Wigan Album

I remember this so well; a threepeny ride on the "tractor" from the plantation gates through the cool, shady plantations, which brought goosebumps on your arms until you emerged into the blazing sun at the bottom of the driveway up to the hall. A drink in the cafe, a look round some of the hall's rooms, (which was allowed then; one room held a huge glass case full of musical instruments), playing on the swings,(the playground was in a different area than it is now), then a look round those magnificent greenhouses and fishpond, with enormous gold fish and lily-pads. I went to that spot recently with a dear friend and could have cried for what has been lost. But the lily-pads and the memories remain.

I went two years ago Irene, first time in 35 years and wish I hadn't gone..I was heartbroken to see it the way it is now.. Like you though, I have the most wonderful memories of a Beautiful place and no one can take those away..

We seem to have gone backwards instead of forwards...after saying that, going back isn't that bad...great set of pics Neil.

It brings back memories for me as well, Irene.
We were reminiscing the only the other day about the contents of the hall in those days. My husband remembers suits of armour and glass cabinets with guns knives and various other things like uniforms. I remember things like the crib. This was moved, along with some other things, to the Children's Library in Station Road. Wonder where they all are now? This is another example of vandalism, in my opinion. The Hall belonged to the townspeople, not the Council.It never should have been sold.

Thanks for the kind words Colin. Had these tucked away for years inside John Hannavy's excellent history of Wigan book. Irene ,likeyou I have many special memories of times spent with loved ones in Haigh, it will always be special. Anywhere with old pit shafts to be found can't be bad.

Fountain still works.

I remember the pond and the Greenhouses very well. The Local Authority spend millions on so called "initiatives", not to mention their own accommodation. Surely something could have been found in the coffers to maintain and save this precious jewell in what was the crowning glory of Wigan years ago, ....the Haigh Hall Estate. Not exactly Chatsworth, but where else did a Local Authority have such a unique opportunity to develop an Estate such as Haigh Hall into what could have been one of the most stunning Tourist, Wedding and Conference venues in the North West.
Sadly much of the Hall and Estate, like most things the LA get involved in, has deteriorated badly, just like the old Mesnes Park Superintendants house on Bridgeman Terrace, now having to be salvaged by Lottery Funding. I find it odd that Car Parks like the one opposite the Old Police Station in Town can suddenly be resurfaced and improved because the Local authority staff are now going to use it.It was OK for the likes of use to walk through the puddles and potholes in the dark, but not the LA Officers. Like so many other things things in this Town, money can't be found until its something for themselves.