Was it divine inspiration or a stroke of genius that led to the founding of St Mary of Eton? This Anglican church stands as a testament to faith and community in Hackney Wick. St Mary of Eton is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a symbol of social outreach and architectural beauty.
In the late 19th century, Eton College sought to make a difference. The college launched the Eton Mission in 1880. Its goal was to offer social and religious support to Hackney Wick residents. The mission also aimed to expose privileged schoolboys to the realities of deprived areas. St Mary of Eton became the centrepiece of this mission. It was constructed between 1890 and 1892.
The church’s architecture is the work of George Frederick Bodley and Thomas Garner. They designed St Mary of Eton in the medieval Gothic style. Red brick and stone dressings define its exterior. The east side faces the main street. A gateway welcomes visitors into a courtyard that is surrounded by the old Eton Mission buildings. Eton House, built in 1898, provided housing for the clergy. Later, in 1911-12, Cecil Greenwood Hare added two bays on the west side and the tower was added in 1912.
Inside St Mary of Eton, a tall and spacious nave greets you. A painted rood screen by Bodley bisects the nave. At the east end, the high altar stands. It is backed by an ornate reredos designed in 1930 by W Ellery Anderson.
The church faced adversity during World War II. A bomb struck the Eton Mission in 1944. This caused significant damage. Interior alterations were made in 1958. A new organ by Grant, Degens and Rippin was installed in 1960.
St Mary of Eton holds a unique place in social history. It is the founding location of the Church of England youth club, the 59 Club. This club has a special connection to the rocker culture.
In 2013-14, St Mary of Eton underwent a major refurbishment. The church was re-ordered and restored. Some of the old Eton Mission buildings were redeveloped into residential flats. Some buildings were even demolished. New apartment blocks were built next to the church. These new buildings featured diaper-patterned brickwork. This was to match Bodley’s original design. The development received a RIBA National Award in 2015. This award recognized its sensitive design.
Today, St Mary of Eton continues to serve its community. It is a place of worship. It is a historical landmark. It is an architectural gem. As you leave St Mary of Eton, consider its lasting impact. It is a testament to the power of faith. It is a symbol of community engagement. It is a reminder of the beauty that can arise from combining social purpose with architectural vision.