Day and Sunday Schools, Duckworth Street, Over Darwen, Lancashire

In early 1883 the Chapel Committee of the Duckworth Street School Congregational school determined to pull down their existing schools of 1855 and to rebuild them entirely “in a modern and improved style.” A limited architectural competition was then organised in which James Ledingham was successful. Tenders for the work were sought in April leading to some confusion, (the Builder assuming the works to be in Bradford, not Darwen, based upon the location of the architect). Plans were approved by the council in May and on 26 May 1883 the foundation stone was laid.

The new schools were built on the same site as the earlier school at the junction of Duckworth Street and Peabody Street.  2-3 storeys parpoints ashlar dressings.

BRADFORD  (sic) - Plans for Day and Sunday-school Buildings, Duckworth-street Congregational Church, Over Darwen, by Mr. Jas. Ledingham, architect, Bradford, have been selected in limited competition. [Builder 10 March 1883 page 310]

Reference    Blackburn Standard Saturday 17 February 1883 page 8
Reference    Builder 10 March 1883 page 310
Reference    Bradford Daily Telegraph Monday 23 April 1883 page 1 – contracts
Reference    Blackburn Standard Saturday 12 May 1883 page 8 – plans approved.
Reference    Blackburn Standard 2 June 1883