About

Who was Lydia Becker?

Lydia Becker was a remarkable lady, devoting her life to humanitarian causes, and in particular Women' Suffrage and feminist campaigns.
Foxdenton Hall, was the family home and Lydia (the eldest of fifteen children), was the daughter of Hannibal Becker and Mary (Duncroft). Her father owned a Chemical plant in Chadderton, Lancashire, her grandfather having founded the firm when he emigrated from Germany. As was the custom among middle-class families Lydia and her sisters were educated at home.
After the death of her mother in 1855, Lydia had the responsibility of looking after her younger brothers and sisters. She also took up interests in Botany and Astronomy, winning an award in 1864 for her collection of dried plants. She wrote a book 'Botany for Novices' which was published in 1866 and also 'Elementary Astronomy'. It was this interest which began an acquaintance with Charles Darwin and eventually persuaded him to send one of his papers to the Manchester Ladies' Literary Society's, which she had founded.

For more information on Lydia Becker please visit Chadderton Historical Society

Lydia's Tearoom

Chadderton Together are delighted to be able to announce that the renovation of the Pavilion in Foxdenton Park has been completed.
The work was funded through grants from Viridor Credits, Heritage Lottery, Action Oldham and Oldham Council.

The new facility will house a cafe / meeting room and toilets that are open to the public.
It is anticipated that the building will become a focal point for community groups and also be used by members of the public visiting the park.
This is an exciting venture. The opportunities it will present for the residents of Chadderton and beyond are endless.