Egerton Club, Smallbridge, Rochdale

ROCHDALE - A new club house is in course of erection at Smallbridge, near Rochdale, for the Egerton Club. The building was commenced a week ago; the sole contractor is Mr T. Crabtree, Rochdale. The materials used are pressed red bricks, with Yorkshire stone dressings. The street at back is 11 feet lower than that at the front, therefore, a good basement story is obtained. In the basement is a keeper's house, a kitchen, and cellarage for wine and beer; a hoist runs from basement up through bar to assembly room. The several rooms are heated by hot water, the boiler being in the cellar. The interior wood work is of pitch pine varnished. The cost, without furnishing, will be £1,500. The work is being carried out under the superintendence of the architect, Mr James Cheetham, of Rochdale, and a Late Gothic style has been chosen for the elevations. [Building News 3 June 1881 Page 656]

A NEW CONSERVATIVE CLUB FOR SMALLBRIDGE - On Saturday afternoon, Major Healey laid the corner stone of a Club at the village of Smallbridge in the presence of about 700 spectators. The building will cost about £1,600, and Mr. Councillor James Cheatham, one of the gentlemen who addressed the meeting, stated that it would be ono of the finest working men's clubs for 12 miles round Rochdale. A great many of the houses in the village were decorated with flags, banners, and bunting of various descriptions. [Manchester Courier - Saturday 9 July 1881 page 14]

The Hon. A. EGERTON opened on Saturday the new premises of the Smallbridge Conservative Club. The total cost of the building will be about £2,000. A banquet was subsequently held, under the presidency of Major Healey. [Manchester Courier - Monday 13 February 1882 page 4]

The Egerton building stands opposite Louise Street on Wardle Road. formerly a conservative  club with a bowling green at the rear now used by Lanctan bowling club.

Reference    Building News 3 June 1881 Page 656
Reference    Rochdale Observer 9 July 1881 page 3 – foundation stone
Reference    Manchester Courier - Saturday 9 July 1881 page 14 – foundation stone
Reference    Manchester Courier - Monday 13 February 1882 page 4 - opening