Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Higher Ardwick 1990/2012: From Union to Spicy Grill


In May 2010 I published some photographs of the Dukinfield Arms on Old Hyde. They were taken by Alan Young, a guitarist with the classic rock band, Par Avion from Charleston, WV, who came over in June 1990, together with Tim Thompson (manager & bass guitarist), Brian Young (drummer), Tena Hall (vocalist and now his wife) and Dennis Loudermilk (sound technician). They stayed at the Dukinfield Arms while doing a number of gigs in the area.


He sent me several photos which I matched with modern views. However I was unable at the time to place these photographs of The Union. Recently, though, I discovered an entry in the Pubs of Manchester blog, which places it in Higher Ardwick.


Alan's photograph, featuring Dennis, Brian and Tena, shows that is was then a Wilson's pub. It later changed to the Burtonwood brewery before closing down in 2009.

(Click on image to view full-size version)

A week ago I went to check it out for myself. I found it on the corner of Union Street and Higher Ardwick. It has been converted into the "Spicy Grill", a tandoori takeaway which still advertises a "A Warm & Friendly Welcome".

(Click on image to view full-size version)

On the opposite side of Higher Ardwick is the former Ardwick Conservative Club which was built in 1878. That is now occupied by the "Bead Shop" which offers a range of jewellery making classes.

A contribution to Our World Tuesday.


7 comments:

  1. Great tour of your area!! Boom & Gary of the Vermilon River, Canada.

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  2. It's nice to see the buildings remain even though the owners and businesses have changed.

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  3. Great detective work Gerald!!! The man pointing at the sign is Dennis Loudermilk, our sound technician. I told you it was my brother Brian in error (he's actually in the background of that same pic). Wish I could come back over and see the places in person.

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  4. wonderful post and photos and great find ~ (A Creative Harbor) ^_^

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  5. Interesting post, fantastic photographs. I am greeting

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  6. Glad to see this lovely old building still being used and not knocked down and the land used for a supermarket or student flats

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