Bridport's industry.
Quite correctly, Dorset is generally regarded as a rural and largely agricultural county. So it is not surprising that the county's industrial history is often overlooked and that many people raise a quizzical eyebrow when mention is made of Dorset's industry! However, most towns did have an industrial aspect to them.
The carving shown above illustrates Bridport's ancient industrial base, manufacturing goods from flax and hemp that were grown in the surrounding area. For centuries, it flourished as the pre-eminent source of rope, twine and netting in South-West England. One of the earliest written records of the industry goes back to the 13th century when In 1213 King John ordered “to be made at Bridport, night and day, as many ropes for ships both large and small cables as you can, and twisted yarns for cordage for ballistae”.
The industry survives to this day. For example, a company called Coastal Nets sells a wide range of netting with at least some in-house manufacturing.
Bridport's industry.
Quite correctly, Dorset is generally regarded as a rural and largely agricultural county. So it is not surprising that the county's industrial history is often overlooked and that many people raise a quizzical eyebrow when mention is made of Dorset's industry! However, most towns did have an industrial aspect to them.
The carving shown above illustrates Bridport's ancient industrial base, manufacturing goods from flax and hemp that were grown in the surrounding area. For centuries, it flourished as the pre-eminent source of rope, twine and netting in South-West England. One of the earliest written records of the industry goes back to the 13th century when In 1213 King John ordered “to be made at Bridport, night and day, as many ropes for ships both large and small cables as you can, and twisted yarns for cordage for ballistae”.
The industry survives to this day. For example, a company called Coastal Nets sells a wide range of netting with at least some in-house manufacturing.