Early History

1724
Daniel Defoe went over Blackstone Edge in a snow storm.
The house called Old Falinge was erected at this time.

1745
Charles Wesley visited the town, he came again in 1752 and preached at Bankhouse, Bagslate.
Also in 1752 St. Chads Vicarage was rebuilt by Dr. Dunster.

1777
 The coach from Rochdale to London started, this journey took 5 days.

1787
The first steam engine in the district was erected at a colliery in Smallbridge.

1780
John Wesley, then aged 87 visited Rochdale for the last time.