THE FIRST CHURCH.

Evening Star, Issue 2815, 26 February 1872, Page 2

THE FIRST CHURCH.

To the Editor. Sik, —Although not resident in Dunedin, [ take great interest in its progress, and am. much pleased to see the magnificent structure on Bell Hill once more under way. It is said, however, that the plan on which this building is being constructed, is not altogether satisfactory, and although I should be sorry to cast any reflection upon the professional skill of the architect, with whom personally I am unacquainted, it behoves those who have the control of this m itter to see that safety is not sacrificed to tas c. _ It is said that the original plan which p ovided for the roof being internally supported, has been departed from, and that it is now proposed that a heavy slated roof of some eighty feet span is to rest solely upon the external walls, eighteen in lies thick. Knowing the force of the gales which occasionally sweep across Bell Hill, I can scarcely think that my information cin be correct—hut if it be so—let us hope that the building and its inmates may not share the fate of the temple of Dagon of old—no doubt this would effectually settle the differences which have unhappily disturbed the paace of the First Church. I W'o'ild venture to suggest that before proceeding further there should be associated with the architect ti committee of other competent professional men, expressly to enquire info—and report upon—the safety of the proposed plan. We have had evidence in this very building of what happen, m the case of tlie pinnacle of the tower, which was blown down during a heavy gale some months ago, and in my humble judgment, too many precautions cannot be taken in oider to guard against a similar catastrophe in the case of the roof. I trust that their attention being called to this ma'te the authorities of the Church will pc i well to it — that a building which does them so much credit may not yet bring them disaster and disgrace. This is due not only to themselves, but to the whole community—the more especially seeing that the funds at their disposal are in a manner public funds belonging to the original Otago land purchasers. l am, &c., A Very Old Idenditv.