In addition to my own photography I am also a collector of images, having purchased many collections of photographs, images, 35mm slides, postcards over the years. A few years ago I bought a job lot collection of pin up girl cartoons and images, I was advised at the time that they were all copyright free or public domain so there is no intention to infringe any copyright by me.
Bill Ward was an American "Good Girl" artist and cartoonist who was notable as the creator of the comic character Torchy. Born William Hess Ward on the 6th March 1919, he grew up in Ridgewood New Jersey where he developed illustrating as a hobby. Attending the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, Ward graduated in 1941 and obtained a job as an assistant at a Manhattan art agency, where he was eventually fired for cutting through a half finished illustration of a Ford motor car. After this Ward went to work for comic book artist Jack Binder, the creator of Daredevil a modern Marvel comics hero. Over the next several decades Ward worked on features such as Captain Marvel, Bullet Man, Blackhawk, Judge Dredd, and his most famous creation Torchy.
The following video features 20 of his "good girl" images with the original caption displayed in the clip.
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Nestled on Honey Hole Road in Todmorden, West Yorkshire, stands a building that is more than just a church; it's a testament to a family's devotion, a community's spirit, and a remarkable piece of architectural history. We're talking about Todmorden Unitarian Church, a stunning structure with a story as rich and enduring as its stone walls.
A Monument to a Visionary
The church was not merely built; it was conceived as a lasting memorial to John Fielden, a prominent local figure who left an indelible mark on Todmorden. Fielden was not only a successful mill owner but also a passionate social reformer and a Member of Parliament for Oldham from 1832 to 1847. A staunch advocate for the working classes, he was also a leading light in the local Unitarian movement.
His three sons, Joshua, John, and Samuel, took on the monumental task of funding the church's construction, which began in 1865. They spared no expense, donating the land and committing an unlimited budget to the project. The final cost, a staggering £35,000, translates to over £3.5 million in 2020 rates – a clear indication of their dedication and the ambition behind the design.
From Grand Opening to Quiet Closure
Completed in 1869, the church flung open its doors in April with a memorable sermon delivered by William Gaskell to a congregation of over 800 people. For many years, the church thrived, a vibrant hub for the community.
However, like many religious institutions across the UK, the early 20th century saw a gradual decline in congregations. The upkeep of such a grand building became increasingly challenging, and by 1987, a difficult decision was made to close the main church and relocate services to the nearby lodge at the entrance of the grounds. These smaller services continued for a few more years, but by 1992, the church and its grounds were completely closed.
A Phoenix from the Ashes: Revival and Restoration
After its closure, the once magnificent church sadly fell into disrepair, becoming a target for vandalism. But its story wasn't over. In 1994, the Historic Chapels Trust stepped in, recognizing the immense historical and architectural significance of the building. Over the next few years, they poured over £1 million into crucial repairs, breathing new life into the decaying structure.
Today, Todmorden Unitarian Church is more than just a preserved relic. It is licensed for weddings, offering a unique and historic backdrop for special occasions, and continues to serve the local community as a versatile meeting place.
A Legacy of Listed Status
The architectural significance of Todmorden Unitarian Church is formally recognized. It was granted Grade I listed status on November 22nd, 1966, a testament to its exceptional architectural and historical importance. The charming lodge at the entrance also holds Grade II listed status, awarded on February 22nd, 1984.
A Glimpse Through the Lens
The accompanying pictures, captured on April 22nd, 2017, with a Nikon d3300 SLR camera, offer a visual journey through this remarkable piece of Todmorden's heritage. They invite you to appreciate the intricate details, the grand scale, and the enduring beauty of Todmorden Unitarian Church – a true landmark with a captivating past and a promising future.
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All the pictures taken in my various visits can also be seen in my video on YouTube. Please take a moment to subscribe to my YouTube channel.
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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green
As a photographer with a love for history, there's nothing quite like exploring locations that tell a story of transformation. Slaithwaite Railway Station, a charming village stop nestled 4 miles west of Huddersfield on the route to Manchester, offers just such a narrative. Join me as we delve into the past and present of this fascinating station, captured through the lens of my Nikon D3300 SLR.
From Grand Hub to Modern Convenience: The Original Slaithwaite Station
Imagine a bustling railway hub, teeming with activity. That was the original Slaithwaite Station, a much larger complex that first opened its doors. It boasted four platforms, all aligned and sheltered by canopies, complete with comfortable waiting areas. Beyond passenger services, it also featured a significant goods area – a testament to its importance in the local economy. In fact, the spot where today's Manchester-bound trains now pull in was once part of this expansive goods yard.
This original station thrived, remaining a popular and busy thoroughfare for passengers and freight alike. However, despite passionate local campaigns to keep it operational, it sadly closed its doors in October 1968. The fight didn't end there; residents continued to advocate for its return, even after the site was cleared. Their perseverance paid off, as, in the early 1980s, Metro (West Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive) announced plans to re-open the station.
The Rebirth: Slaithwaite's Modern Railway Station
Fast forward to December 1982, and a new chapter began for Slaithwaite. The station was officially re-opened, though in a very different form. The modern station features two platforms, subtly staggered on either side of Crimble Bank Bridge. While it may not have the grandeur of its predecessor, it serves the community effectively with step-free access to both platforms, a vital improvement for accessibility.
It's a testament to modern efficiency, with more limited facilities – you'll find basic cover, but no toilets or refreshments, and it's an unmanned station. Despite this, Slaithwaite remains a well-used stop, with passenger numbers in 2018/19 reaching 208,000 per year, averaging around 4,000 passengers weekly.
Capturing the Essence: Photography at Slaithwaite
On the 25th of July, 2020, I spent some time at Slaithwaite Railway Station, capturing its character with my Nikon D3300. These photographs, 15 in total, aim to highlight both the echoes of its past and the functionality of its present.
Slaithwaite Railway Station is more than just a place where trains stop; it's a living piece of local history, a reminder of community spirit, and a symbol of adaptation. It's a fantastic spot for any photography enthusiast interested in the intersection of transport and heritage.
Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.
Crimble Bank Bridge, the station's platforms are staggered either side of the structure. Platform 2 is accessed by the road to the left, Platform 2 on the other side of the bridge.
The steps can be seen opposite the entrance to platform 1 at the station. The lead up to housing on Bank Top.
The station entrance to the Manchester bound platform 2. The cobbled road used to lead up to the goods yard.
Train passing platform 1 for Huddersfield bound trains. Platform 1 sits upon the site of the original station which featured 4 platforms including a central island one. When the original station closed the line capacity was halved.
Platform 1
Platform 1 pictured from platform 2
Platform 2 occupies a site on the original station goods yard.
This artwork - bench can be found at the entrance to platform 1.
The pictures can be seen on YouTube, please take a moment to subscribe to my channel there.
Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Clickasnap and Photo4Me using the links below. Your support means a lot!
All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.
