In the 17th century, opposite the end of Apethorn Lane was a small group of cottages known as Gerrards Fold.
The Ashton family farmed there before they embarked on the cotton trade in the district.
Towards the end of the 19th century the old fold was converted into a large Elizabethan style house known as "The Gerrards".
James Bradley lived there around 1905, Gladstone stayed there too as did a ghost. The now disgraced Stuart Hall once wanted to buy the property but the then owner refused him.
At the turn of the 21st century the house was demolished and replaced by three-storey modern town houses.
For an old photograph see the Hydonian blog.
A contribution to ABC Wednesday.
Looks quaint
ReplyDeletePhenoMenon, ABCW
http://throodalookingglass.com/2014/08/giant-prayer-wheels-at-the-golden-temple/
Very impressive. I like such red colored buildings.
ReplyDeleteHappy ABCW!
Calling by for ABC Wednesday, interesting, are there photos of the previous house to complete the story?
ReplyDeleteYes - but you'll have to follow the link I provided to the old photos as they are not mine to display here.
DeleteSorry, do not know how I missed the link earlier! I went and looked just as I imagined what a shame it was demolished.
ReplyDeleteA lot of history there. The modern row of townhouses has a neat symmetry to it.
ReplyDeleteVery charming!
ReplyDeleteROG, ABCW
I like the style.
ReplyDeleteA very elegant looking row of houses!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful photo and interesting too, as always.I like history of ordinary people.
ReplyDeletenice picture.... makes one wonder ....what the houses would tell if they could talk... about its habitants ;-)
ReplyDelete