The Wool Exchange.

The Wool Exchange Bradford.
One of the best buildings they didn't pull down in the 1960's.

Built between 1864-1867. Designed by Lockwood and Mawson.
The foundation stone was laid by the then Prime Minister Lord Palmerston.
see centre photo.

The main hall has a very fine hammer - beam roof.
See photo bottom right.

It is now mainly occupied by Waterstones book shop.
see photo bottom left.

There is a coffee shop on the mezzanine floor.
see photo top left
Great views through the modern plate-glass windows. ( Note my delicious lemon drizzle cake!)

The statue of Richard Cobden 1804 - 1865
Top right photo.
Made of Carrara Marble.
Unveiled 1877.
Inscription:-
"This statue was a gift of the late George Henry Booth a citizen of the united states of America and is intended to mark his appreciation of the character and labours of the late Richard Cobden as well as to serve as a memorial of the donors residence for many years as a merchant in Bradford."
" Cobden Free Trade Peace Goodwill among nations."

G.H.Booth was a partner in the firm Firth Booth & Co. Stuff Merchants in Bradford.

We did actually go to Bradford to research more of my family tree, but the Library is closed. Due to move to new premises at the end of December!

However it wasn't a wasted journey, as it was a trip down memory lane for us both.
Many things have changed, but it was surprising how many old buildings there are left.
Ignore the ground floors. You just need to look up!