A Georgian Gem
Winckley Square stands as one of Preston’s finest examples of Georgian architecture, with its elegant red brick buildings, black doors with brass fittings, and distinctive arched fanlight windows dating back to 1805. The square represents the pinnacle of Georgian town planning and has been home to some of Preston’s most notable residents.
Notable Residents
The square’s most famous resident was Edith Rigby, Preston’s celebrated suffragette who lived at number 28. Married at age 20 to Dr. Charles Rigby (who was 35), she became known as an extremely brave woman who fought tirelessly for women’s rights. Her courage in following her beliefs and passions made her a prominent figure in Preston’s history.
The square was home to various distinguished residents including:
• The Miller family (Co-owners of Horrockses)
• The Addisons (including Thomas Batty Addison)
• Various judges and prominent business figures
✦ Architecture and Design
The square features classic Georgian architectural elements including:
✦ Traditional red brick exteriors
✦ Iron railings
✦ Black doors with brass fittings
✦ Arched doorways with fanlight windows
✦ Spacious gardens at its center
Modern Heritage
Today, Winckley Square continues to be one of Preston’s most prestigious addresses, maintaining its historical significance while adapting to modern times. The gardens have been beautifully restored and are now a peaceful haven in the city center, just as they were designed to be over 200 years ago.
The square remains a testament to Preston’s rich history and continues to be a focal point of the city’s heritage, combining its historical significance with contemporary use.
Notable Residents of Winckley Square
William Cross – The Visionary Founder
The story of Winckley Square begins with William Cross, a local lawyer who purchased the land from Thomas Winckley in 1801. Cross had a vision to develop an exclusive residential district, creating what would become Preston’s finest Georgian square.
Edith Rigby – Preston’s Famous Suffragette
One of the square’s most celebrated residents was Edith Rigby, who lived at number 28 with her husband Dr. Charles Rigby and their adopted son Arthur (Sandy). She was a pioneering suffragette and social reformer, known for her brave stance on women’s rights. The building now bears a blue plaque commemorating her residence.
Notable Families & Residents:
• The Miller Family – Co-owners of Horrockses
• The Addisons – Including Thomas Batty Addison
• Dr. James German
• Nicholas Grimshaw
• Dorothy Heaton
• Cornelia Connelly
The square became home to Preston’s most prominent families, including successful industrialists, lawyers, and medical professionals, reflecting its status as the city’s most prestigious address.
The residents of Winckley Square played crucial roles in shaping Preston’s social, industrial, and cultural development throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries.
John Gorst was the original owner of No. 6 Winckley Square when it was built around 1805. The property was constructed as a large double-fronted town house during the initial development of Winckley Square.
During this period, there was also mention of Edward Gorst living in Winckley Place (as the west end of the square was then known), suggesting that the Gorst family had a significant presence in the area during the early 19th century.