Built on Generosity: The Story of Crossley Heath School

There's something special about a New Year's Day walk. The air is crisp, the world feels quiet, and it's a perfect time to reflect and discover. While out for a stroll on January 1st, 2019, I came across a magnificent Victorian building on the edge of Savile Park Moor—the Crossley Heath School. The images I captured, taken with my Nikon d3300 SLR, don't just show a school; they show a piece of living history.

This stunning architectural gem, with its intricate details and imposing presence, has a fascinating past. The story begins with the philanthropic Crossley family—John, Joseph, and Francis—who had a significant impact on the town of Halifax. They commissioned architects Paull & Aycliffe and John Hogg to design the Crossley Orphan School and Home, which opened its doors on June 29, 1864. Built at the impressive cost of £65,000, the orphanage was a sanctuary for children in need.

It provided free lodging, clothing, and education for 400 to 500 children. Boys could stay until age 15 and girls until 17, giving them a chance at a better future.

The school's name changed over time, reflecting its evolving purpose and benefactors. In 1879, a generous £50,000 donation from Manchester merchant Thomas Porter led to a new name: the Crossley & Porter Orphan Home and School. The school's mission continued to adapt, and in 1919, it began admitting day pupils, becoming simply the Crossley & Porter School.

The final chapter in its name change came in 1985 when it merged with Heath Grammar School to become the Crossley Heath School we know today.

Standing before this building, you can't help but feel a sense of awe at the vision of its founders and the many lives it has touched. It's a powerful reminder of how a single structure can hold so many stories.

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The artwork below is the result of a play about with the neural filters on photoshop.

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