The Times (24/Apr/1856) - Memorial of the Flood at Holmfirth

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MEMORIAL OF THE FLOOD AT HOLMFIRTH.

On Monday the foundation-stone was laid of a row of almshouses at Holmfirth, near Huddersfield, to commemorate the great flood there on the 5th of February, 1852. The authorities, principal inhabitants, and several lodges of Freemasons took part in the proceedings. Under the stone, besides other memorials, was placed a brass plate, with the following inscription:—

“The foundation-stone of the Holmfirth Monumental Almshouses, erected to commemorate the great flood caused by the bursting of the Bilberry Reservoir, 5th of February, 1852, by which upwards of 80 lives were lost, and also the munificent liberality of the British public, was laid by the Provincial Grand Lodge of Freemasons of West Yorkshire, on Monday, 21st April, 1858. A. L. 5,856.”

A sermon had been previously preached at the church by the Rev. Mr. Fardell, and at the laying of the stone Mr. Floyd, of Holme Valley Lodge, delivered an address. Various commemorative dinners were given at 5 o’clock.