In 1799 the Legislative Council passed an Act to build a Church in the “East”. The St Matthew’s Church was built by Joseph Eve with the foundation laid in 1800. The seating capacity of the Church was four hundred and fifty and during the early years of the church, the congregation consisted of in habitants living in the east and those migrating from the Family Islands.
The windows were designed in the early Roman style and were strategically placed to take advantage of the breeze from the northern side. The windows and the interior were painted a light sage green. Two columns supported the semi-circular arches of the roof.
The steeple was erected in 1816. On March 26, 1857, St. Matthew’s was struck by lightning, which damaged the roof of the steeple; the walls were cracked and a number of the glass windows were shattered. In 1887 the Chancel was consecrated.
In 1918 the roof and ceiling had become very dangerous and the Vestry felt that repairs could not be delayed any longer. Along with extensive renovations, a new organ was bought. The Chancel was enlarged by a stone platform built out into the church towards the east (High Altar) and bounded by a low stone wall at the corner on which has been built an admirable stone pulpit – the first of it’s kind. In addition to the Chancel, the Choir Stalls were removed from the southern portion of the church and a side chapel (Our Lady’s Chapel) was erected.
The altar was also beautifully decorated with gold leaves around the top. A magnificent cross and a pair of candlesticks were on the altar, the pews were stained. The Vestry was also newly fitted for the proper keeping of various articles of worship including the Church books.
Stamp Releases
1978 – Architectural Heritage – 8c St Matthew’s Church
