High on the corner of Beresford and Homebush Roads stands St Anne’s Anglican. Its presence marks a significant chapter in Strathfield’s history. Let’s step back in time to understand its story.
Moves to establish an Anglican Church in Strathfield began in 1884. The first meeting took place at the home of Mr Edward Deas-Thompson. His house was named ‘Riccaroon’ on Redmyre Road. It is now part of Meriden School. He was the son of Sir Edward Deas-Thomson.
Plans moved quickly. On May 3 1885 a small weatherboard church was built. 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 and beautified.
Strathfield’s population grew. Larger premises were needed. In 1892, the present site was acquired. Funds came from the sale of the Vernon St church. The new church was designed by Sulman & Power. John Sulman once lived in Strathfield. He also designed the Strathfield Council Chambers in 1887.
St Anne’s is designed in the English style. It features dichromatic brickwork. A steep pitched slate roof crowns the building. Pointed arch windows and circular windows add to its charm. A clock tower and stone tracery complete the look. The lychgate is rare in Strathfield. It is a typical feature in many English Churches.
The Governor of New South Wales, the Earl of Jersey, laid the foundation stone. This was on August 25 1892. The first part of the church was completed and dedicated in 1893. Parishioners raised funds for construction. By 1902, the nave was complete. An organ was installed.
The Chancel was added in 1914. The Most Rev. John Charles Wright dedicated it. He was the Archbishop of Sydney. The Parish Hall was enlarged in 1952. The Church school was added during this time.
In 1922, plans were approved for the current rectory. It is a bungalow style house on Homebush Road. It cost £2500. Ernest Dawes of Homebush was the builder. The former Rectory in Vernon St was sold to pay for the new rectory.
St Anne’s interiors feature furnishings and items. Parishioners have dedicated these over the last century. The altar and five stained glass windows stand out. Mr Alfred Houston donated the west window around 1892-3. It depicts the Annunciation and the Presentation in the Temple. Altar hangings, vestry furniture, a lectern, a prayer desk and war memorials also adorn the church.
Today, St Anne’s continues to serve its community. It offers home groups for Bible study and fellowship. These groups create a strong sense of community. They provide support and practical caring. St Anne’s stands as a testament to faith. It reflects the enduring spirit of its parishioners. It has stood on this corner for over a century. It will continue to stand as a beacon of hope.