Bradford & District | Archive | 2001 | July | 6
From the Telegraph & Argus, first published Friday 6th Jul 2001.
World-famous photographer Alex Keighley (1861-1947) stands with Steeton Rose Queen and her retinue round the lily-pond in his old-English garden at Steeton High Hall, probably in the later 1930s. This was for many years an annual event, usually in June or early July. Alex Keighley was a Yorkshire pioneer of the Open Garden Movement launched in 1927. The grounds of his 17th-century manorhouse, `a model of old-world charm and taste', were opened to the public several times each summer, donations going to Keighley Victoria Hospital. Visitors could admire the topiary, the L-shaped lawn, the roses and herbaceous borders, and such features as a dove-cot, a giant sundial and a huge beech and yew encircled by seats. There was also an opportunity to view his latest work, and an open-air concert usually given by Steeton Male Glee Union or Silsden Male Voice Choir. A kindly and hospitable gentleman, he welcomed many organisations to his garden. A party in 1938 to celebrate the 55th anniversary of his taking up photography attracted 600 fellow-photographers! The photo was supplied by Michael Shearing, of Utley.
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