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Sign in or register for an accountLearn about Noah Robinson, a key figure in the development of Swinton. Explore his life and lasting impact on our town.
This shelter, traditionally used for holding coffins before funerals, features a unique carving of St Peter holding the keys to heaven and the book of judgement. Look closely, and you'll see the face of a Victorian gentleman. This is Noah Robinson, honoured for his significant role in Swinton’s history and the church.
Noah Robinson was born in 1826 on Chapel Street and moved to Swinton when he was six years old. His father built the Albert Mill, a major landmark until the late 1900s.
The Albert Mill was an important factory in Swinton that helped the town grow by providing jobs and boosting the economy. His work with the mill and other projects helped improve the town's roads and buildings and shows how much he cared about making Swinton a better place to live and work.
Marriage and Family In 1867, Robinson married Mrs. Howarth, a widow. Though they had no children together and she died within a year, Mrs. Howarth's daughter from her first marriage stayed with Robinson. He spent much of his life at Poplar House on Chorley Road, opposite St Peter’s Church.
Robinson cared deeply about education. He noticed many children in workhouses couldn’t read or write.
Through his active role at St Peter’s Church, Noah Robinson was instrumental in advancing education in Swinton. He organised the construction of a new church building and played a crucial part in establishing a school linked with the church. Serving as the school’s Treasurer, Robinson ensured that it had the necessary financial support to operate smoothly. He also held the position of parishioners’ warden, overseeing various aspects of church affairs and community engagement.
Robinson’s dedication at St Peter’s Church not only expanded educational opportunities but also strengthened its role as a focal point for community development and cohesion in Swinton.
From 1862 to 1865, the Cotton Famine caused by the American Civil War led to many people in Swinton losing their jobs and living in poverty. Noah Robinson stepped in to help those who were struggling. He joined efforts to provide relief and support to the affected families. In 1865, he became a Poor Law Guardian, a role he held until 1901. As a Poor Law Guardian, he worked tirelessly to make life better for the poor, ensuring they had access to food, shelter, and other basic needs.
Noah Robinson started helping the town of Swinton with its roads in 1841. The Pendleton Road Trust Bill of 1836 paid for new roads with money from tolls, but people didn’t like paying them, so they stopped. Robinson then helped towns and counties pay for road repairs.
Improving Sanitation and Health: In 1866, a disease called cholera spread in Swinton and made many people sick. Robinson saw that the town needed better ways to clean and get water. In 1867, he made the Swinton Local Board to fix this. They made better pipes for water and gas, which made life healthier for everyone in Swinton.
Noah Robinson died in July 1907 at the age of 80. His funeral was a big event in Swinton. The Albert Mill closed for the day, and flags were flown at half-mast. Many people lined the streets to honour him as his funeral procession passed by. Robinson was buried at Eccles Parish Church.
Robinson’s impact on Swinton is still remembered today. The unique carving on the lychgate of St Peter’s Church is one way he is honoured. His hard work and vision played a big role in creating the modern Swinton we know today.
Find Swinton and Pendlebury History Society and Swinton Irwell Valley History Group on Facebook to learn more about the history of Swinton.