The expanding population of Manchester, caused by the onset of the Industrial Revolution, led to the foundation of several new churches there during the 18th century, among which St Mary's was one.
It was constructed by the warden and fellows of the Collegiate Church, who obtained an act of Parliament for the purpose in 1753.
[2] The building was demolished in 1891 and the adjacent Parsonage House, once home to Thomas La Warr, suffered a similar fate in 1897.
The site of the two buildings is now an open space and designated conservation area in the city, known as Parsonage Gardens.
[5][6] Some of the church plate, including some chalices, patens and an almsdish, was transferred to St Ann's.