On this day in History 9th December 1868

John Bright received by the Queen on becoming President of the Board of Trade. He was sworn a Privy Councillor.

On this day in History 8th December 1886

- "Rochdale Times" first published bi-weekly.

On this day in History 7th December 1901

Mr. John Ellis's first execution; assists at double execution at Newcastle.

On this day in History 6th December 1882

Severe snowstorm; drifts 30 feet deep on the moors; mills stopped running due to operatives being unable to return to work.

On this day in History 5th December 1872

"The Esplanade" in Rochdale received its name on the suggestion of Alderman Taylor, a proposal to name the thoroughfare "Corporation Street" being defeated.

On this day in History 4th December 1919

Councillor H. Shawcross, J.P. (Chairman of the Rochdale Housing Committee) laid the foundation-stone of the first block of dwellings on the Spotland Estate.

On this day in History 3rd December 1868

Fagnani's portraits of Bright and Cobden, which hang in the Rochdale Town Hall, were presented to the town by Mr. T. B. Potter, M.P.

On this day in History 2nd December 1863

The "Southern Independence" Club essayed a lecture in the Rochdale Public Hall in favour of the Southern States. A great crowd attended. Supporters of the Northern programme ultimately got control of the hall and severley handled the lecturer.

On this day in History 1st Dec 1887

1st December 1887 - Rochdale Town Hall clock began to register time. Diameter of dials 11ft, 6ins., being 6ins less than the original; length of pendulum, 15ft.; weight of hour bell, 59cwts.