Two Cathedrals Rise in the city of Liverpool

The article “2 Cathedrals Rise in Liverpool,” published on the New York Times in 1964, is an original news article written by Clyde H. Farnsworth which covers the construction of Liverpool Cathedral, designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, and Metropolitan Cathedral.

The New York Times has a long history of writing about architecture. Their article “2 Cathedrals Rise in Liverpool,” is one of their most prominent.

2 Cathedrals Rise in Liverpool

The year is 1964. Construction of Liverpool Cathedral is underway. The cathedral, designed by Giles Gilbert Scott, is a neo‐Gothic Anglican structure.

One‐half mile to the north, another cathedral is being construction. The Metropolitan Cathedral, designed by Frederick Gibberd, is a contemporary structure in stark contrast to Scott’s. It would go on to cause some controversy over its design.

In the United States, construction of the National Cathedral in Washington is underway. And in New York, the construction of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine.

Foundation Set by Edward VII

The New York Times features a segment about how the foundation stones for Liverpool Cathedral were laid 60 years previously by Edward VII. It covers its history, noting that its construction had dragged slowly but continuously over the years.

The article notes on this, that “In a few years, a decision will have to be made whether to continue with the design of the architect, the late Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, or to complete the cathedral in modern style.” We now know that Scott’s original design would stick.

To read more on this story, check out the original article on the New York Times.