File makers workshop, Wharncliffe Side

137 Main Road, Wharncliffe Side, S35 0DP Lean to workshop attached to house.

Building

Roofed and walled permanent structures.

Asset type

Building/structure (industrial/domestic workshop)

Age

Constructed between 1855 and 1864. Relates to a key local industry in the 19th and 20th centuries, and one for which little other physical/architectural evidence survives.

Rarity

A very rare survival (in this area) of a domestic/rural tool makers workshop with historic features, including doors, windows, roof and internal features. surviving unrestored. At one time these workshops would have been common in the villages around North Sheffield, but there are now very few. They are very vulnerable to change (and loss) as they are small and basic structures. The small number that do survive have mainly been incorporated into dwellings and have lost their internal features (hearths/anvils etc).

Architectural and Artistic Interest

Although it is a simple structure, the low lean-to workshop is a distinctive vernacular style (using local stone) that contributes to the collective memory of the village. It is a surviving, visible monument to domestic tool making in the 19th and 20th centuries, an important trade in this part of Sheffield, and an example of a building type that would once have been a commonplace sight, but is now a rarity. It also retains original external features, including doors and windows (although these are in poor condition).

Group Value

Although small, the building is in a prominent location within the village (on the main road) and is a notable feature at the end of the terrace.

Historic Interest

Directly connected to the history of tool making in Wharnciffe Side, a trade that played a significant part of life in this area during the 19th and early 20th centuries, as part of a mixed rural/industrial economy.

Archaeological Interest

Contains significant original building fabric and authentic features (including hearths, workbench and stiddies) that help us understand its past development and use.

Landmark Status

Because of how unusual this building type now is, and it's prominent location on the main road through the village, it does act as a landmark in some respects. It is well-known locally, and certainly has potential to make a positive contribution to the amenity and townscape of the village if sensitively restored.

15 Aug 2022

15 Jun 2022