Orchard Mill Darwen 002

Orchard Mill, Darwen.rnEstablished in 1844 for power loom weaving by Walsh brothers. Members of the family had earlier connection with coal minning and handllom weaving in the Darwen area, Nathan Walsh, who eventually became the sole owner, was a junior partner of Darwen Paper Mills until the failure of 1842.rnA large spinning mill was added to the original shed in 1850-51. By 1864 43,120 mule spindles and 626 looms were in use, employing a workforce of c500. rnIn 1885 the executors of Nathan Walsh offered the mill, with 45,032 mule spindles and 780 looms for sale, During the following year the Orchard Mill Company Limited was recognised by Richard Thompson of Padiham, cotton spinner, and others, to take over the mill. The mill closed in 1895 and the site was acquired by Potters and Huntington of Belgrave. Between 1896-98 much of the original site was demolished and two new weaving sheds were etected. in a double engine house to drive the sheds. rnMike Rothwell.