Salway Evangelical Church

On a quiet corner in Woodford, where Salway Hill meets Forest Approach, stands the Salway Evangelical Church. Have you ever noticed this unassuming building? It holds a fascinating story, deeply woven into the fabric of this community. Salway Evangelical Church wasn’t always here. This land once held a grand house, Salway House, named after the prominent Salway family. Richard Salway, a merchant and director of the Bank of England, was the last of his family to reside in the nearby Salway Lodge. His death in 1775 marked the end of an era. Later, Salway House became the home of Sir John Roberts, a philanthropist who gifted Woodford its Jubilee Hospital, Working Men’s Club, and Memorial Hall. After his death in 1917, the house was purchased by a Mr. Lusty. Upon Mr. Lusty’s death in 1930, Salway House met its end. Sir John Laing, the builder developing the surrounding Laing Estate, acquired the property. A devout Christian, he saw a greater purpose for this land. He decided to demolish the house and dedicate the plot to a new church for the burgeoning community. The church, initially named Salway Hall, opened its doors on December 31, 1932. The opening service featured five speakers, a testament to the community’s anticipation. During World War II, despite many members being called up, services continued, sometimes even in the basement rooms. A small bomb fell near the entrance in 1943, causing minimal damage. In the early days, hymns were sung unaccompanied. In 1955, a large organ, a generous donation from a church member, was squeezed into the building. The church’s commitment to music extended beyond the organ, embracing a variety of instrumentalists. In 1961, the BBC even broadcast a morning service from Salway Hall. Over time, the church underwent several expansions. The Montague Goodman Memorial Hall, named after a founding Elder, was added in 1958. A new kitchen replaced the original one with its charming dumbwaiter in 1977. Further extensions followed in 1982 and 2002, modernizing the space. The church’s name also evolved, becoming Salway Hall Evangelical Church in 1965, and finally Salway Evangelical Church in 1976. Salway Evangelical Church continues to serve its community, much like Sir John Laing envisioned. It’s a place of worship, community outreach, and a living testament to the enduring power of faith. As you stand before Salway Evangelical Church today, remember the layers of history beneath your feet. It’s a story of families, philanthropy, and a commitment to faith that continues to resonate within these walls.