Gala Kirk

Early diaries of the Amos family record services being held in 1840 at the granary on the property Glen Gala. Regular services were held by Rev. Joseph Mayson (Anglican Minister) and Mr. Morrison (Congregational Missionary Minister) at the homes of Mr. Watson and Mr. Lyne on the property Glen Heriot.

In May 1844 a letter was received from Rev. James Bell, of Hobart Town, indicating that Rev. Thomas Dove could be employed under the church act if 50 signatures from east coast residents could be obtained. The Rev. Thomas Dove was appointed Presbyterian Minister for the district of Swanport on the 2nd September 1844.

Rev. Thomas Dove chaired a public meeting on the 7th October 1844, it was resolved that five acres of Glen Gala land, valued at £40 offered by Adam Amos be accepted.

The plan for the Kirk measured 45 feet in length, 24 feet in width and 16 feet in height, it could accommodate 200 worshippers and include a vestry and annexed schoolroom.

The building committee comprised of:

James Amos of Glen Gala Secretary

James Amos of Craigie Knowe Treasurer

Alexander Reid of Waters Meeting

John Amos, sen. of Cranbrook

John Ferguson, sen.

Adam Amos, jun.

Robert Wardlaw

The treasurer James Amos travelled around the state raising funds, the Government also contributed to the Kirk.

The Lieutenant-Governor has approved of a warrant being prepared in favour of Mr. John Amos, contractor. For the building - for the sum of eighty pounds. I have the honour to be Sir, You very obedient servant J.E. Bicheno (Colonial Secretary).

The sum raised was £464, insufficient to complete the Kirk. James Amos son of John Amos sen. offered to build the Kirk for the sum collected.

Observer Newspaper, 28th November 1845:

The new Kirk 'Glen Gala' will be publicly opened on the Sabbath the 7th December next. The Reverend J. Little is expected to officiate on the occasion.

Over the years restoration work has been undertaken to fix, the storm water system, foundation air vents, roof rafters, bracing of walls and paint work.

The Amos family commissioned the beautifully carved memorial plaque above the alter from the renowned artist Mrs. Eleanor Nora (Nellie) Payne. In a letter dated 19 March 1921, Mrs Payne acknowledged receiving the payment of forty pounds.

This building is listed under the National Trust Australia (Tas) as a significant historical early Georgian Church.

Services are no longer held in the church and the Amos family members still take care of the church today.

This church has been purchased by members of the Amos family in January 2023.