A number of myths have accumulated over the years around this unusual landmark which is often referred to as ‘Wainhouse’s Folly’ or the 'Tower of Spite'. The truth is simply that the octagonal tower was erected as a chimney for the Washer Lane Dye…
This is the tallest building in Calderdale and is named after John Wainhouse, the industrialist who funded it. Although originally planned as a chimney it was never used as one and remained as a folly, reputedly the tallest one in the world. …
The then new Aachen Way, which was built to bypass King Cross. The industrial buidlings in the background have since been demolished and is now the site of Tescos car park.
3rd May, 1996. Celebrating the re-opening of the Rochdale Canal through Sowerby Bridge with the construction of Tuel Lane Lock, now the deepest inland waterway lock in the UK at 19ft 8½inches, connecting to the Calder & Hebble Navigation.
This area is near to Wainhouse Tower, seen to the left of the rock. Above right (unseen) is Albert Promenade, a road off Skircoat Moor Road which offers fine views over the Sowerby and Norland hillside.
The landmark tower in the town was built by the wealthy local industrialist John Wainhouse. allegedly to be able to look into his neighbours garden. The tower is open to the public on Bank Holidays and the views from the top of the tower are wide…
Wainhouse Tower, one of the main landmarks of Halifax sits in the centre of this image. Below the wooded area at the foot of the hillside is Wakefield Road. This shot shows the large amount of housing in the surrounding area. Postcard dated 1904.