The Church of St Mary Magdalen, Accrington in the County of -- Lancashire --

	The Church of St Mary Magdalen, Accrington

	The Church of St Mary Magdalen, Accrington

	The Church Sign at St Mary Magdalen, Accrington

Its origin was the outcome of a Parochial Mission held by the other churches in 1883. A room was rented in Knowlmere Street School from Miss Bannister and divine service was first held in it on February 6th 1884. The room was also used for day and Sunday school purposes. The Rev. W Symonds was the first curate in charge, then the Rev. C. M. Buckley (who left in 1890 for Jamaica). The Rev. J. Clough, the third curate, became vicar of Hirst Green. In 1894 the Rev. G. W. Sayer was appointed and became the first vicar of the parish, which was created by order of the Lords in Council, October 5th, 1895 on an endowment being granted from St James’. The foundation stone of the new church was laid by Canon Rogers, and the corner stone laid by Masonic rites by Mr Arthur Appleby on June 25th, 1898. There was considerable delay in the erection of the sanctuary and the new church was not consecrated until January 26th, 1904, being the first church consecrated by the new Bishop of Manchester. The church has a fine appearance, although the tower has never been completed. It is in the Gothic style of the decorated period.