Patons Mill
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Patons Mill or as it was originally known Johnstone Mills. Was built in 1782. Built by the Corse and Burns Company.It is thought to be the first machine factory in the world, with it’s original lathe still in place.
The mill in High Street was opened originally as a cotton-spinning factory and was extended 104 years later in 1886. With an additional six storey mill complete with tower.
Patons took over the mill in 1896 and they operated a successful business for nearly ninety years. Manufacturing many millions of pairs of boot and shoe laces, dominating the British market.
At its height Patons produced about 25 million pairs of boot and shoe laces each year, as well as tapes, braids and cord.
In 1990 the Irish company Punch Industries. Bought the site and despite substantial investment in equipment and the expansion of the workforce. They finally closed the operation in 2003, moving production elsewhere.
Since 2003 the mill has been victim to thefts and arson attacks which has gutted certain sections of the site. Leaving some sections completely destroyed. Currently the mill is Grade I listed so no work can be carried it out to restore it.
Despite the majority of the site being gutted there is still quite a bit to see. The boiler house is still fully equiped which was a pleasent surprise but some of the main floors in the six storey section of the mill are bare.
The top floor believe it or not was where we found quite a few historic pieces and bits of machinery which wasnt expected.
The rest of the site though is pretty much hit and miss with odd bits and bobs scattered here and there. The bonus find though was a few pairs of old boots that were made here as well as some insoles and laces.
Its a shame really that the mill is in such a bad state. but since its Grade I listed little can really be done to repair it.
Its a site thats worth seeing because of its historical significance and accomplishments but apart from that it doesnt really hold much else.
Whats left of the site wouldnt really justify seeing it for its artifacts still in situ, its more of a site to visit if you are genuinally interested in industrial heritage and the likes or simply passing by.
And interesting explore none the less.
