This view, from an old postcard entitled starkly “The Mills, Oxenhope”, may come as a surprise for some of the newer owners of today’s desirable residences in Lowertown.
It reminds us, in no uncertain way, that Oxenhope grew largely on account of the worsted industry.
Factories abounded: Lowertown Shed and Holme Mill seen here, also Sykes, Wadsworth, Charles, Brooksmeeting and Oxenhope Mills.
By the late 19th century, in addition to its worsted spinners and manufacturers, Oxenhope had woolstaplers, a spindle and flyer maker, even a cattle spice manufacturer. Coal and lime merchants operated from the station yard, one doubling as a dealer in “sanitary tubes”.
The community was virtually self-sufficient, boasting two co-operative societies, the Oxenhope Industrial and Provident Society Ltd and the Uppertown Provident Co-operative Society Ltd.
The photograph has been supplied by Mr Ian Brierley, of Bridgehouse Lane, Haworth.
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