St Ann's, Stretford facts for kids
St Ann's Church, Stretford is a special Roman Catholic church. It's located in Stretford, which is part of Greater Manchester, England. This church was built a long time ago, between 1862 and 1863. It stands on the east side of the A56 Chester Road. The church is part of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Salford. It's also a "Grade II listed" building, meaning it's an important historical place.
Contents
How St Ann's Church Began
The story of St Ann's Church started in 1859. Back then, it was called the St Ann's Mission. It began in a small chapel on Herbert Street in Stretford. At first, it was like a smaller church connected to All Saints in Barton. This lasted until 1862. After that, it became connected to St Francis in Gorton. Priests from the Franciscan order helped lead the services there.
Building the Church
Who Designed and Built It?
The church was designed by a famous architect named E. W. Pugin. He used a style called Gothic Revival. This style looks like old medieval churches. Sir Humphrey de Trafford asked for the church to be built. He wanted it as a special wedding anniversary gift for his wife, Lady Annette.
Mr. Glaistor from Liverpool was the main builder. The beautiful windows and brass decorations were made by Hardman & Co. in Birmingham. Richard Lockwood Boulton from Worcester was the skilled stonemason.
When the Church Opened
The church officially opened its doors on November 22, 1863. Bishop William Turner led the opening ceremony. A few years later, in 1865, the presbytery (where the priests live) and the sacristy (a room for church items) were finished. The church was fully blessed by Bishop William Turner on June 18, 1867. The church organ was installed the next year, in 1868, by FW Jardine of Manchester.
Changes Over Time
Early Renovations
The church got a fresh new look in 1893 and 1894. It was refurbished and redecorated. JA Pippet from Hardman & Co. in Birmingham painted many murals. These paintings showed different parts of the life of St Ann.
Modern Updates and War Damage
In the 1930s, St Ann's Church was updated again. New oak fittings were added. These included a pulpit (where sermons are given), altar rails, a font (for baptisms), and wood panels in the sanctuary. This work was stopped when the Second World War began. During the war, St Ann's was damaged by bombs in the blitz.
Post-War Modernization
In the 1960s, the church was greatly modernized. This was done to get ready for its 100th anniversary. Then, in the 1970s, more changes happened. These changes were made to update the sanctuary for new church practices. The high altar, pulpit, and later the altar rails were all removed.
See also
- Listed buildings in Stretford
