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Bolling Hall, Bradford facts for kids

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Bolling Hall
Bolling Hall, Bradford.jpg
The original front
General information
Location Bowling Hall Road, Bradford, West Yorkshire, England
Coordinates 53°46′44″N 1°44′19″W / 53.77889°N 1.73861°W / 53.77889; -1.73861
(grid reference SE1731)
Owner City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council
Designations Grade I listed

Bolling Hall is one of the oldest buildings in Bradford, West Yorkshire, England. It is now a museum and a place for learning. The building is about one mile from the center of Bradford. It sits in an area called East Bowling, surrounded by homes and other buildings.

A Look at Bolling Hall's History

Bolling Hall has a long and interesting past. It has stood for many centuries. The oldest parts of the building are from the 14th century.

How Bolling Hall Began

Before the Industrial Revolution (a time when factories and machines changed how people lived and worked), Bradford was a small town. It was hard to defend because it was in a valley. But Bolling Hall was built on a hill, giving it a good view and a strong position.

The very first part of the building might have been a peel tower. These were small, strong towers built to protect people from attacks.

Who Owned Bolling Hall?

The land where Bolling Hall stands was first mentioned in the Domesday Book. This was a big survey of England ordered by William the Conqueror in 1085. At that time, a man named Sindi owned the land.

Later, the Bolling family owned the estate for many years, starting around 1316. After them, the Tempest family took over in the late 1400s. They owned it until 1649. Over time, the estate had many different owners and renters. In 1912, it was given to the city of Bradford. Three years later, in 1915, it opened as a museum for everyone to visit.

Bolling Hall During the English Civil War

In 1643, during the English Civil War, Bolling Hall played an important role. This war was fought between the Royalists (who supported King Charles I) and the Parliamentarians (who supported Parliament).

Bradford mostly supported Parliament. But during a battle in 1643, the Royalists captured the town. Bolling Hall became their base. There are often items on display at the museum that tell the story of the English Civil War. You might even see a special mask of Oliver Cromwell, a famous Parliamentarian leader.

Changes Over Time

In the 1700s, parts of Bolling Hall were updated. An architect named John Carr helped modernize the house after a fire. In 1952, Bolling Hall was given a special status as a Grade I listed building. This means it is a very important historical building that needs to be protected.

Images for kids

See also

  • Bradford District Museums & Galleries
  • Grade I listed buildings in City of Bradford
  • Listed buildings in Bradford (Bowling and Barkerend Ward)
  • Battle of Adwalton Moor
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