The Construction of the Nave
After the war, building restrictions prevented an immediate restarting of construction. However, in 1947, worship in the crypt commenced and in 1952, fund-raising began again - by this time needing to raise four times the original estimate of £250,000.
The ‘Buy-a Brick' campaign was a great success. Subscribers could by a brick for 2s 6d (12½p) and inscribe it with their name. To this day, many people feel that they have a personal link with the Cathedral because of this scheme.
To mark the start of the construction of the nave in 1955, 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.
Buy a Brick
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).
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.
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 Southam is on the left.
The Queen Signs a Brick
The Queen signing a brick. This brick is visible in the St. Ursula's Porch.
Also in the picture are Eleanora Iredale, the organizer of the brick giving scheme, Provost Southam and Bishop Watkins.
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.
Construction of the Nave
Scaffolding silhouetted against the open west end of the Cathedral, c. 1958-59.