Hamilton, VIC - St Mary's Catholic

History and Architecture:

In the early days Hamilton was part of the Portland Parish and hence Ministers came from there. The first Mass was held on 22 May 1848 by Father Kavanagh.

The first part of the Church to be opened was conducted on 12 August 1866. The work commenced by Father Kavanagh was completed by the laying of a memorial stone on 30 May 1900 by Bishop Moore. The Church spire was erected in 1914.

A memorial stone reads, " This memorial stone was laid 18th Dec 1907 by David Laidlaw Esq J.P. representing original stone laid by William Skene Esq 21st Oct 1857". A further Foundation stone reads, " This Foundation stone was laid by James Thomson Esq Clegg & Miller Architects E.M. Tuxen Contractors".

A Foundation stone reads, "St Mary's Church was blessed & opened on 12th August 1866. To commemorate the 150th Anniversary of our Church building, this plaque was blessed by THE MOST REV. PAUL BIRD CSsR DD Bishop of Ballarat on 14th August 2016. We give thanks for the dedication and great service given by so many parishioners since 1866, in meeting the spiritual and pastoral needs of our district".