Did you notice the round-topped doors? That is All Souls Church. It stands on Every Street in Ancoats. It is a unique piece of architecture with an interesting past.
All Souls Church was designed by William Hayley. Construction finished in 1840. The church combines Romanesque style with local materials. Hayley used brown brick and stone. This created a distinctive look. Some describe it as neo-Norman.
All Souls has round-topped doors and windows. Look for the dogtooth carving above the doors. Architectural enthusiasts find it thrilling. Its shape is based on Milan Cathedral. But All Souls is plainer. It is like a shrunken Norman duomo. It is stripped down to its bare essentials. Instead of classical white, it is industrial red.
Samuel Warren commissioned All Souls Church. For many years, it served the local community. Sadly, All Souls closed in 1981. The church became redundant. After its closure, the building had several uses. It even served as a carpenter’s workshop.
The church faced an uncertain future for a while. Some accounts suggested it was a timber merchant. Others claimed it was a joinery workshop. It is possible the timber merchants sold wood to the joiners.
Thankfully, All Souls has been repaired and restored. It has reopened as the Manchester Miracle Centre. In 2010, there was evidence of building work.
All Souls Church is a Grade II listed building. It gained this status on 15 October 1984. This protects its architectural and historical significance. The listing helps to preserve it for future generations.
Today, the Manchester Miracle Centre uses the building. The building has adapted to the needs of a new congregation.
All Souls Church is a testament to Manchester’s history. It shows the city’s industrial past and its capacity for renewal. From its Romanesque design to its modern-day use, All Souls has a compelling story. It reflects the changing face of Ancoats. It reminds us of the communities that have shaped this area.