Wesleyan Methodist Chapel (1), New Road, Dearnley

LAYING THE CORRNER STONE OF A NEW WESLEYAN CHAPEL - Yesterday the interesting ceremony of laying the corner stone of a new Wesleyan chapel at Dearnley, near Littleborough, was performed by Mt Councillor Joseph Handley of Rochdale. …. The Rev E Jackson deposited in the cavity under the stone, a bottle containing the following: The Watchman, The Methodist Recorder, Rochdale Observer, and Pilot, Preachers' plan, names of the Trustees, E Wrigley and Sons Household Almanack for 1868, a programme of the day's ceremonies, and several pieces of coins. Mr S Saxon then presented to Mr Councillor Handley a beautiful silver trowel, and mahogany mallet and level. The trowel bore the inscription "Presented to Mr Councillor Handley, on laying the corner stone of the new Wesleyan Chapel, Dearnley, June 5th 1868.” The stone was then formally laid by Mr Handley.

The building is to take the place of one which has been acknowledged to be incapable of affording suitable accommodation for those who worship in it. The building will be a brick one with a stone front, and will measure 16 yards by 12, and is designed to accommodate from 400 to 500 persons. The architect is Mr E N Macdougal, (sic) Rochdale; contractors Messrs Joseph and Jonathan Garside, Smithy Bridge. [Rochdale Observer 6 June 1868 page 5]

Foundation    Stone laid 5 June 1868
Opened        13 September 1868

Reference    Rochdale Observer 18 April 1868 page 4 – contracts
Reference    Rochdale Observer 6 June 1868 page 5 – foundation stone
Reference    Rochdale Observer 19 September 1868 page 2 – opening