Gulgong Wooden Catholic Church (1871-1885)

Photo: Holtermann collection

Despite the wealth generated by alluvial gold mining, few buildings in Gulgong were substantial. According to the Australian Town and Country Journal, 27 January 1872: 'The buildings are all composed of wood, calico, or bark, presenting strange contrasts by the variety of colours and designs. The finest building is certainly the new Roman Catholic Church just completed, and reflecting great credit on that congregation. 'The building cost £700, which was raised by the Reverend JO Donovan and ‘his energetic parishioners’ in a few weeks.

Ref:  State Library’s Holtermann archive - http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/events/exhibitions/2013/holtermann/collectionviewer/index.html