New Workhouse for the Township of Manchester Bongs Estate Crumpsall

MANCHESTER —The extensive range of buildings erected for the new Manchester workhouse at Crumpsall will probably be ready for occupation in March next, according to the Courier. The building will accommodate 1,700 persons, and measures about 700 feet long by 400 feet broad. The works are under the supervision of Messrs Mills and Murgatroyd, the architects. A stone entrance marks the front of the building. No steps have yet been taken relative to the supply of water; and it is not decided whether to bore for it, in which case it is believed an abundant supply would be obtained, or use the equally abundant corporation water, which would have to be brought upon the ground. Pipes are to be laid for both water and gas; the fittings of the latter are done by Messrs Owen and Robinson, Manchester. The cost of the entire building will be about £50,000. A considerable portion of the land will be devoted to “test” labour. The test for women will be in the wash-house and laundry, which are very extensive. The able-bodied will thus earn their living. There will be schools and playgrounds for boys and girls, and workshops for teaching trades to the boys, as well as for teaching the girls the occupations suited to their age and sex. There are also imbecile wards, an infirmary, etc. [Builder 30 August 1856 page 470]

Reference    Manchester Guardian 25 April 1855 Page 1 Contracts
Reference    Manchester Guardian 14 July 1855 page 3 - contracts for slating
Reference    Manchester Guardian 21 July 1855 page 7 - contracts for slating
Reference    Manchester Guardian 27 October 1855 page 6 - contracts for plumbing and glazing
Reference    Manchester Guardian 7 July 1855 – contract for roads – approx 700 yards
Reference    Builder 30 August 1856 page 470