1860 – Church of the Assumption, Wexford, Co. Wexford

“In the town of Wexford are two new Roman Catholic churches, identical in dimensions and design, and which are now being fitted up interiorly, but differently. They were built by, and from the plans of, the late Mr Pierse formerly clerk of works under the late Mr. Pugin and are said to be impressive buildings in the Gothic style. The bishop insisted that they should be identical, to prevent jealousy and unpleasant comparisons amongst the towns-people.”
The Builder, March 27 1858

On of Wexford’s “twin churches”, these Neo-Gothic buildings were opened in 1858 and the twin spires are part of the unique skyline of the town. Each Church is dedicated to The Blessed Virgin, Bride Street to the Assumption, and Rowe Street to the Immaculate Conception. The estimated cost of the Churches was in the region of £16,000 each, for the completion of structure and essential interior furnishing. The actual cost of completing both Churches inside and out, the laying out of the grounds, the building of boundary walls, etc., was to eventually cost much more – £54,000.