2-982-318 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

New Church of St. Matthias, on Richmond-Hill, 1858. 'The new church is advantageously situated on the outskirts of the town, and forms a striking object far and near in the landscape. The general effect of the exterior will be gained by an inspection of the accompanying Illustration, which is taken from the north-east. The walls are of Kentish rag, with dressings of white stone, and the roofs are covered with Bangor slates. The style adopted is the Geometrical Pointed, but it is by no means lavish in ornament, for, with the exception of the west front, the effect of the design depends chiefly upon the boldness of its parts...Mr. Gilbert Scott, of Spring-gardens, is the architect; and the builders are Messrs. Piper and Son, of Bishopsgate-street. The cost of the building and fittings up to the present time has been about £9000, which has been raised entirely by voluntary subscriptions - the sum of £1500 being required to complete the beautiful tower and spire, which have for the present been left unfinished, but will be proceeded with forthwith'. From "Illustrated London News", 1858.