Our Lady of Grace Church, Charlton

Origins and establishment In 1903, following their exile from France due to anti-clerical legislation, led by Mother Julie Franck and her sister Mother Miriam Franck, a group of Sisters of the Assumption established a community in Charlton, by purchasing a private residence Highcombe House. This impressive property, built around 1825, had a distinguished history, having been home to several notable figures including Sir William Congreve, 2nd Baronet (1772–1828), a prolific inventor, and William Henry Barlow (1812–1902), who had designed the roof of St Pancras station and is commemorated with an English Heritage blue plaque. Highcombe House and its gardens, now serving as a community centre and presbytery, is a Grade II listed building and one of only two surviving structures from the historic Westcombe and Eastcombe estates that once dominated the area between Greenwich and Charlton Village. Mass was first celebrated in the house on 18 July 1903 by Fr Benedict Caron, A.A., who became the first mission priest. The chapel was opened to local residents, gradually establishing a Catholic mission in the area. == Architecture ==

Church The church is built in neo-Romanesque style, rare for Catholic churches in England during this period when Gothic Revival was more prevalent. The style represents one of the few examples of Continental Romanesque Revival traditions in British Catholic architecture. The building is constructed of stock brick laid in English bond, with stone dressings and a slate roof. The construction, undertaken by Jones & Sons of Erith, cost £5,000 in 1905 (equivalent to approximately £1.2–1.5 million in 2023 when considering relative construction costs), representing a substantial investment for a Catholic parish in Edwardian England. offering views across London. The estate has been home to various aristocrats, military leaders and public figures throughout its history. is thought to show Eastcombe House 1. Then Captain William Congreve with his elder son William can be seen central on the rear wall again by Reinagle. William Congreve the dramatist can be seen above the fire place. This painting reveals how the fashionable Georgian home was decorated with floral carpet, girandole mirrors and mantelpiece ornaments. Today, Highcombe House continues to serve the community, providing both parish administration facilities and space for community gatherings and events. == References ==