The sepia-toned photographs, captured in 2014, offer a window into the timeless character of a truly historic building: The Navigation Inn in Sowerby Bridge. Nestled by the Calder and Hebble Navigation canal, the pub, affectionately known as "The Navi" by locals, is a place where history isn't just a story—it’s etched into the very stone walls.
The building itself is a Grade II listed structure, a testament to its architectural and historical significance. Its roots are said to extend as far back as the 15th century, and for a period, it was the site of the local Moot Hall, a place for local gatherings and the administration of justice. This means that for centuries, this very spot has been a hub of community life.
The current building likely dates from the early-mid 17th century, though it has seen its share of changes. In the late 18th century, it was converted into cottages with a weaving shop above, reflecting the region's booming textile industry. It was only in the early 19th century that it found its true calling as a public house, a conversion that was undoubtedly a direct result of the thriving canal trade.
The name "The Navigation" is, of course, a nod to its waterside location. The area was a key interchange point between the Calder & Hebble Navigation and the Rochdale Canal, making it a bustling centre of commerce. The bridge here, known as Chain Bridge, even had a chain fixed across it on Sundays to prevent boats from entering the wharf.
As you look at the images, you can almost hear the echoes of a bygone era—the clatter of horse-drawn carts, the murmur of lock-keepers, and the conversations of weary boatmen sharing a pint. The stone fireplace inside, with its "IMW 1722" inscription, serves as a tangible link to a specific moment in time, a reminder of John and Mary Wainhouse who once owned the house.
While The Navigation Inn has undoubtedly adapted to the modern world, offering a cosy retreat from the hustle and bustle of today, its true appeal lies in its enduring history. It's a place that connects the present to the past, a living monument to Sowerby Bridge's industrial and social heritage.
The pictures below were taken with Samsung Galaxy Tablet and Polaroid IS2132 in January 2014. Clicking any of the images should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.
