From 'Picture of Liverpool: A Strangers Guide Published in 1834
The building appropriated to the recital off the funeral service over the remains of those who are interred in this cemetery, is constructed of stone, and is a most elegant specimen of Grecian architecture. It is situate at the higher part of Duke-street, and is of quadrangular form, being embellished at the east and west ends with a portico, each composed by six Doric columns and surmounted by a corresponding entablature and pediment. A similar entablature and cornice decorated with lion's heads, adorn the sides; and each facade of this edifice is approached by a spacious flight of steps. The interior which is lighted from above is 29 feet wide and 46 feet long. It is decorated with eight Ionic columns and suitably furnished with pews. This oratory is constructed after a model of a Greek Hypaethral temple, and stands at the north west corner of the cemetery.
The ground occupied by the cemetery is equal to about 44,000 square yards, and was formerly a stone quarry, whence much of the material was procured that composes many of the edifices now standing in Liverpool. The two ends as well as the western sides are sloping and planted with shrubs and such trees as are suited for the purpose. These plants when ripened by growth will add much to the appearance of this spot, - "the appointed place of rendzvous"
The lower part is laid out in serpentime walks, grass-plots, shrubberies, &c, and is chiefly assigned to graves. The east side which is nearly perpendicular is about 1100 feet long, and 52 feet high, and is faced with stone obtained from the quarry. On this side there are 105 catacombs, disposed in different tiers, each having a door-way, 7 feet high, and 4 and a half inches wide. These tombs are approached by sloping and horizontal roads, wide enough to admit a carriage, and defended by a stone fence about 2 feet 6 inches high. The entire length of these grounds is about 500 yards, and the average width about 90 yards. At a short distance to the south of the oratory stands a handsome stone house, appropriated for use by the minister: and another of humbler aspect is situate at the south end which is alloted to the porter. The whole is enclosed with a strong stone wall, and neat iron palisades. The entrance at the southern end is through a stately and handsome gateway. Besides this there are three other entrances one from Hope-street, and two from the top of Duke-street. In the construction of the oratory and the catacombs Mr Foster has given another proof of refined taste.
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