In 1841, when Bacup’s first census was conducted, the town’s water supply was severely lacking. The absence of a reservoir meant that residents relied solely on scattered wells. The quality of water from these wells varied significantly, with some sources being described as resembling sewage. One particularly notorious well was located in Down t Yard, […]
Water, Water Everywhere Read More »
During the early 19th century in Bacup, most dwelling houses were in deplorable condition. Families crowded in cramped, poorly ventilated cellars and houses lacking proper drainage. These dismal living conditions posed significant health risks and hardships for the residents. With only a limited number of toilets available, open cesspools became a common sight at
A sketch from August 1974 of the new Rossendale Borough Council Coat of Arms. Designed at the time by Alexander Colin Cole, now Sir Alexander Colin Cole. Interestingly the original sketch doesn’t contain the shoe symbol shown in the Coat of Arms used today. To save me typing the rest is courtesy of Wikipedia. Official
Prosperity Through Endeavour Read More »
During the American Civil War, the disruption in cotton supply had a significant impact on towns and villages in Lancashire, including Bacup. It is estimated that out of the 6,000 workers in Bacup, half were left unemployed while the other half had reduced working hours, often working only 2-3 days a week. The shortage of
Throughout the 1840s, Bacup underwent a significant transformation driven by the booming wool-spinning and cotton industries. This led to a surge in population, with approximately 8,000 residents calling Bacup home by this time. This population growth created a demand not only for stone to construct the numerous mills that were springing up, but also for
Meetings of the Bacup Local Board of Health were first convened on the 17th of December 1863 and were initially held in the Mechanics Institute, moving to a purpose-built room over the shops in the newly opened market hall in August 1867. Bacup at this time was separated into five wards, Bacup, Greave, Rockliffe, Broadclough
Migration has been an integral part of human history for centuries, with people leaving their homelands in pursuit of seasonal work or better opportunities. As the town of Bacup expanded rapidly during the 1840s, a tragic event in Ireland had a profound impact on its population. 1847, known as ‘Black ’47,’ marked a year
Migration & Famine Read More »