The dual economy of textiles and agriculture: a case study at Hartley Royd

The dual economy of textiles and agriculture: a case study of the ‘yeoman clothier’ in the upper Calder Valley in the late 17th century.

Hartley Royd is a fine 17th century stone house, the home of John Fielden a devout Quaker. He died in 1697 and his probate inventory can tell us much about how he lived and the use of the rooms. His eldest son John enlarged the house but the financial pressures of providing for his brothers and sisters, as per his father’s will, sharing his inheritance equally, led ultimately to his financial ruin.

We unravel the complicated architectural development of the building aided by the documentary evidence.

Well known for his detailed talks about significant buildings in West Yorkshire. Peter draws on his experience as Calderdale’s Architectural Historian, and Inspector of Historic Buildings, surveying most of West Yorkshire for listed buildings. He spent many years as Historic Buildings officer in West Yorkshire.