The Saltaire Village was built in the 19^th century by the Victorian Sir Titus Salt and since the place is situated near the river Aire, hence the name ‘Saltaire’. Titus Salt built the textile mills to provide self contained living space for its workers and better work force. The Salt Mill is something worth visiting. It’s a huge L shaped building with four floors. Currently the Mill is transformed into a Gallery which speaks everything and work used to take place during those days. The architecture is simply brilliant, a typical British style. The huge pillars, curved roof made the structure look classy.

Just opposite to the Mill was the Church- United Reformed Church built by Sir Titus Salt. The church is known for its remarkable Italianate Architecture around the world. I happened to have a brief chat with the person who looks after the church. 

He was kind enough to share some information about those early days – It was like a huge number of Indians were brought to the UK as labourers to build the mill. The workers living condition was very bad initially. He continued saying that the house condition was pathetic. It was one room house and a toilet was shared by 15 houses situated near the end of each lane. That brought unhygienic conditions leading to widespread Cholera. Many people lost their lives and living conditions became unbearable. 

The houses were reformed then to have one bathroom in each house, resulting in better health of the people. For the workers needs and concerns, Titus Salt decided to have a purpose built industrial village called as Saltaire Village.