Baptist City Tabernacle, Baptist church on Wickham Terrace in Spring Hill, Brisbane, Australia
Baptist City Tabernacle is a four-storied church building with a tower topped by a cupola, featuring cement-rendered brick walls and geometric patterned leadlight windows throughout. The interior has cedar pews arranged in a semicircular layout facing the pulpit and organ within a tall double-height worship space.
The building was designed by Richard Gailey and constructed between 1889 and 1890, then dedicated by Reverend William Whale. It served as home to Brisbane's first Baptist congregation and later housed a theological college within its tower.
The name reflects its role as a gathering place where the congregation has assembled for generations. The way people use and experience the space continues to shape its character today.
The building is accessible for visits during various times, though it is an active place of worship. It is best to check ahead for service times or special events to ensure you can enter and explore the interior comfortably.
The school rooms in the basement led to the founding of present-day Somerville House, a major educational institution. This unexpected educational legacy shows how the place extended its influence beyond its original purpose.
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