Wynter Edge Hall, Hipperholme

The sketch and description were originally published in The Halifax Courier in 1912-1913. The ancient homestead stands on a knoll near Coley Church and commands extensive views, especially southwards. From its exposed position its name is derived. More than six centuries ago the estate passed from the family of Henry of Coley to the Rishworths of Coley. The hall as it now stands has been built in three sections, the middle being the oldest. To the back on the north gable is the double Maltese cross, significant of the fact that the Knights of St John had established a religious settlement or priory there. Many Latin inscriptions once existed about the building, but the only one now obvious is ‘Meliora Spero (we hope for better times) 1693’ on an out building. In a bedroom in the oldest part is excellently preserved plaster work over the fireplace, which includes the coat of arms of the Saltonstalls, owners from 1584 to 1624 (Sir Richard Saltonstall, Bart was Lord Mayor of London in 1597). The owner now is Mr F M foster, and the tenant Mr Jasper Rushworth. PH/28.