The sketch and description were originally published in The Halifax Courier in 1912-1913. Oldest of local homesteads, rich with features illustrative of many centuries of house architecture internal and external, it is fitting that Shibden Hall should be in the possession of Mr John Lister, MA, president of the Halifax Antiquarian Society. The older part of the present hall was probably built in the first quarter of the 15th century. In 1504 a Robert Savile encased the rough-hewn beams and ceiling boards of the present dining room with thin, neatly-finished oak wainscoting. He also put in a fine series of stained glass in a window of stone mullions, substituting wooden frames. These glasses Mr Lister considers almost unique. The same owner encased the house body with stone, though much of the original exterior timber work still exists. Alterations have been made since, but of a small nature, except the building of the western tower, kitchen and offices in the ‘thirties by Miss Lister, the then owner. Considering its great age, very few families have held Shibden Hall. The first traceable owner was one William Otes, whose family were in occupation as early as 1410. Subsequent owners were the Saviles, the Waterhouses and since the early years of the 17th century, the Listers. Here was born General William Fawcett GCB, April 30, 1727, son of William Fawcett, husband of Martha, eldest daughter of James Lister. His distinguished military career was begun in Flanders. Honours, well earned, were showered upon him, culminating in a position tantamount to commander-in-chief. At Shibden Hall too, Miss R M Kettle during a visit wrote ‘the Mistress of Langdale Hall’, a novel with much local colouring. Mr John Lister, the present resident and owner, an antiquary of wide repute, has probably contributed more to our knowledge of local history than any other man. His home is a veritable store house of olden lore and fact. Ref: PH/28.
