When the First World War ended the congregation considered that a more permanent and worthier structure of a new Church (our present St Mark's) was necessary. But as building costs were high the project was postponed.
In 1922, however, the scheme was reconsidered and the erection of the new Church became possible. Mr Stucke, the architect had studied the architecture of churches in Scotland and he modeled the new Church on these lines. The Reverend David Hunter, who was inducted in 1907, had the casting vote to place the choir and organ at the back of the church in order that the Apse, with the beautiful Communion Table and Elders’ chairs would be the focal point. (He was of the opinion that the hats of the choristers would distract the congregation)
The cost of the building was 4,450 pounds, the heating by means of a hot-water system - 300 pounds and the outlay for the furniture 2,100 pounds. But it was harder to raise money for a really good pipe organ. Skilled organ builders had gone over to the making of aeorplanes. Eventually Rev Hunter dedicated the magnificent pipe organ on the 31st of May 1925.
The foundation stone was laid in September 1922 and work progressed steadily until the dedication in May 1923. (the late John Nixon’s father was responsible for overseeing the building construction. John would go out on his bicycle before school every morning, count the number of stones laid the previous day and give his father a progress report.)
The name of St Mark’s was selected for this new Church, with the symbol of the Winged lion.
Extracted from BUILT ON GOLD – A Short History of St Marks Presbyterian Church, Yeoville, Johannesburg by Mrs. Dorothy Land.
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