Terang, VIC - Thomson Memorial Presbyterian
Year Built: 1890
Denomination: Presbyterian
Address: High Street, Terang, Victoria, 3264
Architect: Reed, Smart & Tappin
Traditional Owners: Eastern Maar people
Last Updated: 19/04/2023
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History and Architecture:
The Church was designed by Reed, Smart & Tappin as a memorial to John Thomson, of 'Keilambete', who was killed in 1890 after engaging the architects.
John Thomson squatted on Lake Keilambete (6 km north-west of Terang) in 1840. He is said to have built the first brick house in the district, was appointed a magistrate in 1840 and was also a founder of the first church in Terang, erected by the Bible Christian denomination in 1863.
Dedicated as his memorial in 1894, the building includes a clerestoried nave, with aisles, transepts, a semicircular apse housing a vestry and an arresting tower and spire, of French character. The building remains exceptionally intact and incorporates fine furnishings in Kauri, leadlight windows and original light fittings.
Clergy:
These names are now in the Database and can be searched individually.
| Years | Name | Annotation | D.o.B | D.o.D |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1858 - 1868 | Rev R M Wilson | |||
| 1870 - 1914 | Rev Samuel Fraser | |||
| 1914 - 1928 | Rev E. M Baird | |||
| 1928 - 1941 | Rev J P Hamilton | |||
| 1941 - 1948 | Rev H Clarke MC | |||
| 1949 - 1953 | Rev S J. Higginbottom | |||
| 1954 - | Rev Stanley Thompson | |||
| 2016 - | Rev Peter Philips |
Organ:
The organ was built by the Melbourne organ builder William Anderson and installed in 1879 at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Kew. The instrument was extensively rebuilt and overhauled by George Fincham & Son and installed at Terang in 1902. It has 2m., 14 sp. st., 3c., tr.
For a full description and photos click here.
Source:
1. Organ Historical Trust of Australia with permission.