If so, then you may be able to help the Education Officer at the new Gateshead Heritage @ St Mary’s, housed in the original church building on the south bank of the Tyne.
Richard Stevenson is currently looking for colour photographs of the Great East window of St Mary’s as it was before it was removed in 1969. The window was designed and erected by William Wailes, the Gateshead stained glass manufacturer, to commemorate those who died in the earlier Great Fire of 1854.
Unfortunately, the only photograph that Gateshead Heritage @ St Mary’s staff have of the window is in black and white (above). Although the design and history of the window are well known, the most basic piece of information – the colours that Wailes used – is missing!
The Great East window was situated behind the Altar in the Chancel of the building, and must have overseen countless couples exchanging their vows. It therefore seems likely that thousands of wedding snaps were taken too!
Richard is keen to use the window’s original design to inspire visitors to the new heritage centre to create their own artwork in the future.
If you, a friend, or a relative happens to have a colour photograph of the window, then please contact
Richard Stevenson on 0191 433 4697, or at richardstevenson@gateshead.gov.uk
