Step back in time to 1857, when a remarkable gift was bestowed upon the people of Halifax: The People's Park. Spanning 12.5 acres, this verdant oasis was the brainchild of the visionary Sir Francis Crossley, whose travels to New England had deeply impressed him with the beauty of integrating art and nature for public enjoyment. His dream was simple yet profound: 'to arrange art and nature so that they shall be within the walk of every working man in Halifax, that he shall go to take his stroll there after he has done his hard day's toil, and be able to get home without being tired.'
True to his word, Crossley opened the park's gates, and just a year later, in a testament to his philanthropic spirit, he formally transferred ownership to the Halifax Corporation. This was no ordinary handover; it came with a meticulously crafted set of 12 conditions, ensuring The People's Park would forever remain a sanctuary for the town's residents. These conditions paint a vivid picture of Crossley's intentions, creating a unique charter for the park's enduring use:
- A Sanctuary for All: The park was to be perpetually open to the public from sunrise (never before 6 am) until dusk, year-round, serving exclusively as a 'promenade' – a place for leisurely strolls and quiet contemplation.
- Preserving Tranquility: To maintain its peaceful atmosphere, boisterous activities like cricket, bowls, hockey, or even bathing were strictly prohibited. While bands could play on any day but Sunday, dancing was explicitly forbidden, emphasizing a serene environment.
- No Commercial Exploitation: Refreshments were not to be sold within the park, and perhaps most importantly, no charge would ever be made for admission. The park was also barred from being used for political or club meetings, anniversaries, or any private or municipal financial gain, truly cementing its status as a public trust.
- Enduring Maintenance & Oversight: Crossley ensured the park's longevity by stipulating that the Corporation must spend no less than £315 annually on its upkeep, covering grounds, buildings, bridges, statues, trees, shrubs, walks, and seats, as well as providing gardeners and keepers. This commitment was safeguarded by a powerful clause: should the Corporation ever fail in its duty to maintain the park, ownership would revert directly to Frank Crossley or his heirs.
- Architectural Integrity: Only necessary structures like summer houses or lodges were permitted, preserving the natural beauty and open spaces.
- Protection and Regulation: Finally, the Corporation was empowered to enforce regulations to protect the park's natural and built elements from damage.
These conditions stand as a testament to Sir Francis Crossley's foresight and generosity, shaping The People's Park into the cherished historical green space it remains today
The Pavilion.
Standing proudly on the park's grand terrace, the Pavilion is a true centrepiece, inaugurated on August 14th, 1860. Designed by G.H. Stokes, its elegance is crowned by a magnificent marble statue of the park's visionary founder, Sir Francis Crossley, forever commemorating his enduring gift to Halifax. Flanking the pavilion are two serene pools, each bearing profound inscriptions that reflect Crossley's inclusive philosophy: 'The rich and the poor meet together. The Lord is the maker of them all,' and 'Blessed be the Lord who daily loadeth us with benefits. Let no man seek his own but every man another's wealth.' These words not only adorn the structure but encapsulate the very spirit of the park.
The Terrace.
Adorning the grand terrace are exquisite statues and urns, a testament to the artistic vision of G.H. Stokes and the skilled hand of sculptor Francesco Bienaime. Originally, an elegant urn marked each end of the terrace, while a distinguished collection of figures was added over time. This classical assembly included the powerful Apollo (Son of Zeus), the graceful Dancing Girl, the Roman goddess Diana, the mighty Hercules, the enchanting Neapolitan Music Girl, the wise Sophocles, the adventurous Telemachus, and the beautiful Venus. Sadly, time, erosion, and vandalism have taken their toll, and not all of these magnificent works of art still stand today
The Crossley Fountain.
Dominating the park's central vista is the Crossley and Savile fountain, a testament to both original vision and later generosity. While the initial Crossley fountain was crafted by Simpson of Pimlico in 1864, it was completely replaced in 1914. That year, Sir Savile Crossley stepped forward to commission its successor, ensuring the park retained a grand central feature. Since then, the magnificent structure has carried both names, now famously known as the Savile and Crossley Fountain.
The Bandstand.
Imagine the sounds echoing from the bandstand, a charming testament to 19th-century design. Built in 1882, its robust frame of cast-iron and wood supports a unique zinc roof. In its early days, the bandstand's melodies were strictly reserved for weekdays – a fascinating glimpse into the social etiquette of the time, where Sunday afternoons in the park were likely intended for more subdued enjoyment.
Smith Sundial
The Grade II listed Smith Sundial, a remarkable timepiece in Halifax, carries a tale of unexpected beginnings. Originally commissioned and expertly fashioned by John Smith for Pocklington School, the sundial faced an unforeseen rejection. Thankfully, its journey didn't end there; Matthew Smith, a notable local politician, stepped in to acquire it, ultimately presenting this beautiful piece to the town of Halifax in 1873, where it has been a treasured landmark ever since
The Thorp Fountain.
A testament to Victorian philanthropy and design, the Thorp Fountain graces the park, a Grade II listed structure that once served as a vital public drinking fountain. Designed by John Hogg and donated by Joseph Thorp, its elegant form is complemented by a deeply reflective inscription: 'Thank God for water, Water is best.' While its connection to the water supply has since ceased, the fountain continues to tell a story of its origins, offering a tangible link to the park's early days
The Lake and Ponds.
Meandering gracefully along the eastern edge of the park lies a beautiful serpentine pond, often referred to as a lake. Spanning approximately 175 meters, it gently widens as it stretches from north to south, its waters reflecting the sky. Elegant Grade II listed cast-iron bridges arch charmingly over its tranquil surface, inviting visitors to pause and take in the view
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