The architect W. H. Crossland designed Rochdale's magnificent gothic style Town Hall. It was completed in 1871 at a cost of £160,000. Alfred Waterhouse, architect of Manchester Town Hall, designed the present tower. It replaced the original tower, which was destroyed by fire on 10th April 1883. Legend has it that Hitler coveted the fine stained glass windows, planning to remove them to Germany on his hoped for victory. The front of the town hall has gargoyles and gilded statues of lions which bear the traditional emblems of Rochdale, Lancashire and Yorkshire. These are said to be a commemoration of the peace, to which Rochdale contributed, between the two historic counties. It was on the balcony of this building that Rochdale's own Gracie Fields received the Freedom of the Borough to crowds of thousands who turned out to greet her in the pouring rain. #City_Hall #England #Gothic_Revival #Lancashire #Neo_Gothic #Rochdale #Rochdale_Town_Hall #Town_Hall #UK
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