Hartley Victoria College Alexandra Road South Whalley Range

Built as a training college for Primitive Methodist ministers. A Committee was formed in 1876 and 6675 square yards of land acquired. The cost of the works was estimated at £5695 with a further £2000 for furnishings etc. Three memorial stones were laid by Mr Henry Lee, Mr John Lees Buckley of Woodley and William Beckworth of Leeds.

THE MANCHESTER THEOLOGICAL INSTITUTE - The memorial stones of the new Theological Institute for the Manchester centre were laid yesterday afternoon. An admirable site has been secured on the west side of Alexandra-road and the building, which is to be in the Early English style, will be of brick with moulded brick dressings. Accommodation is to be provided for thirty students in a wing running at right angles to the main building which fronts Alexandra-road. The main building will consist of the necessary class and dining rooms and a good-sized library. Adjoining will be the Principal’s house, containing kitchens and servants= apartments for the whole. Baths and lavatories will be provided for the students at one end of their wing. The plans have been prepared by Messrs Tate & Popplewell, architects, 20, Princess-street, Manchester and the contract has been let to Mr J Gerrard of Swinton. ....  (Report continues with speeches).[Manchester Courier. Tuesday 25 June 1878]

Reference    Manchester Guardian Saturday 13 April 1878 Page 9. (Contracts)
Reference    Manchester Courier. Tuesday 25 June 1878 Page 3 Column 6
Reference    British Architect 28 June 1878 Page 305
Reference    British Architect 9 December 1881 - illustration