The Deputy Warden at St. George’s Chapel may be a bit more forgiving than most after discovering the historic church in Gore’s Landing had been vandalized recently.
Michael Davis came to the church on Tuesday (October 24, 2023) just to check on something.
When he walked in to St. George’s Chapel located on Church Hill Road overlooking beautiful Rice Lake he, “discovered the absolute mess that had been left.”
At least one person, more likely at least two entered the church which was built in 1908.
Stones gathered from nearby fields by the men of the church helped to keep down the cost of rebuilding. Its gothic design is based on that made by Architect, J. A. Ellis.
“It could have been much worse. A lot of it is not structural. A lot of it just needs a really good cleaning.”
There is glass everywhere in the kitchen area below the main floor when perpetrator’s broke in and smashed every cup in the cupboard, put a knitting needle through a picture of Queen Elizabeth II and even smashed a memorial that was by the headstones in the graveyard.
Davis said they will be having a clean-up day at some point in the near future for those in the area that want to help.
“I’m mainly disappointed. There is no reason for this.”
Davis said St. George’s Chapel like any religious building is part of the community. And as word spread, so did the anger.
“A lot of the damage is wanton destruction for no purpose whatsoever.”
Damage in the church was mainly confined to the front area where the alter was pushed over, damage to the organ, cleaning oil was thrown over an area that included a bible.
“The one area that was smashed and we have not found yet were some of our historical artifacts.”
The original trowel from the dedication of the building, a historic communion set.
From a monetary value, Davis said it’s not worth much, but from a historic value, “we would love to have those back if anyone sees those around.”
Davis has a message to the individuals who may possibly still have the items.
“If you’ve still got the stuff, bring it back and put it on the porch.”
Summing it up best Davis says, “it was destruction for the sake of destruction – it’s really sad.”
Northumberland OPP were called, but chalked the damage up to mischief.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
