Christchurch

Broadley Hall, Ovenden

Broadley Hall, Ovenden, was once regarded as one of the finest residences in the Halifax district. Built during the 1860s, it stood on land that had long belonged to the Broadley family, from whom the property took its name.

Although associated with the Broadley family, the hall later became the home of John Hanson, a woollen manufacturer. Hanson was described as a self-made man whose success came through hard work, determination and strong business ability.

He earned a reputation for straightforward habits and disliked unnecessary display or extravagance. Despite his success, he remained closely connected with business affairs and was noted for his practical outlook and perseverance.

Broadley Hall was considered an impressive residence, but its greatest distinction lay in its association with John Hanson, whose rise from modest beginnings to commercial success made him a well-known figure in Halifax.

Spring Lea, Ovenden

Spring Lea, one of the old homesteads of the Ovenden district, stood in what was described as an idyllic setting. A photograph of the house was taken from Ovenden Wood Road and accompanied a look back at its history.

The property's origins were said to date back around 300 years to John Bairstow of Brownhurst, who died in 1623. The present building bears an inscription 'H.M. 1625' . Those initials belong to Henry Murgatroyd, who inherited the estate from his father James Murgatroyd of Murgatroyd-in-Warley.

The property was also known as Spring Gardens. During this period it was reputed to have been one of the pleasures of Halifax, with extensive gardens that attracted picnickers and holidaymakers. The grounds even contained a licensed alehouse known as Wright's Gardens, a popular venue for many years.

The final private resident mentioned was Mr F. M. W. Hird.