Geotype Submission

The Geotype project charts the rich history of lettering and type forms that have established the identity of cities and towns around the world. Explore the map

How does this letter-form communicate its location?

This sign is discreetly placed on the corner of King Edward Street in Macclesfield’s town centre to direct worshippers to the hidden chapel which was built in 1690. Initially an independent chapel, it became Unitarian during the ministry of John Palmer between 1764 and 1780. In the early 19th century a number of Gothic features were introduced to the interior. I don’t know how long this sign has stood for since the change of the chapel’s name from Back Street Chapel in 1825, but it looks very worn out and the use of Gothic typeface leads me to believe that it has been stood for some time. This chapel is unique for it accepts any religious view, a chapel in which both my parents and older sister have held their weddings over the previous 2 decades. I wonder if the use of wood nailed to brick was intentional to make it temporary or movable, rather than announcing its presence in the longer lasting technique of engraving stone for instance, could this be because it was frowned upon by certain people for not being devoted to one religion? The use of gold paint makes for an elegant sign, whereas the handwritten letters make this sign less formal and more inviting. I like the way in which the author has used larger letters to write the name of the chapel, and letters equally as large to tell the public that all are welcome.

Location

3 King Edward Street, Macclesfield SK10 1ES, UK