Consider this a journey through time at St Matthias Old Church. This Poplar landmark whispers tales of London’s maritime past. It stands as a testament to faith and community. Today, we explore its fascinating history. We uncover the layers of stories embedded within its brick walls.
St Matthias Old Church began its life in 1654. The East India Company built it as Poplar Chapel. This was a place of worship for its employees and retired seamen. Imagine sailors gathering here. They sought blessings before embarking on perilous voyages. This chapel, a beacon of hope, witnessed countless farewells.
This building is special. St Matthias is one of the few churches built during the Commonwealth period. This was a time when England was a republic. Oliver Cromwell ruled instead of a king. Its very existence speaks of resilience. It shows the enduring power of faith during turbulent times.
Look at the architecture of St Matthias. You may notice a unique blend of styles. Classical and Gothic elements combine. Stone quoins adorn the corners of the brick building. Inside, Tuscan columns support the barrel-vaulted roof. These features give it a distinctive character. Some say the architecture has a Dutch flavour. It reminds one of Hendrick de Keyser’s churches in Amsterdam.
Over the centuries, St Matthias Old Church has seen many changes. In 1718, a tower was added. Later, in 1733, a triple-decker pulpit was installed. Extensive repairs happened in the late 1700s. Richard Jupp was the architect of those repairs. In the 19th century, John Flaxman created a mural monument to George Steevens.
St Matthias played a vital role in the lives of seamen. It served as the chapel for the adjacent almshouses. These almshouses were home to retired East India Company seamen. Officers lived near the East India Dock Road. Other ranks resided on Poplar High Street. Between 1841 and 1844, eight Asian sailors were buried in the churchyard.
After the Indian Rebellion of 1857, the East India Company was dissolved. Poplar Chapel became St Matthias. It then became a Church of England parish church. William Milford Teulon oversaw substantial changes. A new pulpit, font, and organ were added. The building was clad in Kentish ragstone. A chancel, vestry, and organ chamber were constructed.
Stained glass windows were installed in 1920. They served as a memorial to Freemasons who died in World War I. These windows incorporate masonic imagery. Poplar was heavily bombed during World War II. However, St Matthias survived. Only shrapnel shards were lodged in its walls.
In the 1970s, St Matthias merged with St Anne’s, Limehouse. St Matthias was thriving. However, St Anne’s had a more prestigious building. The congregation of St Matthias moved to Limehouse. St Matthias’ building was deconsecrated in 1977.
After years of neglect, English Heritage and the London Docklands Development Corporation stepped in. They restored the church in 1990. The agreement was to use it as an “Arts Centre.” Today, the St Matthias Conservation Trust preserves the building. It serves as a community center.
Many notable people are buried at St Matthias. Robert Ainsworth, Mary East and John Perry rest here. Also resting here are John Stock and George Green. Their presence adds to the rich tapestry of St Matthias’ history.
St Matthias Old Church stands as a symbol of Poplar’s past. It is a testament to its enduring spirit. From its origins as a chapel for seafarers to its current role as a community center. St Matthias continues to serve the people of Poplar. It offers a space for reflection, gathering, and remembrance. Its story reminds us of the power of community. It shows how buildings can evolve to meet the changing needs of society.