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Old Smithy, Leigh BB94_07538
OLD SMITHY, Junction of Market Street and Bradshawgate, Leigh, Greater Manchester. This photograph was taken the day before the Old Smithy was demolished. A crowd seems to have gathered in solidarity. The building next door is occupied by an auctioneer and appraiser. Posters advertise sermons, Sunday and day schools, hay and a colliery for sale. Photographed 6 May 1863. Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places. © Historic England Archive
Media ID 627966
Filename: BB94_07538.jpg
Size: 5150 x 3683 (5.0MB)
Date: 25th October 2007
Source: Historic England
Credit: Historic England Archive
Source: English Heritage Images
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Historic Images > The Victorian Age > 1850s - 1860s
> Towns and Cities > Manchester
> The way we were > Victoriana
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Old Smithy, Leigh: A Snapshot of Victorian Life Before Demolition This evocative photograph captures the Old Smithy at the junction of Market Street and Bradshawgate in Leigh, Greater Manchester, on the day before its demolition in May 1863. The Old Smithy, a Victorian cobblestone building, stands proudly amidst the hustle and bustle of the bustling market town. The crowd that has gathered in front of the building suggests a sense of solidarity and nostalgia, as the community comes together to bid farewell to this historic landmark. The building to the right, occupied by an auctioneer and appraiser, adds to the scene's commercial and industrial character. The presence of posters advertising sermons, Sunday and day schools, hay for sale, and a colliery underscores the diverse range of activities and opportunities that were available in this thriving Victorian community. The cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carts, and traditional attire of the onlookers transport us back in time, offering a glimpse into the daily life of Leigh during the Victorian era. The Old Smithy, with its intricate brickwork and ornate details, serves as a reminder of the rich history and heritage that once defined this town. This photograph, taken from the Historic England Archive, offers a unique and poignant snapshot of a bygone era. It invites us to reflect on the past and appreciate the significance of preserving our historical buildings and the stories they hold.
