Gorton Manchester

Day two in Manchester takes us on a bus out to Gorton, the suburb of Manchester where Robert Tomkinson and Alice Coleshill lived and were married in 1909 at St. Phillip's church.

Altar of St. Phillip's Church of England, Gorton

The marriage of Robert & Alice is just the 5th entry in the church record book. The building was complete in 1909 and Alice and Robert were married in September 1909 and left for Canada the next day.

The organ at St. Phillip's church, Gorton

Side chapel at St. Phillip's church, Gorton.

The warden happened to be there when we were scouting about and invited us in and not only gave us a tour but dug out the first parish record book so that I could photo the marriage entry. The church is celebrating it's 100th year anniversary this year and they are trying to repair dry rot and generally improve the appearance of the church. They have a minister only every 4th Sunday. The congregation is about 80 when all are present but averages about 20 each Sunday. I would say it is in a general state of decline inside but their are many willing hands trying to restore it. The warden herself was interesting -- tank top on with tattoos up both and around her neck. Hmmmmm....