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Joseph Harrison - Iron Master
Joseph Harrison was born in Ingleton in 1804. His father was a mining engineer. Joseph became an itinerant blacksmith and settled in Blackburn in 1826. He set up business in the old smithy in Dandy Walk, originally the smithy for the Dandy Walk factory set up at the beginning of the 19th century. After marriage to Elizabeth Hodgson he took up residence in Darwen Street.
Harrison specialised initially in wrought-iron work, manufacturing gates many of which could be seen in the town, eg the entrance gates to Sudell House in King Street. Later he established Bank Foundry at Nova Scotia and cast lamp-posts for the Gas Company and the town council.
Harrison became a councillor and alderman, representing St Peter's Ward. He moved from Darwen Street to Bolton Road and in 1847 to Galligreaves Hall, which stood then in its own grounds amid elm trees and extensive lawns. Later when streets and factories hemmed it in, it became a Conservative Club and later a public house. In 1862 Harrison bought Samlesbury Old Hall and restored it to its 15th century splendour.
Harrison's three sons had distinguished careers. William set up the Chamber of Commerce and his name will for ever be associated with the famous Mission to China in 1896. Joseph Harrison died on February 18th 1880.
With thanks to Jim Halsall for supplying resources.
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