Curio

State Library of New South Wales
Wooden Catholic Church (1871-1885), Gulgong

Wooden Catholic Church (1871-1885), Gulgong

1872
Glass photonegative

Despite the wealth generated by alluvial gold mining, few buildings in Gulgong were substantial. According to the Australian Town and Country Journal, 27 January 1872:

The buildings are all composed of wood, calico, or bark, presenting strange contrasts by the variety of colours and designs. The finest building is certainly the new Roman Catholic Church just completed, and reflecting great credit on that congregation.

The building cost £700, which was raised by the Reverend JO Donovan and ‘his energetic parishioners’ in a few weeks.

From 'Empire', 18 Nov 1871

The Soiree.-This party in aid of the funds of the Roman Catholic Chapel came off with great éclat on Thursday evening last. It was most generously patronized, and there was a spirit of liberality manifested that is seldom witnessed. In fact there was no appearance of sectarianism... There were six tables presided over by four young ladies each, and were loaded with nice sandwiches; cakes, and tarts, pineapples, oranges, and other fruits, jellies, blancmange, &c. The tea was excellent, and being served by fair hands, bright eyes, and blushing checks, was most acceptable to the large audience. [Empire, 18 Nov 1871, p4]