The Cathedral of the Holy TRINITY

The building of the first Anglican Church in Trinidad and Tobago began on May 30th 1816, completed in 1818 and consecrated on May 25th 1823. This church was built during the colonial era mainly for the British military and the British residents that settled in this country. This Church resides on 30A Abercromby Street, Port-of-Spain. It was designed using a late Georgian mixed with Gothic styled architecture. Characteristics of the gothic architecture were seen in the height and opulence of the Church, diagonal buttresses that were not only designed as a support system but decorated intrinsically giving a majestic air about the Church. As well as, the pointed arch whose purpose was one of splendour and strength that gave rise to the structure. Elements of the Victorian age such as the stone exterior were also incorporated. The roof of the church is supported with hammer beams designed out of mahogany and there are six stained glass windows over the altar giving the Church a regal quality.

The urban theory of colonial domination through colonial architecture is demonstrated through the presence of The Holy Trinity Anglican Church. The urban landscape of Port-of-Spain was influenced by the imperial powers. The British organised the city by means of facilitating complete dominance. Colonialism was so blatantly influential by the mere fact that the church was built specifically for the British in the country. The church itself was constructed for British gain, not only for the British to worship in but also to convert the heathens of the colony. The architecture of the building represents the British presence here. In fact, the architectural design impacts the Trinidadian culture so much so that it is often admired by the population and it is often desired to recreate such.  It shows that the influence of the imperial powers remain embedded in our society.

The imperial powers during the colonial era have done a marvellous job in leaving their culture behind in Trinidad. Their means of converting their colonies to Christianity have allowed for such exquisite architecture in the Capital City. The Holy Trinity Cathedral is an Anglican church which remains as not only a remnant of the Colonial era but also an adopted aspect of Trinidadian culture. This building reveals that during the colonial era, cities such as Port-of-Spain weren’t built for cars or for machines, rather they were built for HUMANS. The very presence of this church shows the connection of the city and God. Standing majestically and tall, this church continues forth with its purpose for worship and admiration. The structure of this Church is gazed upon by all who visit Woodford Square in Port-of-Spain and can be seen at some distances away. Its appearance gives you the feeling that you’re standing and staring at a Church in Britain itself. It takes you to a whole new sense of place.

This Cathedral influenced the creation of many more Anglican churches in other parts of Trinidad. Hence, even though there are no events being hosted by this church presently, the other Anglican churches in Trinidad and Tobago are involved in many activities.

Bibliography

Buildings and Architecture. n.d. http://www.destinationtnt.com/to-do-and-see/culture-and-heritage/buildings-architecture/ (accessed March 21st , 2016).

The Anglican Church in the Diocese of Trinidad and Tobago. n.d. http://theanglicanchurchtt.com/home-