It is twenty years since Jonathan Silver bought Salts Mill; an event which is generally – and quite justifiably – regarded as the most important moment in the history of the Village since Sir Titus built it. Similarities between the two men, their contributions and the attitude which motivated them are many, legendary – and already well documented. Yet the wonderful thing is that, for all this, Jonathan and his legacy refuse to be confined under a heading of ‘History’. Whenever we mention the names Silver and Saltaire in the same breath (and it’s not easy not to), we are talking about the present and the future of the place we love.

The continued participation in so many aspects of life in Saltaire today by Jonathan’s widow Maggie and brother Robin cannot be over emphasised and should be celebrated. The Sentinel will be dedicating this column, every month this year, to a series of items to this end. As ever, readers’ contributions are invited. The Mill is also, of course, by far the largest outlet for this newspaper. We like to think that Jonathan – who, after all, used his position as editor of his school magazine to establish contact with David Hockney – would have been an interested reader.

SALTS MILL
First Opened 1853 and still
Opens Every Day
Attractions include
SALT’S DINER
Cafe in to the Opera
SALTAIRE HISTORY EXHIBITION
1853 Gallery
ADMISSION FREE
01274-531163