This book chronicles the rich history of St John’s Waterloo, beginning with early 19th-century debates in Parliament over funding its construction. It delves into pivotal events like the church’s bombing in 1940 and subsequent rebuilding, highlighting the remarkable people who have shaped the parish and supported its social and charitable work over the past two centuries.

The book concludes with an epilogue by Mark Ormerod, documenting the recent redevelopment of St John’s.

You can access the book, as well as a short history, here.

Peter Jefferson Smith was born in Ely, Cambridgeshire, in 1939. After completing a degree in history at Trinity College, Cambridge, he settled in Clapham, London, where he would remain for the rest of his life. Peter joined the Civil Service, spending the majority of his career at HM Customs and Excise. He retired in 1995, after serving for seven years as Deputy Chairman.

A dedicated member of the local community, Peter was quick to lend his support where needed. Early on, he stepped in to lead a youth club holiday to Austria when a local curate was unable to attend. This memorable trip not only solidified Peter’s involvement with the youth, but also led to lifelong relationships, including his marriage to one of the fellow leaders of the trip.

In the 1970s, Peter played a pivotal role in preserving significant areas of local housing, advocating for the protection of both local housing blocks and the community’s heritage against Lambeth Council’s redevelopment plans. His passion for community development was further demonstrated through his involvement in founding the South East London Community Foundation, later serving as Chair of Trustees. Peter was also an avid bellringer and took the initiative to restore and augment the bells at Holy Trinity Church in Clapham.

Peter died in 2018, remaining at home during his final days. His Thanksgiving Service, led by Canon Giles Goddard at St John’s, was a warm and nearly joyful tribute to a life well-lived.