Observatory

OLDHAM

SD90SW ALEXANDRA PARK 780-1/3/4

Observatory

23/01/73

II

Observatory in form of pagoda. 1899. Stone, with polished granite plinth and slate and leaded roof. Square in plan with double pagoda roof. Single room plan, raised up steps. Central entrance and flanking windows, all with wrought-iron screens. Segmental arch to door, curved angle moulding to windows. Three low openings above string course above. Similar rhythm repeated in other elevations, but with wide central blind window space. Angle piers with foliate capitals in upper section carry heavily coved overhanging roof. First tier of roof has scrolled wrought-iron finials at angles, and segmental blind dormers with scrolled wood decorative panelling. Enriched timber screen above carries upper tier of roof which is leaded and ogivally-arched with wood finials at angles. Small onion dome above surmounted by weather vane. Inscriptions in polished granite in return walls of base record that the observatory was erected in commemoration of the jubilee of the incorporation of the Borough, 1849-1899, and list the names of members of the Sanitary Committee of the Borough.

Listing NGR: SD9311103961