Remembering Walkley Clog Mill (Canal Wharf Mills)

Nestled between the bustling towns of Hebden Bridge and Mytholmroyd, a silent sentinel of the industrial past once stood: Walkley Clog Mill, also known as Canal Wharf Mills. These images capture the mill in its later years, a testament to its imposing presence and the passage of time before its tragic destruction by fire.

From these photographs, we can discern the formidable stone structure of the mill, characteristic of the industrial architecture of the Pennine region. Its multi-story facade, punctuated by numerous windows, some sadly broken or boarded up, speaks to a history of industry and the hands that once toiled within its walls. The sheer scale of the building is evident, dominating the landscape and hinting at the significant role it played in the local economy.

One image shows the mill standing proudly alongside the River Calder, which would have been a vital source of power and transport for the mill's operations. The juxtaposition of the weathered stone and the verdant foliage, with trees and undergrowth reclaiming parts of the structure, paints a picture of a building slowly being absorbed back into nature.

Another perspective reveals its prominent roadside position, suggesting its accessibility and importance as a hub of activity. The surrounding landscape, with its characteristic hills and greenery, further emphasizes the mill's integration into the rugged beauty of the Calder Valley.

While the images capture a building in decline, they also hint at its former grandeur and the stories it held within its thick stone walls. Walkley Clog Mill was more than just a building; it was a living piece of local history, a tangible link to the area's clog-making heritage and broader industrial past.

Sadly, this iconic landmark met a devastating end, consumed by fire. These photographs serve as a poignant reminder of what was lost, allowing us to reflect on the mill's architectural character, its historical significance, and the enduring legacy of the industries that shaped this corner of West Yorkshire. Though the mill itself is gone, its memory, and the stories embedded in its very foundations, continue to echo through the valley.

I took these pictures with a Nikon d3300 on the 21st July 2018, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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The pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Echoes in Stone: Exploring the Forgotten Beauty of Wainhouse Terrace

 There are places that whisper stories of the past, their stones imbued with the echoes of lives lived and forgotten. Wainhouse Terrace in King Cross, Halifax, is one such place. Tucked away near the impressive Wainhouse Tower, this intriguing structure, often overlooked, offers a captivating glimpse into Victorian ambition and nature's relentless embrace.

Walking along what was once a grand promenade, you can't help but feel a sense of serene melancholy. The sturdy stone walls, once meticulously maintained, now bear the marks of time and weather. Overgrown pathways, with creeping vines and wild grasses reclaiming the carefully laid bricks, lead you deeper into its forgotten corridors. Sunlight filters through the leafy canopy, casting dappled shadows on decaying facades and hinting at the structure's former glory.

The architectural details are still striking – the robust columns, arched doorways, and intricate stonework speak of a time when craftsmanship was paramount. Yet, juxtaposed against this solid construction is the pervasive sense of decay. Broken flagstones lie scattered, testament to the years of neglect. Staircases, some spiralling into hidden depths, beckon the curious, while others lead to nowhere, their purpose long since lost to the overgrowth.

Perhaps the most poignant aspect is the way nature has intertwined itself with the man-made. Trees sprout from unexpected crevices, their roots slowly but surely asserting their dominance. Greenery cascades over walls and through empty window frames, transforming the rigid lines of the architecture into a softer, wilder landscape. It's a powerful reminder of nature's ability to reclaim, to soften edges, and to eventually, gracefully consume.

Even with its current state of disrepair, Wainhouse Terrace holds a unique allure for those drawn to urban exploration, forgotten places, and the beauty of decay. It’s a photographer's dream, with its dramatic contrasts of light and shadow, the starkness of stone against the vibrancy of green. And in the distance, often peering through the trees, the iconic Wainhouse Tower stands as a stoic sentinel, a silent witness to the passage of time and the changing fortunes of its smaller, more intimate neighbour.

Wainhouse Terrace isn't just a collection of old buildings; it's a testament to history, a canvas for nature's artistry, and a place that invites contemplation about the transient nature of human endeavours. If you find yourself in Halifax, venture off the beaten path and discover the quiet, captivating beauty of this forgotten gem. You might just find yourself lost in its echoes, and all the richer for the experience.

I took these pictures on the 3rd October 2017 with a Nikon d3300, clicking on any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Skies Over Old Kent Road: A Glimpse of the Everyday Sublime

 There's something uniquely captivating about the skies above London. Even in the most urban of settings, where concrete and industry dominate the landscape, moments of unexpected beauty can emerge. This shot, taken On Verney Road, a short walk off the bustling Old Kent Road, perfectly encapsulates that feeling.

At first glance, it's a typical industrial backdrop. We see the silhouette of a chimney stack reaching skyward, a testament to the area's working-class heritage and ongoing activity. To the right, the skeletal frame of a crane hints at development and change – a constant in this ever-evolving city. And of course, the dark, angular roofline of a building grounds the scene, providing a sense of scale.

But then, your eyes lift, and the magic happens. The expansive sky, a canvas of soft blues and gentle greys, stretches out above. A lone aeroplane, a tiny speck against the vastness, slices through the air, leaving a crisp white contrail in its wake. This fleeting line, a temporary scar on the heavens, speaks of journeys, connections, and the invisible pathways that crisscross our world.

It's a reminder that even amidst the grit and grime of city life, there are always elements of grace and grandeur. The sky, unburdened by the earthly structures below, offers a sense of freedom and perspective. It's a place where dreams take flight, quite literally, and where the mundane can momentarily transform into something profound.

Next time you're navigating the familiar chaos of the Old Kent Road, take a moment to look up. You might just catch your own glimpse of the everyday sublime.

I took this picture with a Nikon d3300 on the 28th April 2016, clicking it should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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The picture remains the copyright of Colin Green.

The River Thames: From Woolwich Ferry's Perspective

 There's something uniquely captivating about the River Thames, a historic artery that winds its way through the heart of London. And one of the most intriguing ways to experience its dynamic character is from the deck of the Woolwich Ferry. In April 2016, armed with my trusty Nikon d3300, I had the pleasure of capturing a few moments from this vantage point, revealing different facets of the river and its surroundings.

The first view, looking eastward from the ferry terminal, offered a classic London panorama. Under a bright blue sky dotted with fluffy clouds, the river stretched out towards the horizon. The iconic silhouette of the Canary Wharf skyline dominated the distant cityscape, a testament to London's ever-evolving urban landscape. Closer to the shore, the muddy banks at low tide hinted at the river's tidal nature, while a lone vessel navigated the waterways, adding a touch of life to the scene. The low, yellow-tinged wall of the ferry terminal in the foreground served as a constant reminder of our unique position.

Then, as the ferry embarked on its journey, the perspective shifted. Looking eastward from the ferry itself, the glint of sunlight on the water was mesmerizing. The sun, lower in the sky, cast shimmering reflections across the waves, creating a dazzling path of light. The buildings along the river's edge, slightly silhouetted by the brightness, appeared as a continuous urban ribbon, hinting at the bustling life beyond the water's edge. The movement of the ferry created ripples, adding to the dynamic visual of the river.

Finally, a view of the North Shore from the moving ferry presented a different kind of tranquillity. The sun, less direct, allowed for a clearer view of the buildings lining the northern bank. The water here seemed calmer, with broader stretches of deep blue. The presence of other boats, including what appeared to be other ferries or workboats, reinforced the Thames as a working river, constantly in motion. The overall impression was one of vastness and continuity, with the river flowing steadily onward.

These snapshots, taken from the unique vantage point of the Woolwich Ferry, truly capture the essence of the River Thames – a blend of historical grandeur, modern urbanity, natural beauty, and ceaseless activity. It's a journey that offers a fresh perspective on a familiar landmark, and one I highly recommend for anyone looking to see London from a different angle.

Clicking any of the images above should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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All the photographs remain the copyright of Colin Green.