Churches of Bradford

For much of its history Bradford was a small town in West Yorkshire and a local centre for the wool trade. Industrialisation in the nineteenth century transformed Bradford. Textile mills, coal mining and iron manufacturing developed rapidly in the area and the town became known as the wool capital of the world. By the end of the century Bradford had become a county borough and city, and the rising population included many immigrants from Ireland and Germany. Large numbers of churches of all denominations were built in Victorian Bradford for these people, particularly nonconformist chapels and churches which particularly appealed to the urban population, and the building continued into the twentieth century although some of the older churches became repurposed.

Churches of Bradford reveals the variety of historic church buildings in Bradford and the diverse history of the population of the city, from the Cathedral and other Anglican buildings to Roman Catholic churches and non-denominational chapels. All the churches in this book have special architectural, or historical and social interest. This fascinating picture of an important part of the history of Bradford over the centuries will be of interest to all those who live in or are visiting this city.

Author Biography

Simon Ross Valentine is a freelance writer, lecturer and published author. He has lived in Bradford since 1988, teaching at Bradford Grammar School and lecturing part-time at the local University and at Leeds University. He possesses degrees in Law and Religious Studies; two Masters degrees, one of which is on Nonconformity in Bradford, and a doctorate on eighteenth century history. He has numerous books published on history and other subjects. His latest book was Bradford City Hall: 150 Years of Civic Pride published by Bradford Council last year. He has a deep interest in the city’s culture, particularly its history and religion. Working as a volunteer archivist at the Local Studies Library Simon has access to invaluable documents relating to all aspects of Bradford’s history, material which he successfully uses to compile his various books, articles and encyclopedia entries on local and national history.