St Stephen's Church (Lepperton)

St Stephen's Church in Lepperton was erected in 1878. The small Methodist church was built by local builders Benjamin and George Hall.

It was located on the corner of Richmond and Manutahi Roads (section 69).

As attendance fell and maintenance costs increased in the 1960s and early 1970s it was decided to close the church. A final special commemorative service took place on 8 April, 1973.

It was given to local historian Mr Fred Butler who moved it to his Sentry Hill property in August 1973. His plan to convert it into a museum did not happen and eventually it was demolished.

For more information see pages 75-76 of Peter Wilson's book on the history of Lepperton, Sentry Hill and Waiongona, "Even the dogs have forgotten to bark" (TRCT993.482 WIL).

Related documents:

Church to close (Taranaki Herald 28 March 1973)

Final service (Daily News 9 April 1973)

Church for Butler museum (Taranaki Herald 30 July 1973)