Woodhall, Skircoat

The sketch and description were originally published in The Halifax Courier in 1912-1913. PH/28. Said to occupy the site of a much older building, Woodhall bears the date 1580 on the porch. The letters ‘JW’ are also to be found. There is little doubt that these are the initials of John Waterhouse, a member of a well known family, but Watson, the Halifax historian, has suggested the name to be Watmough, whom he supposed built the place. Mr George Swift purchased the house recently and he has restored it – when it was in danger of falling to ruin – without damage to the ancient features. At one time Richard Sterne lived at Woodhall and with him stayed Laurence Sterne, his nephew, author of ‘Tristan Shandy’ and the creator of ‘Uncle Toby’. He is said to have attended Heath Grammar School for a time. PH/28.