David Thomas Memorial Church, Bristol

Image: © Eirian Evans Taken: 16 Feb 2011

Even though no longer a functioning church, the prominent spire remains as a visible memorial to the Rev David Thomas. Born in Merthyr Tydfil 1811, he became pastor of Zion Chapel Bedminster. Later, for more than 31 years, he was the well-known and respected preacher at Highbury Chapel in Cotham. He died in 1875. A new Congregational Church in the Bishopston area was named in his memory. For over a hundred years this was a place of worship, as well as a centre of social activities. Due to the decline in the size of the congregation plus the increase in upkeep costs it was decided to close the building as a church in 1981. After a while the Churches Housing Association took over the site as housing for the elderly, the hall was demolished, but the spire and west front of the church were retained and 29 flats over 5 storeys were built surrounded by a landscaped garden on three sides. David Thomas House opened in 1987. (from Bristol Information.co.uk)

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