The Collections

Manufacturing and Industry

From weaving to paper-making, mining to valve production, Blackburn with Darwen has always been a centre of industrial innovation and creativity.

While cotton manufacture accelerated the growth of the borough during the Industrial Revolution, brewing, mining, paper-making, ceramic production and many other industries thrived alongside.

In the 20th century, light engineering industries became increasingly dominant and companies such as Mullard and the Royal Ordnance Factory were two of the biggest employers in the area.

Explore the collections and resources relating to the borough’s rich and diverse manufacturing history below. We are constantly adding new objects to Pinterest so keep checking our boards!

 

Collections:

 

 

Resources:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Films: