No. 60 - Launceston - Elizabeth Street Gospel Hall (1939-2013)

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The history of the small Art Deco hall located on Elizabeth Street is not well recorded. It is listed on the Tasmanian Heritage Register which describes it as an example of a “single story brick Inter-War Art Deco style building for religious use”.

A report on its opening appeared in the Examiner in April 1939:

“The Gospel Hall in Elizabeth Street Launceston, was opened during the weekend, when special meetings were held. The first of the series commenced on Friday evening, the hall being well filled. On Saturday afternoon a special opening meeting was conducted, and although preparation had been made for large numbers, it was impossible to find seating accommodation for all present. Mr R. Ernest Smith outlined the growth of the assembly, tracing its history back for over 60 years….” 

The Christian Brethren arrived in Launceston in the 1880s and for many years worshipped at various locations including the Wycliffe Chapel and the old York Street Baptist church. The new Gospel Hall was built by Mr H. Martin at a cost of £1500. It was the first purpose built place of worship constructed by the Brethren in the city. The hall closed in 2013 and was sold in 2014.

This article will be updated when more information comes to hand. 

Photo: Duncan Grant 2018


Photo: Duncan Grant 2018





The Examiner 10 April 1939

Sources:

Examiner, Friday 2 December 1938, page 8
Examiner, Monday 10 April 1939, page 6

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