MILLS have dominated the landscape of Guiseley, Yeadon and Rawdon for many generations - creating employment for some and vast fortunes for others. These photographs from the online archive of Aireborough Historical Society show some of the people who made their money from textiles. We can also see two of the impressive buildings which were so important in the lives of local people. One of the best known of the mill owners was William Murgatroyd, known to Yeadon people as “Billy Murg”. He was a hard taskmaster and had a reputation for being firm but fair. He was also known for his strong Yorkshire accent. On one occasion in London when he was asked how he liked to be addressed he is reputed to have said: “When I’m in London I’m called Sir, in Bradford it’s Mr Murgatroyd but back home in’t mill it’s tow’d bugger’s back agin.”
The men who made their fortunes in Aireborough s mills thetelegraphandargus.co.uk - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from thetelegraphandargus.co.uk Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.