Starkie Street Mill Darwen 003

Starkie Street Mill, Darwen. rnWeaving Mill, constructed in 1881-82 by James Pilkington, builder and contractor. Leased to Henry Cooper of Industry Mill, who wove teacloths, domestics and Mexicans, and employed 150 operatives. In 1897 the mill was purchased by James Watson, hard waste spinner of Sunnybank. Weaving machinery was removed and replaced by 3,400 mule spindles.rnJames Watson and Sons Ltd ran the mill until 1931 when spinning ended. although Watsons may have intended to reopen this did not happen. Since the 1930's various forms, including Paragon Wallpapers and Northern Box, have used the buildings. rnMike Rothwell