Square Chapel, Halifax - PNH00192

Dissent and nonconformity, which alongside the established church formed an essential feature of the social and cultural fabric of Calderdale from the 17th century, came to make its mark on an increasingly urbanised landscape during the late 18th century. Nonconformity became the faith of a society dedicated to the work ethic, to thrift and to competition, and this faith was outwardly symbolised by 1800 in a number of chapel buildings characterised by an elegant simplicity of style. One of the earliest and most striking examples is Square Chapel, probably designed by Thomas Bradley but reflecting in its elegant Palladian style the influence of John Carr. After years of neglect its future now appears secure as an arts centre. Opened in 1772 and one of the few brick buildings to emerge in the area during this period, Square Chapel was built for Congregationalists who, under the leadership of Titus Knight, a local collier and famous preacher, formed an early break-away group from the Wesleyan church which had dominated the religious revival of the previous two decades. By the mid 19th century nonconformist chapels significantly outnumbered Anglican churches and had become a vital part of the industrial landscape. Classical simplicity was giving way to rich Gothic design, favoured by many wealthy industrialists who increasingly expressed their prosperity and status in municipal and religious patronage. A most impressive nonconformist example was Square Church, of which only the soaring 235 foot spire remains. Built in 1857 it was designed by Joseph James and funded largely by the Crossley family.

Text from: Calderdale Architecture and History.

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Pennine Horizons Digital Archive

PHDA - Pennine Heritage Collection

Pennine Horizons Digital Archive

PNH00192.tif