Exploring St. Paul's Presbyterian Church
I have been filming at several locations for an upcoming series called Memento Mori Explorations and have visited some really amazing sites! This is one that I am so in love with, I couldn't resist on sharing the photos. Sitting in the middle of the heavy development that is happening in downtown Hamilton, this gorgeous church still stands as a testament of the city's early years!
St. Paul's Presbyterian Church was built in 1855 with Neo-Gothic and Neo-Classical architecture. It features 22 handmade stain glass windows, a 180 foot tall stone spire (largest stone spire in Canada), 11 bell chimes and a balcony made entirely of oak. It truly is a sight to behold!
Exterior Photos:
The bell hanging in the belfry of the Sunday School building was the original town bell in Hamilton and rang for the first time in 1834. It was moved from the 180 foot stone spire to its new home in 1906 with the 10 other chimes.. These bells are played every Sunday morning to call the congregation in to worship, and sound quite beautiful!
At the south-east corner of the church there is a large Celtic Cross, known as The Cross of Sacrifice. It was carved in Scotland and placed at the church in 1921 to commemorate those of the congregation who have fallen in battle. Near Remembrance Day you will find wreaths and poppies at the base of the cross, another tradition to commemorate the fallen.
The exterior of the church is amazing but to me the true beauty of the building is in the interior.
Interior Photos:
This is one of the most stunning Victorian Gothic buildings that I have had the pleasure of seeing in person! I cannot wait to share the video tour!