Perched above the Ovenden Valley in Halifax, a remarkable ruin stands as a silent sentinel to a bygone era. Old Lane Mill, a towering stone structure with gaping windows and a prominent chimney, isn't just another abandoned building; it's a piece of living history. Built in 1825 by visionary textile manufacturer James Akroyd, this mill holds the distinction of being the oldest surviving multi-story, steam-powered, iron-framed textile mill in Halifax, and quite possibly, the entire United Kingdom.
A Glimpse into the Past
Old Lane Mill was a marvel of its time, a testament to industrial innovation. Akroyd wasn't content with traditional building methods. He pioneered the use of a cutting-edge iron frame and durable stone floors to support the massive weight of his newly acquired Jacquard looms—the first to be used in Britain. These revolutionary looms allowed for the creation of intricate patterns and marked a pivotal moment in textile production.
Despite its sturdy construction, the mill wasn't entirely fireproof. A devastating fire in 1905 caused significant damage, but the mill was resilient and continued to operate, changing hands and adapting over the decades. It even became a part of the larger Dean Clough Mill complex for a time, a testament to its enduring legacy.
The Present and the Future
Today, Old Lane Mill is a dramatic and poignant sight. Time and vandalism have taken their toll, leaving the building a hollow shell. Yet, even in its derelict state, the mill retains a powerful presence. The broken roof, empty window frames, and the massive engine house with its soaring chimney tell a story of a once-thriving industrial heart. Nature is slowly reclaiming the site, with trees and shrubs sprouting from the walls and a peaceful brook, the Ovenden Brook, flowing beneath the mill's remains, as if a life-giving force in the midst of decay.
The future of Old Lane Mill is uncertain, but there is hope. Its historical significance has made it a priority for preservation efforts. Whether it's ultimately restored or repurposed, it's clear that this mill deserves to be remembered and honoured. It stands as a profound reminder of Halifax's rich textile heritage and the ingenuity of those who built its industrial foundation.
I took these pictures on the 15th April 2015 with a Polaroid is2132 camera. Clicking anyone of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography Store on Zazzle.
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| The water outlet stands just to the south of Old Lane Mill, it carries the Ovenden Brook underneath the mill and probably provided some of the power source for the mill historically. |
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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green. Please don't take the approach of an estate agent who a few years ago was marketing the mill and decided to use my pictures without permission, suitable recompense and no credit. The not even bothering to credit me really was the most annoying bit.
