 1892-3. Altar hangings and vestry furniture are also noteworthy. The lectern, prayer desk and War memorials add to the Church’s significance.
The real lifeblood of St Anne’s Church is its volunteers. They make everything happen. They are supported by a ministry team of paid and honorary staff.
Today St Anne’s stands not just as a building. It stands as a symbol of community. It is located within walking distance of Strathfield and Homebush railway stations. It is a testament to faith. Take a moment to appreciate the history held within these walls. Consider the many hands that shaped this sacred place.