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Square Chapel

Back to Square's roots

In 1772 the impressive sight of a red brick building appeared amongst the green fields of central Halifax. Square Chapel was the first major building in the town to be made of brick and was a unique building, being a 60 foot square. The man responsible for its building was Titus Knight and the architect was Thomas Bradley.

At the time it would have been an amazing technical feat as it had the longest unsupported roof span in the country. John Wesley praised the Chapel for its ‘utmost elegance’ although others criticised the cost.

The Chapel was later converted to a Sunday School. In the mid 1800’s and throughout the century, the Chapel was used as an assembly hall for classes, prize giving's and meetings.

By the 1970’s the building was falling into disrepair. It was empty, in a dangerous state and was threatened with demolition.

In 1989, at the bargain price of £25, the Chapel was bought from the Council by the Square Chapel Building Trust with the aim of creating a small scale arts centre. Work on making the Chapel structurally sound was completed in 1990 with the help of a £3.5 million restoration project fund.

However, by 1995, the Chapel was facing a second major crisis due to a lack of funding and there was talk that the venue may have to close.

As we move into the next century, the future for Square Chapel appears more secure. Extra funding has enabled the Centre to make improvements to the entrance hall and the installation of a semi-sprung floor will add dance events to the list of entertainments offered at Square.

Although the inside activities within the Chapel may have changed, reminders of the Chapel’s history still remain. Certainly, a unique building worth visiting! Square Chapel Centre for the Arts|

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