Hanson-Allen Family

St. Stephen's Church, Marton, NZ

(Architect: George Frederic Allen)

St. Stephen's Church, Marton, NZ, is said to have been modelled on Salisbury Cathedral, England, however, it is not too easy to form conclusions on this based on the on the information and photos available. The several seemingly relevant photos of Salisbury Cathedral have been copied from that church's website for use as examples. There is, naturally, a vast difference between an 1871-2 wooden church in a small rural town in New Zealand, and a very large stone cathedral, in Salisbury, Wiltshire, England, that was built in the 1200s. Perhaps some noteworthy parts, such as a central spire, were supposed to be added later, but instead the separate bell tower was added.

These three photos show Salisbury Cathedral. The external view, at best, shows a shared cross-shaped layout, although this is nothing out of the ordinary. The interior views seem a little more familiar, but more research would be required (and more photos) to see where the associations actually are, although the extensive use of arches in both cases is clear. The centre photo is described as the view from the crossing looking toward the Quire and the High Altar beyond. The copyright on these photos is help by Pitkin Guides Ltd., however, hopefully they will see some virtue in using them here.

Interior views of St. Stephens, Marton, in early January 2001

St Stephens Church from Maunder Street, with its bell tower on the right.