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Barrow Bridge was built in the 1830s as a model industrial village to house the workers of Dean Mills, owned by Robert Gardner and Thomas Bazley. It is historically important as an early example of the pioneering developments of enlightened industrialists attempting to improve conditions for their workers.

Their innovation led to the construction of 13 cottages for their workers. By 1830, the industrialists had acquired the site, demolishing the old mill and replacing it with the impressive Dean Mills—twin six-storey steam-powered structures located at the village entrance.

Managers’ houses were constructed nearby, overlooking the brook, adding to the village’s structured layout. Despite the mill’s closure in 1877 and eventual demolition in 1913, many of these historical buildings still stand today, offering a fascinating window into the past.

The Barrow Bridge Chimney, built in the 1860s as part of the Halliwell Bleach Works, is a landmark that’s hard to miss. Bolton’s Fred Dibnah climbed the chimney in his youth, and later helped secure its Grade-II listing by Historic England.




Paul.
 

Barrow Bridge Chimney Fred Dibnah climbed this for a 10 shilling bet!!!​


As a teenager, legendary steeplejack Fred Dibnah climbed the 262-foot (80m) Barrow Bridge chimney in Bolton for a 10-shilling (or ten bob) bet. During the night, he reportedly secured two Union flags to the lightning conductors at the top, a daring act that helped establish his reputation!

Dibnah placed two Union Jacks at the top of the chimney, which was famously misattributed to Manchester University students, rather than a local teenager. Sources differ slightly, placing the climb at age 15 or 17. It was a dare during his youth.

Despite this youthful climb, Fred later worked on the chimney as a professional steeplejack, conducting significant repairs on it in 1996Built in 1863, Barrow Bridge chimney was part of the old Halliwell Bleach works and is now a local landmark and listed building.

At around 80 metres tall the chimney at Barrow Bridge is visible for miles around and is appealing due to it’s now-rural setting, unlike other preserved remains of the industrial age.

Visitors to nearby Moss Bank Park are treated to a good view and this is an ideal place from which to observe Peregrines when they are at home on the ledge near the top of the tower.




Paul.
 

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