The Crofthead
Mill has a long history with Neilston and has been involved in many
technological advances in the textile industry as well as playing
a large part in the development of Neilston as a village.
It has been part of the community for nearly 200 years with many generations of families learning trades and gaining employable skills. This has led to many local villagers becoming managers in many of the companies overseas business
If you wish to add any important dates then send us the information via our contact us page. we will gladly add your information about Neilston Mill.
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Mill Survey
When were you employed
by the Neilston Mill
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Crofthead Mill Established
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| 1792 |
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Original Mill founded in 1792 by James Orr & Co |
| 1859 |
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Purchased by R.F. & J Alexander who already owned cotton mills in Duke street, Glasgow. |
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| Royal Approval |
| 1890 |
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R.F. & J Alexander awarded royal warrant from Queen Victoria for their ball sewing threads and exported their threads all over the world.
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| 1891 |
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Current mill was built due to increased orders from all over the world. |
| 1898 |
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R.F. & J Alexander became part of the English Sewing Cotton Co LTD |
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| Major Expansion
at Mill |
| 1900 |
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Mills employed more than 1000 employees producing threads which was then wound on balls, spools and cops.Large amounts of workers travelled from the Duke street mills. The Company builds 250 mill houses to cope with the expansion
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| 1910 |
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On 12th May, 1910, The Crofthead Mill management
made changes to wage rates and production speeds for 120 girls who
worked in the copwinding dept. The changes caused a strike which lasted
for 11 days and victory for the workers.
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| 1949 |
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Introduction of employee long service award. This award was given to employees with more than 41 years service with the company. This award was changed in 1976 allowing employees with 25 years to be eligible.
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| 1963 |
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Partnership with Tootal Broadhurst Lee Co LTD with company still trading under its own name.
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| 1969 |
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Merger with Calico Printers Association to form Calico English LTD
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| 1973 |
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Company changes its name to the Highly respected Tootal Brand which was well known for its high quality and service.
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| 1975 |
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Mill threads were their on the ascent of Mount Everest by a climbing expedition in the form of threads used in the climbers boots.
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| Mill Closure |
| 1992 |
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Closure of Crofthead Mill and major staff redundancies, transferral of remaining production and staff to mill in Newton Mearns factory.
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