The history of spinning and weaving in the town was shared at a recent talk by the Melksham and District Historical Association.
Earlier this month, 80 people, including 24 visitors, turned out to see history group member Rachel Newman, committee member Glenn Cox and secretary Peter Maslen show how spinning and weaving developed in the town.
The talk was held at the Melksham Assembly Hall. Chairperson of the Melksham and District Historical Association Paul Carter said, “Seeing the spinning in action helped the audience visualise what was happening in houses throughout the town, including Glenn’s own property. Peter then discussed how industrialisation of the process affected the ‘cottage industry’, including a riot at the Matravers Mill, now the site of the former Avon Tyres entrance.”
The next talk at Melksham Assembly Hall will be ‘Town Halls of Wiltshire’ on Thursday 19th February at 7.30pm.
Membership continues to remain open at £18 and visitors are always welcome at £4.
The full programme of talks is now available via the group’s website http://www.melksham historicalassociation.org/
Pictured: Rachel Newman demonstrating spinning
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