Construction of the Nave
Through the generosity of the brick-givers construction on the Nave started in 1955. To mark the occasion, a Great Pilgrimage was organized from the town centre to Stag Hill. It involved representative groups from most parishes in the Diocese as was probably the largest ever gathering on Stag Hill for an act of worship and celebration.
Building work continued for the next 6 years, following Maufe’s design.
In 1957 HM The Queen and Prince Philip visited to lay a stone at the West end to the Nave floor, marking progress. By 1961 building work was not complete but plans were made for Consecration.
-
The Pilgrimage and Visit of Princess Margaret
The Pilgrimage processions heads down Guildford High Street for the Cathedral led by a group of girls carrying a cross made of spring daffodils (April 1955).
© Surrey Advertiser, 20th April 1955
-
The Princess and the Bishop
Princess Margaret and Bishop Montgomery-Campbell at the bottom of the south steps with the unfinished Cathedral in the background.
© Surrey Advertiser, 20th April 1955
-
Construction of the Nave
Aerial view showing the Cathedral site on top of Stag Hill, 1957.
-
Construction of the Nave
Aerial view with the Nave almost at roof level, c 1959
-
Construction of the Nave
The interior North wall of the nave before plastering.
© W Dennett
-
Construction of the Nave
Scaffolding silhouetted against the open west end of the Cathedral, c. 1958-59.
© Planet News Ltd; ref. 368639
-
The Queen's Visit, 1957
In June 1957, the Queen and Prince Philip visited the site to view progress. Here the Queen is pictured meeting Sir Edward Maufe. Provost Boulton is on the right.
