Halifax Township

Halifax Township is one of twenty three townships that make up the extensive Parish of Halifax. Throughout the centuries Halifax has assumed a pre-eminent place over these neighbouring townships; at times a cause of friction and antagonism. Consequently disputes and challenges occurred. Nevertheless because it was the regions commercial hub and the parish administrative and religious centre most of the decisions that were made in Halifax stood firm.

The industrial revolution greatly increased the population of the town thereby resulting in an expansion of the town boundary – an expansion so great as to encroach well within the neighbouring townships of Northowram, Southowram, Ovenden, Skircoat and Warley. And if there were physical barriers to overcome they were indeed overcome. 

Halifax: North Bridge

For instance by constructing a bridge over the River Hebble the natural river boundary that divided the townships of Halifax and Northowram was breached. Bridge replacements over the years ensured continued expansion of the town over North Bridge into Northowram township. The photograph (left) taken from the middle of North Bridge, illustrates just how close the River Hebble boundary is to the town centre.

With expansion the town of Halifax was therefore no longer contained within its own township. And the five rural host townships became irrevocably linked with the urban mass of Halifax. The town had in affect outgrown its boundary.

With this fact in mind the content published within the page Halifax Township must by necessity encompass the overspill areas of the town of Halifax i.e those districts of the town that lie outside the actual township boundary.

Halifax Township: content overview

It is intended that content will be diverse, varied and wide-ranging in both its scope and presentation.

In the first instance the focus will be upon perceptions and reflections from the 1950’s and 1960’s.

Introduction. Halifax – with perceptions and reflections from the 1950’s and 60’s

Southgate – with perceptions and reflections from the 1950’s and 60’s

Halifax Borough Market – with perceptions and reflections from the 1950’s and 60’s

The Theatre Royal – with perceptions and reflections from the 1950’s and 60’s