Spring meeting 2008 - Pembroke Dock

Over 40 members of the Society attended the Spring meeting at Pembroke Dock on Saturday 10th May. A warm welcome was extended by the members of St Andrew's Presbyterian Church. Mr Julian Orbach gave a most interesting talk about the history of Pembroke Dock. The development of the Royal Dockyard over 100 years

Interior Zion Free Church Click for a larger image

was outlined together with the advances in building techniques used. He explained that the Dockyard and Town was the greatest monument of military architecture in Wales. The town also boasts some very fine examples of Chapel architecture. St Andrew's is a buiding worthy of the town, constructed of the best materials and with a striking front in, at the time, the very latest Venetian Gothic style.

It was sad to learn that Bethel Baptist Chapel in Bush Street can no longer be used due to problems with the roof, with the church holding its services in the vestry. The cost of maintaining large chapel buidings is a problem in all parts of Wales.

Stained glass St Andrew's Click for a larger image

Two chapels higher up the town were visited namely Bethany Baptist Chapel, High Street and Trinity United Reformed Chapel, Meyrick Street. Mr Julian Orbach together with Mr Robert Scourfield drew attention to interesting architectural features to be seen in both buildings.

The day came to an end at Zion Free Church in Meyrick Street where the Rev Hugh Michael spoke about the history of the Church and the remarkable role he played in rescuing the building from oblivion. Zion is one of the largest chapels in Wales but additionally also has a particularly fine interior and a superb pulpit.

Altogether a very interesting and enjoyable day.