Arthur Comfort, born in london in 1864, became a master wood engraver. He worked for some years on “The Graphic”, the National illustrated journal, and exhibited his work at the Royal Academy and abroad. Around 1900 he moved north and began work as a teacher. This sketch and description were originally published in The Halifax Courier in 1912-1913, and then published as a book “Ancient Halls of Halifax.” Barkisland Hall was built in 1683 by J Gledhill, whose initials, along with those of his wife, appear over the doorway. There is also the motto (in Latin) ‘Once his, now mine, but I know not whose afterwards’. The hall is not long in his possession. The Hortons of Howroyde became owners and retained possession to comparatively recent times. Mr Eli Sutcliffe, cotton spinner, was next owner and it passed into the Lumb family, one of whom, Cer M Lumb, resides in the principal portion. (There are now six tenements.) Besides possessing the ordinary features of the Elizabethan structure, it has a three storied porch, some old windows, beautiful plaster work and a carved oak fireplace. Situate just below the village, it is a striking memorial of 17th century prosperity. PH/28.
