THE story behind Bolton grand Le Mans Crescent can now be revealed after rarely seen documents were released this week.
The historical papers drawn up by Bolton architects which designed Le Mans Crescent are now on display for everyone to see.
The archives of Bradshaw Gass and Hope, which was established in 1862 by Jonas James, has been acquired by Bolton Library and Museum Service after successful funding applications to the Arts Council England / V&A Purchase Grant Fund, and the Art Fund.
The architects firm initially rose to prominence as designers of cotton mills but later gained recognition for a succession of large civic and commercial buildings, a high point being the rebuilding of the Manchester Royal Exchange in 1921.
In Bolton, they are best known as the designers of Le Mans Crescent, which was completed in 1939.
Bradshaw Gass and Hope has worked from the same offices on Silverwell Street since 1871.
This year, the firm celebrates 160 continuous years of service in Bolton.
The Bradshaw Gass and Hope archive spans the full breadth and nature of the work undertaken by the practice between 1862 and the 1960s.
From large perspective drawings created for architectural competitions to business correspondence, the archive covers several thousand architectural commissions.
Head of Bolton Library and Museum Service, Sam Elliott, said: “The acquisition of the archive by the library and museum is a cause for celebration.
"Bradshaw Gass and Hope are responsible for some of Bolton’s best loved buildings including the iconic Le Mans Crescent.
“Thanks to the support of the funders, local people, researchers and students can now explore the complete history of this notable Bolton firm.”
Architectural historians, Jane and Timothy Lingard, said: “The Bradshaw Gass and Hope Archive is not only of local importance, but also of significance at a national level.”
Highlights from the archive will go on show in a special exhibition at Bolton Museum.
“Building Bolton: The Bradshaw Gass & Hope Story” opened on Saturday and runs until Sunday, June 26.
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