Revisiting Our Beginnings

In 1791, a Catholic chapel was established in Stockton-on-Tees to serve the local Catholic community. This mission was led by Fr Joseph Dugdale, who recognized the need for a larger place of worship as the Catholic population grew. To meet this need, he commissioned the renowned architect Augustus Pugin to design a new church.
The present St Mary’s Church was officially opened on 7 July 1842 by Bishop Francis Mostyn, then Apostolic Vicar of the Northern District.
Over the years, the church underwent several significant additions and renovations:
In 1866, the north aisle and the lower section of the tower were constructed at a cost of £1,300.
In 1870, the south aisle and sanctuary were added, designed by George Goldie, costing £4,000.
In 1909, the upper part of the tower and the presbytery were completed, designed by Charles Hadfield, son of the architect Matthew Ellison Hadfield.
In 1970, the sanctuary was reordered and the church roof was replaced to preserve the structure and accommodate liturgical changes.