The next temporary display at the Darwen Heritage Centre concerns three Darwen men who signed to play for Arsenal FC. George Holden, Norman Smith and Leslie Pilkington. Did you know any of these three? I certainly had the privilege of meeting Leslie Pilkington as he lived across the street from me when I was growing up. He used to take us to watch United at Old Trafford in the 1968/69 season – great days to follow football.
Still time to get your 2024 Calendar from the Darwen Heritage Centre and just in for the very first time this Wednesday your chance to get a Natural Canvas Cotton Shopper showing your support for the Darwen Heritage Centre. These are good quality bags for just £8 and will no doubt make a fine Christmas present.
The Darwen Heritage Centre has Hubert Bentley’s paintings on display now and they go on sale this Friday 3rd November until Saturday 16th December.. Need a unique Christmas present or just a piece of artwork for the home? All purchases must be paid for at the time of ordering and sorry but we can only accept cash sales. Paintings can be picked up from the Darwen Heritage Centre at the end of the exhibition. Hubert will be making a donation to the East Lancs Hospice and to DHC from the money taken.
You can view all his paintings by clicking on the link in the top menu.
The town is nestled in a valley overlooked by the Victoria Tower, or Darwen Tower as it is more commonly known. Families and visitors walk the moor to this famous landmark for the breathtaking views, whilst down in the town the Grade 2* listed India Mill Chimney rises magnificently 300 feet into the air in the style of an Italian campanile, (bell tower).
In the heart of this town Holker House has become the home for the Darwen Heritage Centre. A building dedicated to the prolific history of this cotton mill town steeped in stories and stunning architecture. Darwen was home to a strong cotton industry and boasts a visit from Gandhi in September 1931 to address concerns with cotton trading. It was home for Samuel Crompton, inventor of the spinning mule, who lived in Bury Fold Lane, Darwen.
Other famous Darreners include Sam Wadsworth who became a professional footballer winning 9 caps playing for England between 1922 and 1926; world renowned strong man Bill Hunt; professional golfer Dick Burton who held the Open Champion title for seven years; Margaret Chapman the illustrator and painter; Sigrid Augusta Green, female spy in World War 2 and lead singer of Blancmange, Neil Arthur.
