As you're walking along, keep your eyes peeled to your left and look for a striking mix of red and cream-colored stonework with a prominent clock tower - that's St John's Church. The church is set amidst some lush greenery, adding a welcoming touch to this grand piece of history.
Now, about St John's, let me take you on a little time journey. St John's Church is the oldest in Launceston, with its construction starting way back in 1824. Imagine the early settlers rolling up their sleeves and getting to work on what would become one of the oldest surviving churches in all of Australia! Though it's had its fair share of facelifts over the years, the tower and the first pair of windows in the nave remain as original as a vinyl record collection.
Perched at the corner of St John Street and Elizabeth Street, St John's is like the elder statesman among the five churches facing Prince's Square. Here's a fun fact: the church bell was cast by the Whitechapel Bell Foundry in London. Fancy that, a piece of London ringing through Launceston!
Oh, and let's not forget Thomas Sharp, the church's organist from 1857 to 1875. Imagine those Sunday services with Sharp playing, it must have been quite the melodic treat! Enjoy your visit and feel the echoes of history as you explore!
