“Monkey Town” is more than just a quirky nickname. It is a glimpse into Heywood’s vibrant past. Heywood, a town in Greater Manchester, boasts a history stretching back to Anglo-Saxon times.
Heywood’s story begins with clearings in thickly wooded areas. The Saxons called these clearings “heys”. It is believed this gave the town its name. Another theory suggests “Heywood” means “the wood surrounded by a hedge” or “the wood surrounded by the stream”. The Anglo-Saxon word “haga” means hedge. “Ea” means water.
Originally part of Heap township, Heywood blossomed during the cotton industry boom. Its location became key. Excellent transport links to the M62 and M66 motorways transformed Heywood into a vital distribution center. Today goods flow easily through Heywood.
But how did Heywood earn the nickname “Monkey Town”? The story dates back to 1857. Irish immigrants pronounced “Heap Bridge” as “Ape Bridge”. The name “Monkey Town” stuck. This nickname even inspired stools with holes for monkeys’ tails. In reality these holes were for carrying the stools.
Heywood’s railways played a vital role in its industrial development. They connected the town to a national network. This network facilitated the import, export, and movement of workers. The East Lancashire Railway still operates as a heritage steam line. It runs between Heywood and Rawtenstall. Stops include Ramsbottom and Bury. Special events such as “days out with Thomas” and 1940s war weekends make it a popular attraction.
Heywood’s connection to the cotton industry is undeniable. The Queen Mother once visited Heywood to admire the high-quality cotton produced here. Heywood cotton mills even created the fabric for her 50th birthday celebration speech dress.
The parish church of St Luke the Evangelist dominates Heywood’s skyline. It stands as a focal point in the town center.
Peter Heywood, a magistrate who helped discover the Gunpowder Plot, hailed from Heywood. His family seat was Heywood Hall. Another Peter Heywood was aboard HMS Bounty during the infamous mutiny.
From its Saxon roots to its industrial prominence, Heywood continues to evolve. The town embraces its heritage. Heywood also looks forward to a bright future. “Monkey Town” might be a playful name. Heywood is a place with a story.