Littleborough’s hsitoryThe Falcon Inn played a significant role in Littleborough’s history, particularly during the town’s development in the 18th and 19th centuries. Here are the key contributions of the Falcon Inn:
Long-standing Establishment
The Falcon Inn has been a fixture in Littleborough since 1657[1][2]. This longevity makes it an important part of the town’s heritage. The inn has witnessed and participated in Littleborough’s transformation over centuries.
Agricultural Centre
From 1657, the inn and its associated farm covered land extending down to the river[1]. This suggests it was a significant agricultural property in early Littleborough. The inn likely played a role in local farming activities.
Livestock Trading Hub
The Falcon Inn was a central location for livestock trading:
- An ancient cow and sheep fair was held in the square at the rear of the inn[1][2].
- These fairs were important economic and social events for the local community.
Falcon Inn as a Coaching Inn
In the early 19th century, the Falcon Inn became a coaching inn[1][2]. This new role was crucial for Littleborough’s development:
- It served as a stop for coaches travelling between major cities.
- Passengers could rest and refresh themselves during their journey.
- The inn likely became a hub for news and information exchange.
Community Focal Point
As a long-standing establishment, the Falcon Inn would have been a central meeting place for locals. It likely hosted community gatherings and social events throughout its history.
Historical Preservation
Today, the Falcon Inn continues to contribute to Littleborough’s history:
- It has a blue plaque from the Littleborough Civic Trust, recognising its historical significance[2].
- The inn serves as a tangible link to Littleborough’s past, helping to preserve local heritage.
The Falcon Inn’s evolution from a farm to a coaching inn mirrors Littleborough’s own development. It has been a constant presence through agricultural, industrial, and modern periods of the town’s history.
Citations: [1] https://www.rochdale.gov.uk/directory-record/252/falcon-inn-blue-plaque-in-littleborough
[2] https://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/WMCZKY_The_Falcon_Inn_18_20_Church_Street_Littleborough_UK
[3] https://catalogue.wmlmt.org.uk/wiki/Littleborough,_Falcon_Inn
[4] https://russellhomes.co.uk/news/little-histories-of-littleborough
[5] https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:The_Falcon_Inn,_Littleborough_-_geograph.org.uk_-_636955.jpg
[6] https://www.lan-opc.org.uk/Rochdale/Littleborough/home.html
[7] https://kids.kiddle.co/Littleborough,_Greater_Manchester
[8] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Littleborough,_Greater_Manchester
