Southampton boasts some of the most historic churches in the area and, on Saturday October 14th, the first annual ‘Walking Tour’ was held to explore them.
It was ‘open doors’ for visitors to learn more about the history of St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Southampton United Church, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church and St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church. Each is different but with several similarities that include exquisite stained glass windows, beautiful intricate woodworking and architecture.
St. Paul’s Anglican Church
St. Paul’s at the corner of High and Victoria Streets celebrated 160 years in 2019. Inside the vaulted ceiling resembles the ribs of a sailing ship from an earlier time and stained glass windows line the walls.
For larger view, Click on Image
St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Southampton is the sister church of St. Joseph’s in Port Elgin.
Southampton United Church
Although historic, Southampton United is active in the community. With its grand piano and magnificent acoustics, it hosts many concerts while downstairs is the Green Boutique thrift shop.
St. Andrew’s Presybterian Church
“St. Andrew’s, is the oldest actively used church building in Southampton. Clad in local buff brick, it is a fine example of Gothic Revival Style, featuring a rectangular form with a pitched roof and centre gable, paired lancet windows, and a large Gothic arch window on the façade. The property is intricately linked to the pioneer settlement of Southampton and to the establishment of the Presbyterian Church in the immediate community, and within the County of Bruce.” (from Apr. 19/23 delegation to Council– full history with photos.)
During the open house, several artifacts were displayed including hand-written minutes from the 1800s, a silver chalice, and a cracked and well-worn leather clad Bible.
The first Open House of Churches proved to be of interest to many as they strolled through the historic buildings and, in some, stopping for a hot beverage and home-baking.
