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Martin's Memorial Church, Stornoway

Martin’s Memorial Church is a Category B listed building in Stornoway, Isle of Lewis.

History

In 1876 the congregation purchased the site at a cost of £250 () at the corner of Francis Street and Kenneth Street.

The foundation stone was laid on 27 August 1877 by Dr. Adam of Glasgow. It was constructed from red Torridon Sandstone with white stone dressings. Designed by the architect Robert Alexander Bryden of Glasgow it was constructed mainly by local contractors. The mason, plumber and painter works were carried out by local tradesmen, the wright-work by John Baxter of Glasgow, the plasterwork by A.W. Paterson of Dunoon, and the glazier work by C&J Malloch of Glasgow. The baptismal font was presented by the architect. The building was opened for worship on Friday 18 October 1878.

The spire was added in February 1911 at a cost of £1,189 () to the designs of the architect Alex Macdonald.

In 1913 the congregation of the James Street United Presbyterian Church united with the Free English Church, and its building and manse were sold, with the proceeds of the sale passing to the latter, renamed as the United Free English Church.

In 1929, the congregation unanimously voted for the adoption of a new name for the United Free English Congregation, which then became Martin’s Memorial Church.

Organ

The current Harrison Pipe Organ, purchased at a cost of £2,600 () and opened on 20 November 1949. ÂÂ

References