• Rochester Corps hall turns 100
The doors opened, the floods came – but it survived.
After 100 years of standing strong through a history marked by adversity, including major floods, the Rochester Salvation Army Hall is celebrating its centenary this year.
The hall was officially opened on June 19, 1926, in the Victorian township of Rochester, originally located on the corner of Elizabeth and Victoria streets. The premises served the local community and provided a base for Salvation Army events and programs.
Then the floods came.
On Easter Sunday 1939, the largest flood since 1916 hit the hall – and it would not be the last. Just eight years later, in 1947, another flood struck.
However, in 1986, a new chapter began.
The old hall was purchased by the Rochester Historical and Pioneer Society after The Salvation Army ceased using it. It was then transported across the river to its current location on High Street.
Today, the hall is located alongside the historical society’s main building, displaying and storing historical items.
Through it all, The Salvation Army has continued to support the Rochester township over the years, including Sunday School lessons for children, Home League for ladies, Harvesttime, Young Peoples Corps Cadet Brigade, Vacation Bible School and Youth Group, Legion Leader, athletic and aquatic competitions, and Mainly Music.
Many local community members have also played their part by helping to raise funds through collecting and shaking their tins.
