On Tuesday, 24th March 1840, Marshall Hall Mills, Elland was badly damaged by fire.
Newspapers reported
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On [24th March 1840], at about three o'clock, a destructive fire
broke out at the extensive woollen mill belonging to Mr William
Balmforth, Elland, which owing to the highly combustible
nature of the material raged with great fury.
An express was dispatched to this town and several fire engines were speedily upon the spot; the roof however had fallen in prior to their arrival and the steam engine was all that the united exertions of the firemen and spectators were able to save; the whole of the machinery, goods etc having fallen prey to the devouring element and the mill was reduced to one mess of ruins. We have heard it stated and have too much reason to believe the truth of the report and though an abundant supply of water was at hand, the bystanders obstinately refused to throw it on the flames. The origin of the fire is a mystery, Mr Balmforth went over the whole premises about 11 o'clock on Monday evening when he neither saw any fire nor perceived anything which led him to apprehend the least danger; in about four hours the whole mill was in flames. We regret to add that Mr Balmforth's loss will be £6,000 – £7000, not one farthing of which is insured. A large number of hands will be thrown out of employment by this severe calamity and we fear some of them must starve |
Page Ref: KK_68
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