Celebrate a big milestone in history of Calderdale

Civic dignitaries and members of the public are getting ready to celebrate a major milestone in the history of Calderdale today (Sunday).
By The Newsroom
Published 4th Aug 2013, 08:36 BST
Sunshine on Halifax Town Hall, with blue sky above.Sunshine on Halifax Town Hall, with blue sky above.
Sunshine on Halifax Town Hall, with blue sky above.

Sunday, August 4, marks 150 years since the opening of Halifax Town Hall in 1863, and Calderdale Council has planned a number of events to celebrate in style.

These will kick off today with a formal ceremony from 12pm to commemorate the 150th anniversary, which will include the unveiling of a restored bust of John Crossley who was Mayor of Halifax at the time of the opening.

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To coincide with this, the town hall will be open to the public from 2pm until 5pm where an exhibition of items from the opening ceremony in 1863 and the history of the town hall will be on display.

The day will culminate with a spectacular firework display from Beacon Hill in Halifax at 9.45pm. The best view of this display will be from Halifax town centre.

The town hall and exhibition will again be open for viewings from Monday, August 5, to Friday, August 9, from 9am to 7pm, and Saturday, August 10, from 10am to 5pm.

Guided tours of the iconic building will also be available on Monday to Friday at 12pm and 6pm, and on Saturday, August 10, at 11am, 1.30pm and 3pm.

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Local historian, David Glover will also give a talk on the history of the town hall on Thursday, August 8, at 7.30pm.

The Mayor of Calderdale, Coun Ann Martin (Lab, Brighouse), said: “Halifax Town Hall has a rich and fascinating history, and these events will provide an insight into this important Victorian building, which is at the centre of local democracy in Calderdale.

“I hope people get involved and join in with the celebrations for the 150th anniversary of a magnificent building we can all be proud of.”

In addition to these events, the Victorian Society are displaying their photographic exhibition ‘Saving a Century’ at the town hall during the month of August to coincide with the anniversary. This free exhibition will display photos of the best Victorian and Edwardian buildings and structures that the society has campaigned to save, and some that have been lost.

For more information about any of the commemorative events, contact the Civic Office on 01422 393022.

Related topics:Calderdale CouncilHalifaxCalderdaleVictorian