Dating of this image can be very definite. George Hebditch (building contractor) moved to Loftus in 1906. He first built the Congregational church at the bottom of Westfield Terrace. The church is clearly visible in the image with the scaffolding still in place and the outdoor pulpit not yet constructed. Researches have produced the following detail: ”In October 1904, a start was made to raise funds for a new building on a prominent site in the centre of the town. Foundation stones were laid in April, 1906 and opened for public worship on December 6th 1906. The total cost of the premises was £2,100, of all but £600 had been raised by June 1907”.
Image courtesy of Mike & Carol; additional dating information courtesy of postcard ”Congregational Church and Minister, Loftus in Cleveland”.
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