Nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, Ashes Farm in Selside stands as a timeless testament to the region's rich history. Built in 1660, this enduring structure is more than just a collection of stone and timber; it’s a portal to a bygone era, offering glimpses into the lives and stories of those who called this remarkable place home.
The Founding of Ashes Farm
Ashes Farm was established during the Restoration period, a time of significant change in England following the tumultuous English Civil War. In 1660, the year of the farm’s construction, King Charles II had ascended to the throne, bringing a sense of stability to the nation. In the rural corners of North Yorkshire, life was marked by a close connection to the land. Farming was the lifeblood of communities, and Ashes Farm was no exception.
The farm's original residents likely engaged in subsistence farming, raising livestock and growing crops to support their families and the small community of Selside. Surrounded by rolling hills and the rugged beauty of the Yorkshire Dales, the farm’s location offered fertile soil and access to natural resources, making it an ideal spot for agriculture.
Selside and the Surrounding Area in the 17th Century
Selside, a hamlet just a mile from the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct, was a modest settlement in the 17th century. The area was sparsely populated, with small farming families forming tight-knit communities. The Dales themselves were dotted with ancient packhorse routes, used for transporting goods like wool and limestone to larger market towns.
Life was challenging but rewarding. Residents worked tirelessly to cultivate the land, raise animals, and maintain their homes. Long winters brought cold and isolation, but the resilience of the people ensured their survival and prosperity.
The Industrial Revolution and the Arrival of the Railway
Fast forward to the 19th century, and the landscape around Ashes Farm began to change dramatically with the construction of the Settle to Carlisle Railway. Initiated in 1869, the railway was a marvel of Victorian engineering, designed to connect Yorkshire with Scotland. The Ribblehead Viaduct, an awe-inspiring structure with 24 arches, became the railway’s crowning achievement.
For the residents of Selside and Ashes Farm, the railway’s construction brought a mixture of excitement and upheaval. Thousands of navvies (laborers) descended upon the region, creating makeshift camps to house the workforce. These camps were vibrant yet rough communities, complete with makeshift schools, chapels, and even pubs.
Ashes Farm, positioned close to this industrial hub, would have witnessed the hustle and bustle of the railway’s creation. The farm likely served as a haven of stability amidst the chaos, providing a glimpse of rural continuity as the world around it modernized. Local farmers might have supplied food and materials to the workers, forming an economic connection to the project.
A Glimpse into Life at Ashes Farm
Living at Ashes Farm during this transformative time would have been a blend of old and new. By the late 19th century, farming practices had advanced, but daily life was still rooted in tradition. Residents might have gathered around a fire in the evenings, sharing stories of the bustling railway camps while tending to the timeless tasks of milking cows and baking bread.
The farm’s stone walls and rugged charm provided shelter and a sense of permanence in an ever-changing world. Its position near the Ribblehead Viaduct offered unparalleled views of a historic feat of engineering, creating a unique juxtaposition of natural beauty and human achievement.
Ashes Farm Today
Today, Ashes Farm continues to embody the spirit of the Yorkshire Dales. As a bed-and-breakfast and holiday destination, it welcomes visitors to experience the tranquility and history of this remarkable place. The nearby Ribblehead Viaduct serves as a reminder of the region’s industrial heritage, while the farm itself offers a glimpse into the lives of those who shaped its story over the centuries.
Visiting Ashes Farm is more than just a getaway—it’s a journey through time, where every stone tells a story, and the surrounding hills whisper of the resilience and determination of those who came before. Whether you're here to stargaze under the Dales' dark skies or explore the trails of Selside, the history of Ashes Farm adds an enriching layer to your stay.
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