Nestled by the banks of the River Calder, St. Michael's Church in Mytholmroyd stands as a testament to both architectural heritage and community resilience. These images, captured in October 2013, show a church that is both a historical landmark and an integral part of the local landscape.
A Product of a Pious Plan
St. Michael's Church, officially known as Mytholmroyd Parish Church, was consecrated on September 8, 1848. Its very existence is tied to a significant piece of British history: the 1820 Church Building Act. This scheme, informally dubbed the "Million Pound Church Act," was a concerted effort by the government and public to construct new churches in areas of population growth, a response to a period of stagnation in church building since the early 18th century.
Funds for the project came from a combination of government contributions and public subscriptions, with a notable portion derived from the war indemnity collected after the Napoleonic Wars. This unique funding source led to these new churches being known by various names, including "Commissioners Churches" and "Waterloo Churches." St. Michael's, with its Gothic Revival style and sturdy stone construction, is a perfect example of this era of ecclesiastical architecture.
A History of Adaptation
Like many historic churches, St. Michael's has undergone changes to meet the needs of its community. The church was extended in 1888, and a two-story Sunday School was added soon after. This school building was later reduced to a single story and converted into the church hall in the 1970s, a practical adaptation that ensured the building remained a functional space for the congregation.
The photographs show the church and its sprawling graveyard, with gravestones of varying ages and styles, each a record of a life lived in Mytholmroyd. The path meanders through the markers, leading the eye to the imposing church tower, complete with its clock face, and the surrounding, verdant landscape of the Calder Valley.
Facing the Flood
A more recent and dramatic chapter in the church's history is its encounter with the devastating Boxing Day floods of 2015. The River Calder, usually a tranquil presence beside the church, rose to unprecedented levels, submerging the building under more than four feet of water. This was the most significant flooding St. Michael's had faced since the 1940s and led to a prolonged closure of nearly two years.
The community rallied around the church, however, demonstrating an incredible spirit of resilience. The extensive damage was repaired, and the church was rededicated and reopened, stronger than ever. This experience has led to a greater focus on flood prevention, with new work taking place along the riverbanks to protect the church and the wider community from future deluges.
The images from 2013, taken before this event, capture the church in a moment of peace, a beautiful reminder of the calm before the storm. They show the River Calder flowing serenely by, the church standing proudly on its bank, and the community it serves laid out before it. St. Michael's Church is more than a building; it is a symbol of faith, a repository of history, and a testament to the enduring spirit of Mytholmroyd.
Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.
