St. Bartholomew's Chapel, Perth

Saint Bartholomew's Chapel in Perth stands as a significant architectural and historical landmark, reflecting the evolving needs and spirit of its community over the years. Originally constructed in 1848 as a mortuary chapel, it was later expanded in 1871 through the designs of colonial architect Richard Roach Jewell. This expansion transformed it into a parish church, consecrated by Mathew Blagden Hale, the first Bishop of Perth. The church, built in the Gothic style, is noted for its simple colonial gothic aesthetics, characterized by brick construction and a steeply sloping shingle roof.

The chapel is located on the land owned by East Perth Cemeteries, making it a site of significant historical and memorial importance, highlighted by its memorials and monuments. Over the years, it has been the center of many social gatherings, playing a vital role in the community's spiritual and social life.

Significant milestones in the chapel's history include further extensions in 1900, which saw the enlargement of the sanctuary and nave, consecrated by Charles Owen Leaver Riley, the third Bishop of Perth. These adaptations not only catered to the growing needs of the parish but also underscored the chapel's architectural evolution.

Despite a period of dormancy starting in 1963 when it ceased functioning as a parish church, Saint Bartholomew's was refurbished in 1954 and again underwent a total renovation in 1976, signaling its resilience and the community's commitment to preserving its heritage. Church services recommenced in November 2002, and continue to be held on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th Saturdays of each month, reinstating the chapel's role as a place of worship and community gathering.