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Bradford pics

The Sieges of Bradford - Bradford Pictures. The following photographs are taken to illustrate the focus of the defence of Bradford during the first attack and first and second sieges. The descriptions in the captions relate to the events of the first siege. The area was heavily developed during the industrial revolution and in the following years and one has to have a vivid imagination to picture the scene as they must have looked during the 17th century. The church, cathedral as it is now, has been heavily altered and renovated over the years. However the tower is the original 15th century structure, although partly obscured at the base on 2 sides by rather dismal post war extensions. The nave is also part of the original building.

The pictures give some idea of the geography of this little part of Bradford where these fiercely fought engagements took place and help give the events some perspective within the present setting of this part of the city

Top left:- The tower of Bradford St Peter’s Church (now Cathedral) looking south. The clock faces the town and away from the attacking Royalist positions.  Note the height of the tower which gave it such a commanding position overlooking the attackers and it is easy to see why it was considered such an important defensive position and turned into a strong point by the defenders.

Middle left:-. View of the tower looking down Church Bank. This sides of the tower was hung with wool sacks for extra protection from cannon fire from the Royalists further up the hill behind where this photo was taken.

Bottom left. View of tower and Church Bank up which the local defenders charged. There was a bridge over the Beck near this spot.

Upper right:- The inner ring road facing east at the junction of Church Bank overlooking the church.

Lower right:- The inner ring road at the same junction facing west.

At around this area the Royalists positioned themselves and their cannon for their attack on the town and this immediate area was the scene of fighting as the defenders counter attacked.

Upper left :- View across Church Bank from the church around which the Royalists occupied the nearby houses which were situated here at the time and from which they made their attempts to take the church but were beaten off by determined defence.

Middle left:- View up Church Bank from above the church the scene of fighting and the pursuit of the Royalists by the defenders.

Lower left:- Paper Hall at the top of Church Bank which was built in 1643 and one of the few 17th century buildings left in the area. It has been heavily renovated and restored over the years.

To contact David W Fell click on  the shovel.

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