Asquith Bottom Mill: A Sowerby Bridge Survivor

The former Asquith Bottom Mill in Sowerby Bridge stands as a powerful testament to the region's industrial past, a hulking monument of brick and stone that has adapted to the changing times. These images, taken in April 2017, capture the mill complex in its current state as a mixed-use industrial estate, a fascinating blend of old and new.

A Legacy of Industry

Asquith Bottom Mill has a rich history, serving various purposes over the years, from a carpet mill to a wire and woollen mill. It was originally built by the Edlestons family, a name that many locals will recall with fondness. For those who grew up in the area during the 1980s, the sight of a vibrant red neon sign bearing the Edlestons name across the roof is a cherished memory, a beacon of a bygone era that has sadly since been removed. The mill's closure in the late 1980s and early 1990s marked the end of a significant chapter for the area.

The photographs from 2017 reveal the sheer scale and character of the mill. The wide-angle shot shows the full facade of the main building, its rows of large, multi-paned windows a classic feature of mill architecture. The lower buildings in the foreground, with cars parked alongside, indicate the complex's modern function, a bustling hub for various businesses.

A Walk Through Time

Walking through the mill complex is like stepping into a living museum. One of the images captures a narrow ginnel or alleyway that runs between two buildings, with an overhead passageway connecting them. This architectural feature, common in industrial complexes of this size, speaks to a time when goods and people needed to move efficiently between different parts of the mill.

The details are what truly tell the story. A photograph of the building's exterior, shot at an upward angle, highlights the patina of age on the stone and the faded, closed-off windows, some of which still have their original frames. Another striking image, a black and white shot with a splash of red, focuses on a set of external stairs. These "red stairs," a pop of colour against the otherwise monochrome backdrop of the brickwork, lead up the side of one of the buildings, a dramatic and eye-catching feature that evokes a sense of both the mill's grand past and its slow, inevitable decline.

Asquith Bottom Mill, much like the surrounding landscape of Sowerby Bridge, is a symbol of resilience. It is a place that has not been forgotten but has been given a new purpose, a place where the echoes of industrial looms and the footsteps of mill workers still linger, even as new businesses thrive within its walls. These photographs serve as a poignant reminder of its past and a celebration of its enduring legacy.

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A vibrant memory from the mill's past stands in stark contrast to its present-day industrial hustle. Where the cars now sit parked in front of the mill, there once was a lush bowling green, a green oasis across the River Ryburn. The most striking change, however, was the mill's rooftop. For years, the building was crowned with a brilliant red neon sign that proudly displayed the W.M. Edlestons name—a familiar, glowing landmark that lit up the Sowerby Bridge skyline.

Once, goods and materials were hoisted to and from these doorways, but now, a lone hoist support juts out from the old brickwork, a silent reminder of the mill’s industrious past.

This picture was taken from the Norland hillside towards the back of the building. I don't imagine other than for safety checks that fire escape has been used in many years.

 

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Washer Lane Aqueduct: A Hidden Relic of Halifax's Industrial Past

Tucked away at the entrance to the Washer Lane Industrial Estate in Halifax, a remarkable piece of local history stands as a silent sentinel. The Washer Lane Aqueduct, built between 1856 and 1873, is a striking relic from the town's booming industrial era. These images, captured on a lush June day in 2023, reveal its unique character and the fascinating story behind it.

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A Landmark Built by an Industrialist

The aqueduct was constructed during the period when John Edward Wainhouse owned the Washer Lane Dyeworks. Wainhouse, a prominent figure in Halifax's industrial landscape, is perhaps best known for building the Wainhouse Tower, a flamboyant folly that dominates the local skyline . The aqueduct, while far less ornate, shares a similar connection to his industrial legacy.

The initials "J.E.W." are visible carved into the keystone of the arch, a personal touch that marks the structure as Wainhouse's creation. The aqueduct was originally built to carry water across the access road, a crucial component for the dyeworks which required a constant and clean supply of water for their operations.

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A Quiet End to an Era

The dyeworks closed in 1896, and with its closure, the aqueduct's purpose came to an end. It has stood since as a picturesque, if unused, feature of the landscape. Without access to the top of the structure and with limited information available, it's safe to assume that the aqueduct no longer carries water.

Today, the aqueduct spans the top entrance road to the industrial estate, which runs down from Upper Washer Lane. The old cobbled road, flanked by high, moss-covered stone walls, passes directly beneath its stone arch. The entire scene feels like a journey back in time, a quiet corner of the valley where nature is slowly reclaiming the old industrial stonework.

The aqueduct is a hidden gem, a small but significant piece of Halifax's history that reminds us of the ingenuity and ambition of the industrialists who shaped the Calder Valley. It's a testament to a time when water was the lifeblood of industry and a reminder that even the most functional of structures can become a thing of beauty over time.

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The initials of John Edward Wainhouse can be seen on the centre stone of the aqueduct. Wainhouse owned the dye works from 1856 when he inherited them until he sold it to Henry Mossman in 1873. Because of the initials I think the aqueduct must date from this 17 year period.

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A Walk in the Rain: Exploring Brearley and the Route 66 Cycleway

There’s a unique beauty to the Calder Valley when it's raining. The greens become richer, the stone walls darker, and the atmosphere takes on a moody, contemplative quality. My recent walk, a loop starting from home in Sowerby Bridge and leading through Boulderclough and Mytholmroyd before returning along the Route 66 cycleway, offered a perfect, if soggy, opportunity to experience this.

The Murder Stone: A Dark Tale on a Pleasant Path

The Route 66 cycleway, is a well-loved trail for cyclists and walkers alike. As you pass through the hamlet of Brearley, just south of the railway bridge, you encounter a fascinating and rather macabre piece of local history: the memorial to William Deighton.

The "murder stone," as it's known, is a solemn reminder of a brutal crime. The memorial commemorates William Deighton, a tax inspector who was killed in Halifax while investigating the notorious coin counterfeiter "King" David Hartley and his gang. The stone, with its weathered, skeletal carving and a fragment of text, stands as a chilling artifact of a time when the law in this part of Yorkshire was a dangerous business. The photographs capture the stone in its atmospheric setting, nestled in the long grass beside the path, a quiet and unexpected monument to a violent past.

The path is part of the Route 66 cycleway (bridleway), with the railway bridge seen at the top of the picture and the green metal wall.

Underneath the skeletal artwork reads the following: A full and true account of a barborous, bloody, and inhuman murder. There is further artwork below this writing.

A Shelter, and a Soaking

Carrying on my walk past the former chapel, now converted into apartments, and through the heart of Brearley, the skies opened up. The rain, which had been threatening all morning, finally began to pour. Seeking shelter, I ducked under the arch of the Wheatley Royd Farm Bridge. It was a temporary reprieve, a dry spot from which I could watch the rain stream down the stone walls of the bridge and form rivulets on the path. The view from under the bridge, a framed shot of the lush, wet greenery beyond, was a beautiful moment of calm.

However, after nearly 30 minutes of waiting, with my weather app stubbornly refusing to offer any hope of a quick clearing, I conceded defeat. The path ahead called, and there was nothing for it but to embrace the inevitable soaking.

The images from the walk, from the striking memorial to the moody, rain-soaked landscapes of the Calder Valley, tell the story of the day perfectly. They capture the unique blend of history, nature, and unexpected weather that makes walking in West Yorkshire such a rewarding experience, even when you end up soaked to the skin.

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Christ Church, Sowerby Bridge: A Winter Wonderland of History

Against a backdrop of snow-dusted hills and a brilliant blue sky, Christ Church in Sowerby Bridge stands as a magnificent sentinel. These images, captured on a crisp March day in 2018, show the church in a rare and beautiful state, its historic stone and Gothic features enhanced by a fresh layer of winter white.

A New Church for a Growing Town

Christ Church's story is one of community spirit and forward-thinking. Built in 1821 by architect John Oates, it was the culmination of over two decades of dedicated fundraising. The growing population of Sowerby Bridge had outstripped the capacity of the old Brigg Chapel, which had served the town since 1526, and a new, larger place of worship was needed.

Despite its completion in 1821, the church's official consecration was delayed until 1824, a small footnote in the grander tale of its creation. The photographs beautifully showcase the church's impressive architecture, from its towering steeple and clock face to the intricate detailing of its windows and buttresses.

A History of Adaptation and Resilience

Christ Church has not remained static since its construction. It has been remodelled, extended, and refurbished multiple times to meet the changing needs of its congregation. A particularly dramatic moment in its history occurred in 1895, when a fire ravaged the chancel, roof, and organ. The church was gutted but not defeated, and the community rallied once again to restore it to its former glory.

Inside, the church holds treasures from other nearby places of worship that have since closed. This practice of repurposing and relocating items speaks to the deep sense of history and continuity within the Anglican faith in this area, ensuring that pieces of the past are not lost but are given a new home and a new purpose.

The Story of the Graveyard

The churchyard has a history all its own. In 1857, the Secretary to Queen Victoria ordered its closure due to public health concerns and fears of disease. Despite this official order, burials are said to have continued for over a century, with the last known burial being John Eddie Bottomley in 1960. The images show the snow-covered landscape of the graveyard, a peaceful and sombre place that holds the final resting places of generations of Sowerby Bridge residents.

The view from above, overlooking the church and the snow-dusted landscape, is particularly striking. It frames Christ Church as a landmark, a prominent feature in the valley that has witnessed the town's evolution from a small settlement into a bustling community.

These photographs, taken with a Nikon d3300, capture not just a building, but a living piece of history. Christ Church, Sowerby Bridge, with its history of fundraising, fire, and resilience, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of its community, its story etched in stone, and its beauty enhanced by the quiet blanket of a winter's day.

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The Rochdale Canal once flowed through the junction pictured, with its church tower overlooking Lock Number 3. However, this section was infilled sometime in the late 1940s or early 1950s, and Tuel Lane was built over it.

The canal was successfully reopened in 1996, but a new approach was needed. A tunnel was constructed underneath the junction, and Locks 3 and 4 were replaced by the deepest canal lock in the United Kingdom, built a short distance to the west of the original Lock 3.

The steps leading up to the church are a recent addition, constructed as part of a road-widening project. The church clock was installed in 1839.

This photo wouldn't have been possible just a few years ago. The view was completely blocked by York House, a block of maisonettes with a poor reputation. The building was torn down around the turn of the millennium, and the area where it once stood is now an overgrown, abandoned plot.

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Resilience and Renewal: The Story of St. Michael's Church, Mytholmroyd

Nestled by the banks of the River Calder, St. Michael's Church in Mytholmroyd stands as a testament to both architectural heritage and community resilience. These images, captured in October 2013, show a church that is both a historical landmark and an integral part of the local landscape.

A Product of a Pious Plan

St. Michael's Church, officially known as Mytholmroyd Parish Church, was consecrated on September 8, 1848. Its very existence is tied to a significant piece of British history: the 1820 Church Building Act. This scheme, informally dubbed the "Million Pound Church Act," was a concerted effort by the government and public to construct new churches in areas of population growth, a response to a period of stagnation in church building since the early 18th century.

Funds for the project came from a combination of government contributions and public subscriptions, with a notable portion derived from the war indemnity collected after the Napoleonic Wars. This unique funding source led to these new churches being known by various names, including "Commissioners Churches" and "Waterloo Churches." St. Michael's, with its Gothic Revival style and sturdy stone construction, is a perfect example of this era of ecclesiastical architecture.

A History of Adaptation

Like many historic churches, St. Michael's has undergone changes to meet the needs of its community. The church was extended in 1888, and a two-story Sunday School was added soon after. This school building was later reduced to a single story and converted into the church hall in the 1970s, a practical adaptation that ensured the building remained a functional space for the congregation.

The photographs show the church and its sprawling graveyard, with gravestones of varying ages and styles, each a record of a life lived in Mytholmroyd. The path meanders through the markers, leading the eye to the imposing church tower, complete with its clock face, and the surrounding, verdant landscape of the Calder Valley.

Facing the Flood

A more recent and dramatic chapter in the church's history is its encounter with the devastating Boxing Day floods of 2015. The River Calder, usually a tranquil presence beside the church, rose to unprecedented levels, submerging the building under more than four feet of water. This was the most significant flooding St. Michael's had faced since the 1940s and led to a prolonged closure of nearly two years.

The community rallied around the church, however, demonstrating an incredible spirit of resilience. The extensive damage was repaired, and the church was rededicated and reopened, stronger than ever. This experience has led to a greater focus on flood prevention, with new work taking place along the riverbanks to protect the church and the wider community from future deluges.

The images from 2013, taken before this event, capture the church in a moment of peace, a beautiful reminder of the calm before the storm. They show the River Calder flowing serenely by, the church standing proudly on its bank, and the community it serves laid out before it. St. Michael's Church is more than a building; it is a symbol of faith, a repository of history, and a testament to the enduring spirit of Mytholmroyd.

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The River Calder flowing past St Michael's, a little over 2 years later the river burst its banks and rose to approx 4ft above the floor of the church. The buildings to the left were so severely damaged they were demolished shortly after and now it is an open space between Burnley Road and the River.

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A Walk Across the Co-operative Bridge, Sowerby Bridge

In the heart of Sowerby Bridge, where industrial heritage meets the tranquil flow of water, lies a little-known but historically significant structure: the Co-operative Bridge. These images, captured on a chilly December day in 2013, reveal its character and the unique vantage point it offers over the landscape.

A Bridge of Industry and Connection

The Co-operative Bridge serves as a vital pedestrian link, connecting the Industrial Road and Hollins Mill areas of Sowerby Bridge. Its name, "Co-operative Bridge," suggests a connection to the town's rich history of co-operative societies, a movement that played a huge role in the lives of the working-class communities in this region. While the exact age of the bridge is uncertain, its appearance on maps dating back to the 1870s places it firmly in the late Victorian era, a time of immense industrial growth in the Calder Valley.

The photographs highlight the bridge's intricate ironwork railings, a testament to the craftsmanship of the period. The black-and-white image accentuates the geometric patterns of the railings, creating a striking perspective that draws the eye down the path.

A Unique Perspective

The bridge's primary function is to span the Rochdale Canal, a waterway that was once a bustling artery of trade and transport. The images from the bridge, looking out over the canal, are particularly compelling. The calm, reflective surface of the water, a stark contrast to the rusty, peeling paint on the bridge's own railing, captures the beauty of the canal in winter.

Interestingly, despite crossing the canal, the bridge offers no direct access to the towpath below. The steep steps on either side, one set descending from Industrial Road and another from the Hollins Mill side, lead only to the bridge itself, a curious design feature that underscores its singular purpose as a connector between two distinct areas rather than a thoroughfare for canal-goers.

The View from Above

From the Co-operative Bridge, you get a beautiful, almost panoramic view of the Rochdale Canal as it carves its way through the landscape. The photographs show the waterway stretching out, flanked by the towpath and the distinctive architecture of Sowerby Bridge's old mill buildings. The rugged, overgrown banks and the bare trees of winter add a sense of wild, natural beauty to the industrial scene.

The last of the images, captures a wider view of the canal, with the hills of the valley visible in the distance. The blue sky peeking through the clouds and the sunlight glinting off the water create a serene and peaceful scene, a stark contrast to the gritty, industrial feel of the bridge itself.

The Co-operative Bridge is a small but significant piece of Sowerby Bridge's fabric. It is a reminder of the town's industrial past, a functional link for its present, and a testament to the enduring character of its landscape. It may not be a grand landmark, but for those who know it, it is a bridge with a story to tell.

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Looking across the bridge towards the Industrial Road area.

The Rochdale Canal towards Sowerby Bridge.

The bridge pictured from the Industrial Road end.

The steps down from the bridge to Hollins Mill Lane.

The Rochdale Canal towards Luddendenfoot from the bridge. The famous Puzzle Hall Inn can be seen to the left of the canal.

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From Malting House to Learning Centre: The Enduring Legacy of The Maltings, Halifax

The Maltings in Halifax is a building with a rich and layered history, its sturdy stone walls holding the memories of a bygone industrial era. These images, captured on a grey February day in 2014, showcase its imposing and unique architecture, a testament to its former life as a vital component of the Webster's Brewery Fountain Head complex.

A Glimpse into Industrial Heritage

Built in 1898, The Maltings was once at the heart of the brewing industry in Ovenden Wood. Webster's Brewery, a name synonymous with Halifax's industrial past, had operated from the Fountain Head site since the mid-1800s. The Maltings was where the magic began—where barley was steeped and germinated, a crucial first step in the brewing process. The building's distinctive oast-house-like kilns, seen prominently in the photographs, are a beautiful reminder of this function.

The brewery's closure in 1996 marked the end of an era. The site was redeveloped for housing, but thanks to its Grade II listed status, granted on April 18, 1990, The Maltings was spared. Along with the nearby Long Can, it stands as one of the last remaining structures of the once-sprawling brewery.

A New Purpose

Instead of being demolished, The Maltings was given a new lease on life. The building was repurposed as a college, a fitting transformation from a place of industry to a place of education. The broad, expansive windows that once let in light for the malting process now illuminate classrooms, and the strong foundations that once supported heavy machinery now support the dreams of students.

The photographs from 2014 show the building in this transitional phase, its industrial heritage clear in its design, yet its new purpose evident in the signage at the entrance. The mix of colour and a black-and-white image in the collection highlights the timeless quality of the architecture, which looks just as striking in monochrome as it does under a moody sky.

A Link to the Past

The presence of a railway is also a key part of The Maltings' history. The Halifax High Level Railway ran right past the building, and it's speculated that a railway siding may have existed there for a time. This connection to the railway network was undoubtedly crucial for a brewery, facilitating the transport of raw materials and finished products. The nearby Wheatley Viaduct, a magnificent piece of railway engineering, stands as a testament to this past.

These pictures, taken with a Polaroid is2132 camera, serve as a valuable record of a moment in time, capturing The Maltings as it continues its journey from industrial landmark to modern educational facility. Its unique architecture, a blend of functionality and Victorian design, makes it a true gem of Halifax's built heritage.

The Maltings is more than just a building; it is a symbol of adaptation and preservation. It reminds us that our industrial past is not something to be forgotten, but something to be celebrated and, where possible, repurposed for a new future. It stands proudly, a sentinel of a time gone by, but with a vibrant, new story still being written within its historic walls.

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St. James the Great: A Timeless Sentinel in Hebden Bridge

Nestled amidst the picturesque, rolling hills of the Calder Valley, the Church of St. James the Great stands as a silent witness to nearly two centuries of history. Affectionately known to locals as Hebden Bridge Parish Church or Mytholm Church, this Grade II listed Anglican place of worship is about to celebrate a remarkable milestone: its 190th anniversary this October.

These images, captured on a crisp November day in 2013, offer a glimpse into the enduring charm of this historic building. The late autumn light, a mix of brilliant sunshine and soft cloud cover, beautifully illuminates the church’s weathered stone facade and the vibrant foliage of the surrounding trees.

A Product of a Pious Era

The story of St. James the Great is inextricably linked to a significant moment in British history—the Million Pound Act. This government initiative, designed to provide places of worship in rapidly growing industrial areas, led to the construction of numerous churches across the country. St. James the Great was a beneficiary of this scheme, built at a cost of £2,700 and consecrated on October 5, 1833. It’s a testament to the foresight of its creators and the burgeoning faith of the community it was built to serve.

Initially a chapelry within the Parish of Heptonstall, St. James the Great gained its own identity when the Parish of Hebden Bridge was established in 1844. This marked a new chapter for the church, solidifying its role as the spiritual heart of the community.

Architectural Evolution

Like many historic buildings, St. James the Great has evolved over time. While the original structure was a solid example of early 19th-century church architecture, it was significantly enlarged in 1876 with the addition of a chancel. The pictures show this blend of architectural styles, a subtle harmony between the original design and later modifications. The last major alterations were made to the tower in the early 1980s, ensuring the church's structural integrity for future generations.

The stunning stained glass windows, visible in some of the images, are all from the 1870s. Their rich colours and intricate designs tell their own stories, filtering light into the hallowed interior and adding a layer of visual splendour.

A Place of Remembrance

The churchyard itself is a poignant and peaceful space. It is home to a stone cross war memorial, a solemn tribute to the local men who made the ultimate sacrifice during the First World War. The memorial stands as a constant reminder of the community's history and resilience. An additional memorial is located inside the church, ensuring that their names and memory are forever honoured.

As you wander through the rows of gravestones, some worn with age and others still bearing clear inscriptions, you can feel the weight of history all around you. Each stone marks a life lived, a story told, and a connection to this place. The churchyard, with its moss-covered headstones and towering trees, is a place of quiet reflection and deep reverence.

An Enduring Presence

These photographs, taken a decade ago with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet, capture not just a building, but the soul of a place. They show a church that is both imposing and welcoming, a landmark that has been an integral part of Hebden Bridge's landscape for almost 190 years.

As St. James the Great prepares to celebrate its anniversary, we are reminded of its enduring significance. It is more than just a place of worship; it is a symbol of community, a repository of memory, and a beautiful piece of architectural heritage. Its stones hold the stories of generations, and as it enters its 190th year, it continues to be a steadfast beacon for the people of Hebden Bridge.

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Built using Yorkshire Stone and rising 14ft high, this memorial is dedicated to the men killed from the local area in World War 1.

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