History of Higher Hurdsfield

The Story of Higher Hurdsfield

Higher Hurdsfield Parish holds a special place in the hearts of many, past and present. Unlike some neighbouring parishes, however, we have relatively few written records to draw upon. For that reason, this history should very much be seen as a work in progress. We warmly invite residents and friends of the Parish to help us build and enrich the story of Higher Hurdsfield by sharing memories, photographs, documents, or guiding us to other sources of information. If you have anything you would like to contribute, please contact the Parish Clerk.

Rose Cottage and Coal Mining in the Parish

We are grateful to the current owners of Rose Cottage and to Mr David Kitching, whose research into the coal industry of north-east Cheshire has shed light on this remarkable building. Rose Cottage, a Grade II listed former weaver’s cottage, shares part of its history with Shrigley Fold and, as Mr Kitching established, was originally constructed as an engine house connected to coal mining on the Swanscoe estates.

Historical records show that in 1782 Thomas Ward and Thomas Wardle purchased the Higher and Lower Swanscoe estates, retaining the coal rights. In 1791 a 42-year lease was granted to William Clayton, including provision for a “fire engine” — an atmospheric pumping engine — to drain water from the mine. The building later known as Rose Cottage was constructed to house this engine.

In 2008, during building works, an 80-metre-deep mine shaft was unexpectedly uncovered at the property. Subsequent research confirmed that Rose Cottage had indeed been a Newcomen-type pumping engine house — a rare survival. Its structure, including evidence of the beam opening and boiler stack, supports this conclusion. Surviving Newcomen engine houses are extremely rare, and it is hoped the building’s listing status may be reconsidered in light of its industrial significance.

Shrigley Fold Farm and Hurdsfield Golf Club

Shrigley Fold Farm is another important Grade II listed building within the Parish. In 1745 John Wesley preached at the farmhouse, marking a significant moment in the early Methodist movement in Macclesfield. The property has since been home to various families and, between the wars, became the clubhouse of Hurdsfield Golf Club.

Golf has a long history in the area. The Hurdsfield Club was formally established in 1910, with its course eventually relocating to land at Shrigley Fold Farm. The nine-hole course officially opened in November 1926, despite heavy rain on the day. Membership flourished during the 1920s and 1930s, with competitions, social gatherings, and strong community involvement.

During the Second World War, the land was requisitioned for farming. Although limited play continued, the club never fully recovered in the post-war years and closed in the late 1940s. We extend our thanks to the current owners of Shrigley Fold and to Mr Bill Milligan for their invaluable contributions to this history.

If you have memories, photographs, or information about Hurdsfield Golf Club, we would love to hear from you.

Higher Hurdsfield: History and Personal Memories

Our approach to researching Parish history includes identifying historic buildings, reviewing surviving written materials — including the 1908 Centenary History of the Hurdsfield Sunday School — and gathering personal recollections. We are already grateful to several residents who have generously shared their memories.

If you have stories, documents, or photographs that could help us continue this work, please get in touch.

Early Life in the Parish

Two hundred years ago, Higher Hurdsfield looked very different. Few of today’s houses existed. Instead, there were scattered cottages, small farmsteads, and a toll bar near Higher Fence Road. Coal mining on the Swanscoe Estate provided employment for some residents, while others worked in local industry.

Life was simple and often harsh. Streets were unlit, and travel after dark required lanterns or candles. Educational opportunities were limited, and leisure pursuits included traditional country sports. The Parish landscape would have been dominated by open countryside, with wide views stretching across Cheshire and beyond.

The Sunday School and Religious Life

Education in the early 19th century was scarce for working families. Through the efforts of local supporters, a Sunday School was established in 1808, initially operating from farm buildings. By 1811, 140 children were being taught to read and write, prompting the construction of a dedicated school building on land known as House Croft.

The Sunday School remained central to Parish life for over two centuries, finally closing in 2015. Many residents recall Sunday School parades, community pride, and the strong social bonds fostered there. A Roll of Honour commemorating 113 former scholars who served in the First World War — ten of whom died — is now displayed at Christ Church.

The Ebenezer Methodist Chapel, once known locally as the Railway Chapel, also played an important role in Parish life. Social gatherings, celebrations, and community events brought residents together for generations.

Help Us Continue the Story

Higher Hurdsfield’s history is rich, varied, and still unfolding. If you live in the Parish — or have connections to it — and would like to share memories or historical information about any building or location, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please contact the Parish Clerk to help us preserve and celebrate the heritage of Higher Hurdsfield.