Big milestone for Lockwood churches

TWO historic buildings in Lockwood are being celebrated, as locals reflect on their importance to the region.

The former St Stephen’s Anglican Church and the Wesleyan Church, which currently houses Lockwood Uniting, were both completed in 1872.

Church member Sue Bewsell has been working hard to uncover the history of the places of worship and the stories of those connected to them, with her book A Living History to be launched at an upcoming celebration.

“Both big, brick, church buildings were built in 1872 but both churches are older than that; St Stephens started in 1860 and our church started in a tent in 1854,” she said.

“Initially we found a couple of ledger books hiding in the back of the church and one of them dates from 1854, so that gave me a reference point.

“I could know the when, the who and the what, but tantalisingly I can’t find out the whys. It takes us from 1854 to the 1870s and the next ledger book started in 1902 and takes us to 1972.

Ms Bewsell said she wrote the book from the perspective of someone who’s come to Lockwood and has no idea of the history of the locality.

“We had a racecourse, hotels, churches and schools; it was a big place with lots of people,” she said.

Lockwood Uniting Church is inviting all members of the community and beyond to view history displays and take part in a commemorative service on Sunday, 15 May from 1.30pm to 3.30pm at 813 Calder Alternative Highway, Lockwood South.