William Hornby Blackburn's first mayor and the story behind the town centre statue still standing proud
Brought to life in bronze and towering over those who walk by, a slice of Blackburn's history remains ingrained in the lives of the 21st Century people that reside in the town. An English cotton spinner, industrialist and politician of the 19th Century, William Henry Hornby stands proudly with his trademark walking stick and knee-length coat.
According to Visit Blackburn, the statue originally stood in Limbrick, overlooking Sudell Cross. However, in 1970, it was moved without its original ornate plinth to where it stands today. According to the Cotton Town website, which is curated as part of Blackburn Central Library, William Hornby married Margaret Susannah, daughter and sole heiress of Edward Birley of Kirkham in 1831. He then inherited most of his father's enterprises and when Blackburn became a corporate borough, he was regarded as the leading employer of labour in the town.
William's younger brother, John Hornby was elected to Parliament in Blackburn in 1841 and William categorised himself as a paternalist and Anglican Tory that supported the Ten Hours Bill, also known as the Factories Act 1847. This restricted the hours of women and young people in the textile mills to 10 hours per day.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Blackburn schoolchildren take on Santa Dash in memory of teacher's mumA teacher from Blackburn wanted to do something different to mark the first anniversary of her mum's death
Read more »
We spoke to Muslims in Blackburn about why they love Christmas'I'm a Muslim and I love the festive period' is an initiative launched by One Voice Blackburn
Read more »
William 'unlikely' to make up with Harry after Netflix seriesThe first three episodes of the series were released on Thursday, December 8, and show criticisms made towards the Royal Family from the Sussexes.
Read more »
Prince William 'gutted' for England as they lose against France in World CupThe Prince of Wales has shared his sadness over England's 2-1 loss against France in the quarter finals of the World Cup, explaining how 'gutted' he is for the team
Read more »
Prince Harry's relationship with William 'irreparable' after Netflix seriesPrince Harry and Meghan's Netflix series is likely to have ruined the relationship between the Sussexes and the Prince of Wales for good, a friend of William has claimed
Read more »