Downham, And Pendle Hill 1921

Photo ref: 71187

More about this scene

This ancient and beautiful village dates back to Saxon times. The beacon on Pendle Hill is said to be Saxon, and the field known as Kirkacre was in existence when Alfred the Saxon was chieftain. Today's grey stone or white-washed cottages were built in the 18th and 19th centuries for handloom weavers. Where the brook runs through the village, each cottage had a stone slab to cross. Sir Ralph Assheton purchased a fine example of a 'Downham diamond' for only five shillings in the 17th century. Found in the local limestone, these were large quartz crystals. A flagstone path has been laid on Pendle Hill to combat erosion. Every Hallowe'en the thrill of the witches of Pendle lures enthusiasts carrying lanterns to ascend. At Longridge this was called 'lating of the witches'.