A Tower of Passion: The Story Behind the Lumbutts Mill Water Tower Artwork

 Every piece of art tells a story, and this one is no different. My artwork of the Lumbutts Mill Water Tower is not just a depiction of a building; it's a conversation with history, a tribute to the passionate struggles that once defined this landscape.

The vibrant sunset colour scheme wasn't chosen at random. It's a deliberate artistic choice, a nod to the area's powerful and often turbulent past. The bold oranges and fiery reds are a direct reference to the 1838 Mankinholes Riots. The passion and fury of those events—fuelled by social and economic hardship—are symbolized in the intense, glowing light that seems to emanate from the tower itself. It's meant to evoke a feeling of simmering unrest and raw emotion.

The piece is a bridge between then and now. The Lumbutts Mill Water Tower, a sturdy structure that has witnessed decades of change, now stands as a quiet monument. By bathing it in the colours of a tumultuous sunset, the artwork gives the impression of a passion that still lingers in the air, a reminder that the history of this place is carved not just in stone, but in the spirit of the people who lived and fought here.

This isn't just a picture of a tower; it’s a representation of a moment in time, a feeling, and a history that deserves to be remembered. It’s a visual reminder that even the most stoic structures can hold within them the echo of human passion.

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The picture remains the copyright of Colin Green.

Timeless Beauty: The Watermill at Ixworth

There's a certain magic to an old watermill. It speaks of a time when life moved at a different pace, powered by the gentle, tireless flow of a river. The watermill at Ixworth, Suffolk, is one such place, a beautifully preserved piece of history that seems to exist outside of time.

This image, with its painterly, almost impressionistic quality, captures the mill's rustic charm. The weathered timber siding and the solid stone foundation tell a story of centuries of hard work and quiet endurance. You can almost hear the rhythmic groan of the mill wheel and the rush of water as it turns. The soft, muted colors and the textured feel of the photograph give it the quality of an old painting, as if it were a scene plucked from a history book and brought to life.

Surrounded by lush green foliage and golden grasses, the mill blends seamlessly into the Suffolk countryside. The small bridge leading to the main building invites you to cross, to step into a world of simple, rural life. It's a reminder of a time before modern machinery, when communities relied on the power of nature to grind their grain and sustain their lives.

This image is a tranquil escape, a moment of peace and reflection. It reminds us of the importance of preserving these historical treasures, not just as buildings but as living testaments to our past.

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Step Back in Time in Saltburn-by-the-Sea

There's something magical about a town that feels suspended in time, and Saltburn-by-the-Sea is one of them. Nestled on the North Yorkshire coast, this Victorian-era gem offers a nostalgic escape from the modern world, inviting you to wander through its history. Looking at these images, you can almost feel the sea spray and hear the echoes of generations of visitors enjoying the coast.

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The Pier and Promenade

The heart of Saltburn's coastal charm is its magnificent pier. Stretching out into the North Sea, it's a testament to Victorian engineering and a perfect place for a leisurely stroll. The old photos show it as a lively hub, with people dressed in period clothing enjoying the fresh sea air. This sense of timeless enjoyment remains today. The long wooden walkway, with its sturdy iron railings, feels like a bridge connecting the past and the present. It’s a wonderful place to watch the waves crash or simply take in the vast horizon.

The promenade below the pier is just as captivating. In these photos, you can see people gathering, strolling, and enjoying the lively atmosphere with the pier buildings and cliffs as a dramatic backdrop. It's a reminder of a bygone era when seaside towns were the ultimate destination for leisure.

The Saltburn Tramway

One of the most unique features of Saltburn is its Cliff Tramway. This funicular railway, seen in several of the images, is a marvel in itself. It was built to transport visitors from the town's elegant clifftop gardens down to the promenade and pier below. The tramway's charming little cabins look like they belong in a fairy tale, and its steep descent down the cliff face offers incredible views of the coast. It’s not just a ride; it’s an experience that tells the story of the town’s development as a Victorian resort.

A Tale of Two Cliffs

The pictures also beautifully capture the stunning geology of the area. On one side, you have the dramatic, crumbling slopes that the tramway descends, with the grand Zetland Hotel perched at the top like a crown. On the other, the imposing Hunt Cliff stands tall, its sheer face a striking contrast to the gentle curves of the beach.

Below Hunt Cliff, you can see the cluster of buildings that make up the Ship Inn. With its long history as a smugglers' haunt, the inn and the surrounding cottages feel rugged and authentic, perfectly blending into the landscape of the bay.

Saltburn-by-the-Sea is more than just a place; it's a journey. From the bustling pier and the historic tramway to the dramatic cliffs and the quaint cottages, every corner has a story to tell. It’s a place to slow down, breathe in the salty air, and appreciate a slice of coastal history.

These artworks are based on very old postcards, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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Luddenden Village in Art Images

Luddenden's story is inextricably linked to the Luddenden Brook, which flows through its very heart. First referenced in 1274 in connection with a humble corn mill, the village's identity began to shift over the following centuries. The rushing waters of the brook were harnessed to power a growing number of textile mills, transforming Luddenden from an agrarian settlement into a hub of industry. This history is etched into the very stones of the village, a constant reminder of its industrial past.

For centuries, Old Lane was the main artery connecting Luddenden to the wider world, a busy thoroughfare for travellers heading to and from Halifax. However, progress altered the village's trajectory. In the mid-18th century, a new turnpike road was built just half a mile to the south, diverting traffic and commerce. This new route led to the rise of Luddenden Foot, a separate village that grew up around the modern transportation link, leaving Luddenden to settle into a quieter, more residential existence.

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Echoes of the Past, Lingering Stories

Walking through Luddenden is like stepping back in time, with each landmark holding a piece of a larger narrative. The War Memorial stands as a solemn tribute to the combined communities of Luddenden and Midgley, a poignant reminder of their shared sacrifices. The towering presence of St. Mary's Church has watched over the village for generations, a spiritual and architectural centrepiece.

Perhaps one of the most intriguing connections to a bygone era lies within the walls of the Lord Nelson Inn. This historic pub was a regular haunt of Bramwell Brontë, the talented, yet troubled, brother of the famed literary sisters. His time spent working on the nearby railway led him to find solace and company at the inn, a detail that adds a fascinating, human touch to the village's lore.

Tragically, like many small villages, Luddenden has seen changes that have diminished its commercial life. Since the 1980s, the small shops and businesses that once served as the village's communal hubs have closed, leaving behind a collection of houses. While the village remains a beautiful place to live, it is a living example of a community that has evolved from a bustling centre of industry and commerce into a quiet, residential enclave, its history preserved in its stone buildings and timeless landscapes.

The images below were originally photo's that I have added various photoshop filters to create artworks. Clicking anyone of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The pictures below feature in the video above.

Old Lane was once part of the main packhorse route towards
Halifax, the M62 motorway of it's day until replaced by the turnpike
in the mid 18th century.

St Mary's Church.

The Luddenden Brook, this once helped to power of a dozen mills
for the textiles and corn (Flour) industries.

In the basement of the former St Mary's School, there were 3 holding cells,
although one has long since been removed. The 2 remaining have the townships
of Midgley and Warley inscribed in the lintel. The nearby Luddenden Brook
was the boundary between the 2, the removed cell is said to have had
Luddenden inscribed above it, no evidence remains. The cells were built
along with the school in 1825 and are not thought to have held occupants
since the 19th century.

The steps disused since the late 80's early 90's once provided
access to the offices of a mill that once occupied the site. Much
of the mill was demolished and replaced by housing.

Luddenden Brook and High Street Bridge.

Luddenden & Midgley War Memorial, unviled 1923.

Lord Nelson Inn from the churchyard of St Mary's.

High Street, Luddenden, the building towards the bottom was
the offices for the steps pictured earlier.

Inside St Mary's Church.

Luddenden Brook.

A closed off stone doorway alongside Luddenden Brook.

A memorial wheel to represent the ones that the corn mill that
once occupied the valley would have used.

Former Water Horse Trough at the bottom of Stocks Lane.

This cobbled yard is actually a bridge over Luddenden Brook, providing
access from High Street to High Street Court.

Lord Nelson Inn.

St Mary's Church clock tower.

Luddenden brook flows over the weir viewed from the churchyard
of St Mary's.

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All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Brighton Piers in Art Sketches

The Haunting Grandeur of Brighton's West Pier

Once a jewel of Victorian engineering and a bustling hub of seaside entertainment, the West Pier now stands as a haunting, skeletal silhouette off the coast of Brighton. Its current state of dereliction belies a rich and fascinating history, a testament to changing tastes, natural forces, and the passage of time.

Opened to the public on October 6, 1866, the West Pier was not Brighton's first; it followed the elegant Royal Suspension Chain Pier. However, it quickly carved out its own niche, becoming a beloved landmark. Its initial design, a marvel of cast iron and intricate detailing, was expanded in 1893, demonstrating its growing popularity. The addition of a magnificent concert hall during the First World War marked the pier's zenith. During this period, it buzzed with life, offering everything from theatrical performances and musical concerts to leisurely strolls and bracing sea air. It was a place where generations made memories, a vibrant cornerstone of Brighton's identity as a premier resort town.

However, the inter-war years brought a gradual decline in the pier's fortunes. Shifting holiday trends, economic pressures, and the rising popularity of other forms of entertainment chipped away at its dominance. By 1975, the difficult decision was made to close the pier to the public, marking the end of its active service.

What followed was a period of tragic neglect. Exposed to the relentless power of the sea and the elements, the pier began a slow, inevitable disintegration. Sections collapsed into the waves at various times, each loss a poignant reminder of its former glory. The new millennium brought particularly devastating blows. A major storm in 2002 inflicted extensive structural damage, leaving the pier a twisted wreck. As if nature's assault wasn't enough, a series of mysterious fires soon after sealed its fate, rendering any hope of restoration utterly futile. The iconic concert hall, once a beacon of entertainment, was reduced to a charred shell.

Despite its ruinous state, the West Pier holds a unique and protected place in architectural history. In 1982, it was awarded Grade I listed status, an extraordinary recognition that it remains the only pier in the United Kingdom to have received this highest level of protection. This designation acknowledges its exceptional architectural and historical significance, even in its decaying form. It stands as a powerful symbol of Victorian ambition and a poignant monument to the impermanence of even the grandest structures.

Today, the remains of the West Pier evoke a sense of melancholic beauty, a silhouette against the horizon that sparks curiosity and reflection. This artwork of its haunting remnants captures this very essence, a tribute to a structure that refuses to be forgotten, even as it crumbles into the sea.

West Pier Remains, Brighton

Brighton Palace Pier: A Victorian Icon Endures

From Humble Beginnings to Enduring Landmark:

Standing proudly against the Sussex sky, the Brighton Palace Pier isn't just a pier; it's a vibrant, living testament to Victorian ingenuity and a beloved symbol of Brighton's enduring charm. While Brighton once boasted a trio of magnificent piers, it is the Palace Pier, the third to grace the city's coastline, that remains – a sole survivor in a story of architectural ambition and the relentless passage of time. Opened in 1899, it quickly became a focal point for leisure and entertainment, building upon the legacy of its predecessors, the Chain Pier and the West Pier, which have sadly succumbed to the elements and the ravages of time.

A Pillar of History: Grade II Listed Status and Beyond:

Its historical significance was formally recognized on August 20th, 1971, when the Brighton Palace Pier was deservedly granted Grade II listed status. This designation isn't merely a bureaucratic formality; it's a powerful acknowledgment of its architectural merit, its cultural importance, and its irreplaceable role in the nation's heritage. This status protects its unique character, ensuring that future generations can continue to experience its grandeur and enjoy its timeless appeal. Imagine the countless footsteps that have trodden its wooden boards, the laughter that has echoed through its pavilions, and the memories that have been forged against the backdrop of its iconic silhouette.

More Than Just a Structure: A Thriving Hub of Entertainment:

To this day, the Brighton Palace Pier remains an undeniable magnet for tourists, drawing millions annually. It's far more than just a historical structure; it's a bustling microcosm of traditional seaside entertainment. The rhythmic clang of arcade games, the tantalizing aroma of fish and chips, the joyful screams from thrilling rides, and the panoramic views of the English Channel all coalesce to create an unforgettable sensory experience. From the classic helter-skelter and carousel to more modern, adrenaline-pumping attractions, the pier caters to every age and taste, embodying the very spirit of a quintessential British seaside holiday.

A Legacy of Resilience and Reinvention:

Its continued popularity is a testament to its remarkable resilience. It has weathered countless storms, both literal and metaphorical, adapting and evolving with the changing times while steadfastly retaining its quintessential Victorian charm. The Brighton Palace Pier is a living museum, a historical landmark, and a vibrant entertainment complex all rolled into one. It stands as a proud sentinel guarding Brighton's coastline, inviting visitors to step back in time while simultaneously embracing the excitement of the present, ensuring its place as a cherished icon for generations to come.

Brighton Palace Pier

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Churn Milk Joan: A Calder Valley Mystery (Artwork)

High on Midgley Moor, with the stunning Calder Valley sprawling below, stands a silent sentinel known as Churn Milk Joan. This impressive standing stone, also called Churn Milk Peg or Nelmires Stoop, reaches a height of approximately 7 feet, a towering testament to centuries of history.

Thought to have been erected as a boundary marker, its presence has been documented as far back as the 17th century. Imagine, for a moment, the countless generations who have walked past this stone, each with their own stories and their own connection to this rugged landscape.

The name "Churn Milk Joan" itself is steeped in local legend, believed to have originated in the early 19th century. It's said to be a poignant tribute to a milkmaid who tragically froze to death while attempting to cross the treacherous moor during a severe snowstorm, making her way from Peckett Well to Luddenden. A sombre reminder of the harsh realities faced by those who lived and worked on these unforgiving lands.

But Churn Milk Joan isn't just a historical relic; it's also a focal point for some fascinating local legends. One popular belief is that leaving a penny in the depression on top of the stone will bring you good luck. So, if you ever visit, perhaps try your luck and contribute to this ongoing tradition!

Another intriguing claim, steeped in mystery, suggests that the stone spins three times on New Year's Eve. This magical rotation is said to occur when the bells of St. Michael's Church in Mytholmroyd can be heard echoing around it. What makes this even more remarkable is that the stone is thought to predate the church by a couple of hundred years, adding another layer to the mystique surrounding this ancient monument.

Churn Milk Joan is more than just a stone; it's a window into the past, a keeper of local folklore, and a testament to the enduring spirit of the Calder Valley. Next time you're exploring the moors, keep an eye out for this captivating landmark and perhaps even leave a penny for good measure!

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