Look closely at this magnificent spire. The Parish Church of Saint Stephen South Dulwich stands before you a testament to Victorian Gothic architecture. It wasn’t always this way.
In 1868 South Dulwich was sparsely populated. A few farms and villas dotted the landscape. Then came the Crystal Palace. Its construction and the arrival of the railway transformed the area. Suddenly this quiet corner of Surrey boomed. More people meant a need for a church. The Parish Church of Saint Stephen South Dulwich was commissioned to meet that need.
Sir Charles Barry Jr designed this beautiful neo-Gothic structure. He was the son of the architect who designed the Houses of Parliament. The church boasts a seating capacity of seven hundred. Private subscriptions funded its construction. The fresco in the chancel depicts the trial and martyrdom of St Stephen. Sir Edward Poynter a renowned artist created this masterpiece.
In 1870 just two years after its consecration the famous French Impressionist Camille Pissarro painted the church. His work captured its beauty its landmark spire. The church was richly decorated in the style of Pugin and Ruskin. A contemporary painting possibly by Barry himself shows this.
World War II brought destruction. V1 flying bombs damaged the church. The walls began to lean. The roof almost lifted off. A young builder saved the day. He used jacks to gently squeeze the walls back into place. This was described as a miracle in The Builder magazine. Unobtrusive tie bars now hold the walls together.
The Parish Church of Saint Stephen South Dulwich endured. It was restored several times reflecting the changing needs of its congregation. A new church hall replaced a temporary one built in 1947. A generous legacy allowed the purchase of a grand piano. The church now hosts recordings and piano practices. An appeal is underway for a new pipe organ. The old one is defunct.
The church is more than just a building. It’s a community hub. It has hosted countless services and concerts. It has served its parish for over 150 years. Michael Goodman a longstanding member wrote a history of the church. It details the contributions of parishioners and the church’s relationship with the Dulwich Estate. This story is far from over. The Parish Church of Saint Stephen South Dulwich continues to serve its community. It remains a beacon in South Dulwich.