15. The Co-op

The co-operative movement in Todmorden started in the early 19th Century and expanded rapidly for the next 100 years. From one small store, the movement grew until there were general stores in every part of the area. The main store was in Dale Street and here furniture, carpets, millinery, drapers, gents' clothing and coal could be obtained. The 'Co-op' movement concerned itself with educational matters so when the town received it s charter in July 1896, they presented the town with their library of 8,000 books, and also presented the present library building to the town. Recent years have seen many amalgamations with other companies, and unfortunately, our local Co-op has suffered. The days of co-op checks and divi are no more.

IMAGES ARE NOT FOR SALE – Please, do not remove the watermark or strip the metadata, thank you. PLEASE NOTE: IMAGES ARE FOR PERSONAL USE ONLY - PLEASE DO NOT REPOST - For further information on the ROGER BIRCH COLLECTION please email danbirch1@hotmail.com