Bradford was a small market town in Yorkshire until the Industrial Revolution, when its proximity to coal, iron ore and water were instrumental in its fortunes. The city became a leading international textile manufacturer, nicknamed the 'wool capital of the world'. The wealth brought to the city was demonstrated by the civic pride instrumental in the construction of the magnificent city hall and many other buildings. Although Bradford's fortunes declined in the twentieth century as the textile industry shrank, much of the magnificent Victorian heritage of Bradford remains today, from its civic buildings, grand factory complexes such as Lister's Mill and Titus Salt's workers' village at Saltaire, to Little Germany, the area where many Jewish-German immigrants set up their homes and businesses. In recent years Bradford has sought to redefine itself, presenting a post-industrial face with the development of the university, the popular National Science and Media Museum and plans to redevelop a shopping centre in the heart of the city.
For those who are proud to live in Bradford, as well as those visiting, this book is a must. Look through these photographs and you will quickly see why this city in Yorkshire has such enduring appeal.
