MYTHOLMROYD

Historical Society

Around 70 people attended Mytholmroyd Historical Society when Peter Thornbarrow gave an illustrated talk on “17th Century Oak Furniture in the Calder Valley”. Mr Thornbarrow has been Architectural Historian for Calder Valley and then for the whole of West Yorkshire. He explained how the Valley developed from handloom weaving, so that by the 17th Century there were many wealthy people who could afford to buy good furniture, typically featuring a triangular design called Lozenge, although there were other designs too. Examples of this furniture can be seen at Shibden Hall, Heptonstall Church, Sowerby Church and Halifax Church. Thanks were expressed by Fay Fielding. The society is holding a Mytholmroyd Heritage Day on Saturday May 16, starting at 10am at the Church of the Good Shepherd and including displays, talks, walks and refreshments. There will be a visit to Lister Lane Cemetery, Halifax on May 22 and a visit to Heptonstall Methodist Chapel with talk on June 12. On Saturday August 8 there is a coach trip- to Ellesmere Port to visit the National Canal Museum, have a boat ride with refreshments, then to on to Chester in the afternoon. To book a place please contact Mrs Julie Wild. Members and non-members are welcome. The Winter Programme starts on Friday, September 11, at 7.30pm at the Church of the Good Shepherd, with a talk on “17th Century Calder Valley Buildings” by David Cant. New members and visitors are welcome.