Holy Trinity Cathedral — New Westminster, BC - This Old Church on Waymarking.com

Holy Trinity Cathedral, constructed between 1899 and 1901, is a prominent example of Gothic Revival architecture and a defining landmark in the historic heart of New Westminster, British Columbia. Designed by architect George William Grant, the cathedral was built following the Great Fire of 1898, which devastated much of the city’s downtown and destroyed the previous church building on this site. Grant, who played a central role in rebuilding New Westminster, created a design that embodied both permanence and spiritual grandeur, reflecting the cathedral’s role as the seat of the Anglican Diocese of New Westminster.

The building features many hallmarks of the Gothic Revival style, including steeply pitched gabled roofs, pointed-arch windows, and buttressed stone walls. One of the most striking elements is the offset bell tower, capped with a crenellated parapet that adds a castellated silhouette to the city skyline. The church’s construction utilized local stone and brick, lending it a sense of solidity and resilience that echoed the city’s determination to rebuild after disaster.

Inside, the cathedral maintains much of its original character and craftsmanship. The nave is framed by high vaulted ceilings and dark-stained woodwork, creating a warm and reverent atmosphere. The sanctuary is adorned with a traditional altar and carved reredos, while richly coloured art glass windows filter natural light into the space, illuminating scenes of Christian iconography. These windows were created by Henry Bloomfield and Sons, a prominent New Westminster firm known for their ecclesiastical glasswork. The interior design was influenced by St. Paul’s Church in Kensington, London, lending the space a distinctly Anglican aesthetic rooted in English church tradition.

Although the building is over 120 years old, it remains an active centre of worship, community life, and cultural heritage. The congregation, which traces its roots to the mid-19th century, continues to gather here for weekly services and special liturgical events. The cathedral has also served as a venue for diocesan synods, ordinations, and civic ceremonies, reinforcing its place in both religious and public life.

Date the Church was built, dedicated or cornerstone laid: 01/01/1899 Age of Church building determined by?: Historical Society If denomination of Church is not part of the name, please provide it here: Anglican If Church holds a weekly worship service and "all are welcome", please give the day of the week: Sunday Indicate the time that the primary worship service is held. List only one: 10:00 AM Street address of Church: 514 Carnarvon Street New Westminster, BC Canada Primary website for Church or Historic Church Building: [Web Link] Secondary Website for Church or Historic Church Building: [Web Link] If Church is open to the public, please indicate hours: Not listed

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