Friday, February 17, 2012

Historic Landmark Gets New Roof


St. Andrew's United Church Nanaimo

St. Andrew's United Chuch which was built in 1893 has been showing it's age lately and while a few years ago new paint was applied to the outside woodwork, this year a new roof is in the plans.

The city of Nanaimo recently awarded a $10,000 grant under the heritage facade grants program to help the congregation with the $95,000 project. This is truly a heritage treasure in Nanaimo which I am told has acoustics that few modern buildings enjoy. I presume that is what was needed so everyone could hear the sermon in the days before modern sound systems.

The old church has also been a popular location for weddings, even for non-congregation members as it certainly has some heritage charm to it not found in these new modern day places of worship, where the pipe organ has been replaced by a rock band and the preachers smock by blue jeans and open shirt.

I understand that at one time the United Church came on the scene because different faiths in town would sometimes settle their theological differences with fist fights in the parking lot. Of course that is just unsubstantiated rumor, but seems believable considering some of the history of the Christian church.

allvoices

2 comments:

  1. What makes old churches extra-special is its rich history. Preserving these historic structures is one way to preserve a portion of local history. I've never been to St. Andrew's United Church, but I would like to visit it one of these days. I hope everything goes well with the replacement of its roof.

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  2. St. Andrews United Church Nanaimo was well-preserved. The church was constructed in yellow sandstone and brick. It was originally built with slate roof. I wonder what kind of roof they’re planning to replace it this time.

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