Adelaide Joss House
Date Published
: Temples / Joss House
: Adelaide
: Adelaide
: 1891 to 1933
Adelaide Joss House - West Torrens article - no sources - poor image of Adelaide Joss House
"THE HOUSE OF "JOSS."—The Chinese residents of Adelaide are making their place of worship, which is situated in Morphett-street and is constituted of wood and galvanized iron, very imposing, ornaments arriving by almost every mail. On Thursday Mr. Bagster visited the building, and was shown over by Mr. Hu Ting. The altar, over which hangs a picture of the "Three Brethren," is tastefully decorated with ornaments of all descriptions, whilst the different coloured Chinese lanterns help to beautify the place. On the left side of the altar stands a magnificent model of one of the Joss Houses in China. This is well worth seeing. Boards bearing different inscriptions are hung on the walls of the room for the purpose of receiving presents for the gods. The musical instruments consist of five drums, four of which recently arrived from China are made from the hide of oxen, and one gong. The latest addition is that of a handsome banner, which hangs over the door of the Joss, bearing suitable inscriptions. On Saturday evening the Chinese propose having a display of fireworks to celebrate their New Year, and are making extensive preparations at the rear of the Joss for the purpose. A large number of assorted fireworks have arrived, and more are expected daily. The display, which is open to the public, promises to be exceptionally good, and no doubt will be witnessed by a large number of spectators."
Evening Journal, 13 March 1891, p.2.
See also: The Express and Telegraph, Wednesday 21 January 1891, p.5.
"The Joss House, off Hindley-street, was gaily decorated for the occasion, and the Joss smiled as benignantly as only a Joss can smile at the attention paid him in the shape of incense, crackers, and other luxuries. The worshippers attend early in the morning, and the rest of the time the loss is left to the care of the officiating priest, or attendant, for he seems to act in both capacities."
The Advertiser, 7 February 1905, p.6.
"They spent the day in feasting, after having devoutly burned a joss stick before their idols in the Joss House. But in Adelaide there is no Joss House now. The old Joss House in a lane off Morphett street, has been turned into a stables."
