Congregational Chuch, Claremont

Foundation stone of original church was laid by Mrs J E Richardson, an active member of the congregation, 25 Sept, 1895. This was the first 'free' church in Claremont, the Methodist and Presbyterian churches being built subsequently. The original building became the church hall when newer church was built next door on corner of John Street and Stirling Highway . Foundation stone of second church laid by Admiral Sir G D Bedford, Governor of WA on 4 April, 1906. The Pipe Organ was largely donated by Sydney Stubbs.The property was sold in 1977 to Graeme Robertson on the formation of the Uniting Church, combining Congregational, Methodist and Presbyterian faiths, and centred in the former Presbyterian Church (cnr Princess and Chester Roads). Church became an antique gallery and hall a ceramic tile showroom. G. Robertson subsequently converted Church to a "Wedding Chapel" and other buildings to offices for his development company. The church then became a floor rug showroom and currently (2000) it is an art gallery and the hall contains offices of Robertson and Prendergast. A 2 storeyed extension is being added to rear.