Joseph Whitwell

Joseph Whitwell pioneered the method of “forcing” rhubarb growth for commercial purposes at Hollybush Farm, Kirkstall, Leeds, in the 1860s. By 1871 his huge enterprise employed 28 people, in 1880 the Journal of the Royal Agricultural Society reported that Joseph Whitwell was the largest grower of forced rhubarb in a single location.

There is a blue plaque in his honour at Hollybush Conservation Centre, Broad Ln, Kirkstall, Leeds LS5 3BP

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