Church of St John the Baptist, Leytonstone: History and Context

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Church of St John the Baptist, Leytonstone: History and Context

The Church of St John the Baptist in Leytonstone is located in London. According to the Historic
England website, it is listed as a Grade II building.
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Construction and Architectural Style:

The Church was built in the Era of Early English Gothic Revival Approach. Construction

commenced in 1832 and was completed in 1845 It was designed with an architectural style that

was popular in the 19th century, that obtained inspiration from the medieval Gothic architecture

style (Moore, 1899). These designs were characterized by various styles such as lancet windows,

buttresses, and pointed arches.

Original Construction and Layout:

The Church stone foundation stone was laid in 1832 by the famous vicar of Leyton. This marked

the construction commencement process of the building. The original Layout was in a

rectangular footprint, considering Georgian design (Kaffenberger, 2018), the church had a

rectangular base with a dimension of 80 feet in length and 50 feet in width forming a typical

medium-sized Georgian Churches. The Nave and Chancel occupy most of the church building

which was separated from a small chancel area by a chancel arch design. The nave dimensions

were 60 feet in length by 40 feet in width tower. The church has a single, square tower at the

western side end with a dimension of 20 feet by 20 feet base which tapers slightly upward. The

main entrance of the Church was designed at the base of the tower leading into the narthex

before entering into the nave. It has large arched windows that are lined onto the side wall of the

nave to provide natural lighting and ventilation into the Church. It was also characterized by

small windows at the chancel and tower. The most common material used was brick on the

exterior walls and stone-detailed doors and windows. The roof was covered with tiles.
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Figure 1, Ground Land Layout Plan.

Evolution and Modifications of the Church of St John Baptist, Leytonstone:

Historical content indicates changes and adjustments established through the late 19th and early

20th Century suggesting that the church has transformed along the way to suit its needs and the

growing community it serves.

With significant growth in the population of Leytonstone in the 19th century, the church faced

some strain on its original capacity prompting expansion in various areas to give room to more

worshippers. The church underwent the following modifications;

Construction of Aisle

Additional aisles on both sides of the central nave resulted in a significant increase in the

church's seating capacity. The most common solution for expanding the church interior was

adding an Aisle

Development of Vestries

Vestries were added to the church, these were multi-purpose rooms usually utilized to store

religious garments, conduct meetings, and provide the religious clergy with adequate preparation
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for the church services. These additions of vestries showed the importance of more functional

spaces to support the growing church activities and events.

Historical descriptions documented alterations in 1893, 1902, 1910, and 1929 suggesting

numerous changes over several decades. These changes ensured that the church remained

relevant to the ever-changing needs and requirements of the Leytonstone community.

The Enduring Significance of St John the Baptist Church, Leytonstone:

The Church of St John the Baptist located in Leytonstone, London went beyond its role and

functionality as a place of worship. Listed as Grade II indicating its importance which includes

historical, cultural, social, aesthetic, and architectural value (Randall, 2017).

Historical Significance: Church Transformation.

Since 1833, the church has served as a representation of Leytonstone's transformation from a

typical rural village to a modern vibrant suburb. Its construction and changes over time reflect

and represent the dynamic population of the region. Its commitment as an Anglican space within

a growing and expanding population has been crucial. The early establishment of the "Chapel of

Ease" indicated its plan to develop a separate parish which was fulfilled in 1845.

The Church’s Stories Within

Although event documentation may be limited, the church witnessed many baptisms, weddings,

and funerals, marking crucial moments in many residents' lives. The Church served as a place for

community meetings and gatherings, thus providing an ideal space for socializing and shared

experiences other than religious activities.

Aesthetic Appeal:
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The early English Gothic Revival style showcased in this church structure indicates unique and

distinct aesthetic value. This includes buttresses, pointed arches, and lancet windows. This gives

a sense of reverence and historical continuation of medieval religious architecture.

The unique yellow brick and Stone dressing develops a visually attractive exterior, further

improved by the well-placed Western bell tower. This architectural technique goes in hand with

Victorian sensibility giving a familiar yet attractive presence on Leytonstone High Road.

Social and Cultural Hub:

Throughout the existence of the church, it has functioned as a social and cultural place for

Leytonstone residents. It was a key aspect that provided a shared identity and a sense of

belonging, especially those who are actively involved in religious activities and community

events. The presence of a church usually gives a sense of place and contributes to the entire

character and behavior of the neighborhood. The church offered charitable services and

education to the surrounding community residents further showcasing its role as a pillar of the

community.

Craftsmanship and Materials:

The use of Red brick and contrasting stone dressing shows the skilled technicality and

craftsmanship during that period. The excellent quality of the construction works ensured the

church's resilience, durability, and longevity. A closer look shows crucial details for instance

detailed and ideal bricklaying patterns in the stonework activities.

Design: A Harmonious Composition

The Church's architectural designs show a distinct division between the nave, sanctuary, and bell

tower, indicating a typical Christian church layout. This facility layout focuses on the altar area

and promotes hierarchy and order. The building proposition is well-balanced, the bell tower adds
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vertical emphasis and shifts eyes' attention upwards. The overall composition develops

collaborative and aesthetic features on the streetscape.

Enduring Legacy:

Today, the church of St John's the Baptist continues to give service to the local community. It is

the main place of worship and continues providing other additional services and events. Its

continued services and operation represent a link to the past, hence maintaining a sense of

historical continuation within the neighborhood that has undergone tremendous changes.

Preserving a Legacy:

The historical social cultural and aesthetic significance of the church of Saint John the Baptist

marks its crucial preservation. Ongoing maintenance and likely restoration efforts should be the

priority to retain the building's value and heritage while maintaining its functionality

Conclusion: A Multifaceted Legacy

The church of St John Baptist remains prominent in Leytonstone history ancient architecture and

long-lasting community spirit. Its significance goes beyond religious functions and activities to

include social value craftsmanship and architectural aesthetics.

Understanding and knowing all these various facets allow for a more detailed and comprehensive

acknowledgment of this fundamental landmark and its continuous contribution to the identity of

Leytonstone.
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Conditions of Church of St John the Baptist, Leytonstone.

A comprehensive and detailed assessment of the Church of St John the Baptist’s exterior reveals

numerous areas requiring focus. It is crucial to conduct a detailed evaluation and survey. The

report provides both visible and likely causes considering the building’s age and common

problems associated with historic buildings.

A visual assessment and inspection of the church exterior section was conducted. The inspection

focused on. checking and identifying cracks staining spalling and any other type or signs of

deterioration. During this observation, an inspection photograph and sketches were recorded and

documented (Hammock, 1904.)

Defects observed.

i) Spalling Brickwork on Eastern Elevation.

Location: The eastern wall of the church indicates scattered areas, especially around the base

and window arches.

Description: a small area of the wall section had missing bricks, hence exposing the underlying

mortar.
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Figure 2, Spalling Brickwork on Eastern Elevation.

Possible causes:

Age and weathering effect: over a long period, constant exposure to temperature fluctuations,

heavy rains, and severe frosts may weaken the building's mother and break resulting in spalling

(Halsey, 1996).

Water percolation: water leakage on gutters or cracks along the pointing can allow water to

penetrate through brickwork resulting in internal strain and stresses and ultimately spalling.

Lack of maintenance: repointing should be done regularly on motor joints this helps to prevent

water percolation and maintain the quality of the brickwork.

ii) Staining on Stonework at Western Elevation Area:

Location: Focused on the decorative stonework and brickwork above the main entrance of the

church as well as around windows on the western facade.

Description: Greenish and Dark Brown stains are visible on the stone and brick surfaces.

Possible Causes:

Growth of moss and algae: Damp and shaded areas are prone to growth of algae and moss,

which can stain and damage the stonework (Jang, 2020).

Pollution of Air: Stone’s minerals could react with pollution pollutants resulting in discoloration

(El-Gohary, 2008.)

Water Leaching: Soluble salt located in the stone and brick can dissolve with water percolation

and move to the surface, leaving residue upon drying.

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3. Cracked Render at Bell Tower:

Location: Vertical cracks can be seen on the rendered section of the church bell tower,

especially at the sides and corners.

Description: Hairline cracks are visible and run upward from the base widening at the top.

Possible Causes:

Building Movements; Foundation Settlement and structural shift result in cracking of the render.

(Douglas, and Ransom, 2013)

Weathering; Freezing and thawing repeatedly result in cracking to the render.

Material Incompatibility; using an incompatible render mix that does not comply with

underlying brickwork can result in cracking.

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Conclusion

The defects observed on the exterior of the church of St John the Baptist may not have an

immediate effect on the building's structural strength and integrity. It is crucial to necessitate

immediate repairs to prevent any further deterioration of the building structure. Resolving these

issues will guarantee the Church's durability and longevity, as well as the preservation of its

historical and architectural importance for future generations.

Remedial Works Proposal: Church of St John the Baptist, Leytonstone

The Identified defects on the exterior part of St John the Baptist's Church need meticulous

repairs that focus on the preservation of the Church's building structure heritage value. The

report indicates proposed potential solutions for each defect, insisting on the utilization of

conventional methods and materials.

1. Spalled Brickwork

Corrective measures
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Cleaning: Loose debris from affected areas can be easily removed using a soft brush. During the

removal of the debris, using water pressure should be avoided to mitigate the risk of further

damage (Lin, M.C.Y., 2010)

Mortar Repointing: Careful repointing should be done around the missing brick area utilizing a

lime-based mortar mix matching the existing motor color of the brickwork.

Brick Replacement: It is crucial to use bricks that replicate the original in size, color, and texture.

Heavily damaged and spalled bricks need to be replaced, thus ensuring ideal bonding and

merging with the surrounding masonry work.

Preserving Historical Building Heritage Value:

 Lime mortar is a porous material hence allowing the brickwork to naturally breathe and

mitigate moisture buildup that can cause spalling.

 Matching the motor color ensures that the building's aesthetic value has been maintained.

 Using reclaimed brickwork reduces any visual Impact of replaced brick therefore

preserving the historic nature of the building structure.

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Sketch 1: Spalled Brickwork Repair

2. Staining on Stonework

Corrective measures; `

Soft brushing: to remove surface Moss algae growth and dirt, are soft Bristle brush can be

utilized dipped and dampened with clean water.

Chemical cleaning; for persistent stains, chemicals such as biocide can be utilized to remove

stubborn stains without affecting the appearance and the quality of the stone (Reza, 2014).

Water repellent utilization; after cleaning is completed, a porous water repellent can be applied

onto the stone surface to assist mitigate future water percolation and stand development.

Preserving Heritage Value:

 Utilizing these methods can help to reduce damage to delicate stone and brickwork.
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 When applying chemical cleaning it is recommended to be done by a professional to

ensure correct product and application technique are used.

 A porous water repellent allows the stone to breathe naturally while protecting it from

dampness.

Sketch 2: Stonework Cleaning and Water Repellent Application

3. Cracked Render

Corrective Measures

Crack injection; a line-based motor can be injected into the cracks to cover them and mitigate

father expansion of the hairline cracks (Lapidus, Cherednichenko, and Smotrov,2016)

Re-rendering; for wider cracks or loosened render it is crucial to meticulously remove the

existing render and apply a new layer of line-based render this ensures that the underline break

work is properly bonded.

Preserving Heritage Value:

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Lime base mortar mixed well with existing brickwork and allows for natural movement

minimizing any future risk of cracking.

Rerendering using similar brickwork materials helps to maintain the building's historic value and

appearance.

Sketch 3: Render Crack Repair

Conclusion

The proposed corrective measures focus on utilizing traditional materials and methods which

ensures that repair work is aligned with the historically stated cultural craftsmanship and design

value of the church building. Implementing and establishing this solution will ensure that the

charge building's structural framework integrity is preserved and its heritage value maintained

for future generations.

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REFERENCES

Lapidus, A., Cherednichenko, N. and Smotrov, V., 2016. The impact of technology installation

of injection mortar systems for long-term behavior of anchor connections. Procedia

Engineering, 153, pp.371-377.

Lin, M.C.Y., 2010. Maintainability of facilities: for building professionals. World Scientific.

Reza, H., 2014. Cleaning and restoring old masonry buildings-investigations of physical and

chemical characteristics of masonry stones and clay bricks during cleaning (Doctoral

dissertation).

Douglas, J. and Ransom, B., 2013. Understanding building failures. Routledge.

El-Gohary, M., 2008. Air pollution and aspects of stone degradation “Umayyed liwân–Amman

citadel as a case study”. Journal of Applied Sciences Research, 4(6), pp.669-682.

Jang, K.M., 2020. Moss on Rocks: Evaluating biodeterioration and protection of bryophytic

growth on stone masonry (Doctoral dissertation, University of Oxford).

Randall, I.M., 2017. English Baptists and the Peace Movement: From World War I to World

War II. Baptistic Theologies, 9(2).

Hammock, W.G., 1904. Leytonstone and Its History: With Especial Reference to the

Establishment and Development of Church Services Therein, and a Short Account of Former

Residents and Residences, Etc. Batten & Davies.

Halsey, D.P., 1996. The weathering of sandstone, with particular reference to buildings in the

West Midlands, UK.

Kaffenberger, T., 2018. Transformation and Memory in Medieval Georgian Church

Architecture: The Case of Manglisi Sioni. Cultural Interactions in Medieval Georgia, p.207.
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Moore, C.H., 1899. Development & Character of Gothic Architecture. Рипол Классик.