I came across this object while browsing in an antique shop in Bedale. It must be cast iron as it was very heavy. I assume it’s from a gas holder or associated gas plant equipment built by “Ashmore & While” at their Hope Iron Works which later became Parkfield Works.
Photograph and details courtesy of Jonathan May.
Just one of their constructions…
http://www.batterseagasholders.com/history.html
It’s strange where an internet search can lead you…
“Ashmore & While” became “Ashmore, Benson, Pease & Co.” which lead to a link to a video about some of the after effects at Hiroshima (not a pleasant topic, but nothing upsetting in the video) . Near the beginning of the film it shows a ” nuclear shadow” caused by a steel ladder that happens to be leaning against an “Ashmore, Benson, Pease & Co.” manufacture’s plate.
https://youtu.be/sHF5y-lI2jw?t=63
William Ashmore was a relative of mine, he and While came, originally, from Staffordshire, and of course the company became Ashmore Benson & Pease.
Jonathan, did you buy this? If not, where exactly did you find it? I would be quite keen on acquiring it.
Hi Ted, the shop was called “Red House”, it’s next door to the “Waggon & Horses” on the Market Place, Bedale. (http://www.redhousebedale.co.uk/)
The plate should be in a museum really. Good luck with getting it, and I hope you’ve got somewhere substantial to keep it as it was very heavy.
Looking at the Parkfield Works on an 1895 map, their perfectly circular rail tracks now make perfect sense, ideal for building gas holders.
http://www.gracesguide.co.uk/Ashmore_and_While