The Heritage of the Textile Industry

Abstract

The textile industry is a global phenomenon. It was the impetus for industrialisation, the growth of cities, the creation of company towns and world-wide trading routes in staple goods: silk, wool, linen, cotton, jute and artificial fibres. Facing global economic changes, textile mills have proved adaptable to new purposes. Many spearhead urban regeneration and secure the future identity of places. Which lessons do mill conversions give?

Which are the pioneers, the flagships, the giants, and the time capsules - machinery, and related skills? Which networks best demonstrate international interchange? Did associated company towns fail or prosper? Some are World Heritage Sites - is the balance correct? What attributes do these places share, what makes them different, and what is missing? This book condenses input by several researchers into the better understanding of textile mills worldwide.