8 A HANDBOOK FOR SOUTHPORT. 



a stationary engine. The original work was commenced in 

 1859. The entire structure was widened and lengthened 

 in 1864. 



When the water is out, the broad firm sands, which in parts 

 stretch like a Sahara, are incomparable for horse exercise. 

 Their substantial character, and the certainty of doing no 

 mischief, recommended them for the early experiments made 

 with the Whitworth long-range artillery. At the present day 

 they are resorted to, periodically, for drill and other military 

 exercises. 



Returning to Lord-street, it is impossible not to be arrested 

 by the pile of noble public buildings above referred to, and 

 which may now be spoken of in detail. 



The original edifice was the old Town-hall, erected in 

 1853, and fairly classical in its columns and pediment. 

 Adjoining it is the still more handsome Cambridge Hall, 

 the foundation stone of which was laid in 1872 by the Duchess 

 of Teck. It was opened in 1874 by Sir R. Cross. The total 

 cost was ,30,000. The very elegant tower at the south 

 front corner, with illuminated clock and a peal of bells, at 

 once attracts the eye of every visitor to the town. The interior 

 contains many spacious and well-proportioned apartments, and 

 is partly occupied by the Post-office. The great hall is 

 capable of holding 2,000 persons. Contiguous, in turn, to the 

 Cambridge Hall are the Atkinson Art Gallery and the 

 Atkinson Free Library, erected in 1877, at a cost of ,8,000, 

 which large sum was wholly provided by the munificent 

 gentleman whose name is attached to these most valuable 

 elements of the wealth of Southport the late Mr. William 

 Atkinson, originally a Manchester merchant. To this gentle- 



