A new exhibition opening in July at South Square Centre, Thornton, explores how the underlying geology of Thornton gave rise not just to quarrying but also to coal mining and fireclay industries in Thornton.

“The exhibition is part of a two year project called Stone which is supported by the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund” explained Lorraine Greenald, Project Manager. “It seemed appropriate to put together an exhibition that looks at the importance of stone in the Thornton area. It is the material that surrounds you everywhere in the village – in the buildings, pavements, field boundaries, walls and cemeteries – and it was all sourced locally. The exhibition is about why it’s here, how it’s been used and the people that made their living from it.”

The exhibition uses research, photographs, memories, artefacts and other material held in the Thornton Antiquarian Society Archive to tell the story of the industries that were once an important part of the Thornton’s economy and a source of employment for local people. West Yorkshire Geology Group has assisted by providing explanations of how the stone, clay and coal came to be in the area in the first place. What did the Walls of Jericho have to do with the quarries? Who was Isaac Button? Why was a man employed at Top Pit once a year and paid with 2 sovereigns and a new suit of clothes? Want to know the answers, then come and see the exhibition!

The exhibition runs from 6 July – 1 September in the Community Room at South Square Centre, Thornton, Bradford. Opening times 12.00 – 3.00pm from Tuesday – Sunday. Admission free.

Further information

South Square Centre on 01274 834 747 or email: heritage@southsquarecentre.co.uk.

For more information visit the South Square website.