The Story of Rock Nook Mill
Rock Nook Mill is integral to the town's history in Littleborough, near Rochdale, Greater Manchester. It was built in the 1850s during the Industrial Revolution and was initially established as a cotton spinning mill. The mill was strategically located on what is now the tranquil tourist tributary of Rochdale Canal at the base of the South Pennines. When the mill was operational, the canal provided easy access to transportation routes and a steady supply of water power to fuel the mill's machinery.
Towards the end of its functioning life, Rock Nook Mill's commitment to technological progress was showcased through its pioneering use of aramid and carbon fibres. These fibres are known for their durability, strength, and resistance to wear and tear. They are commonly used in protective clothing, such as firefighting gear, motorcycle racing suits, and body armour.
Sadly, a fire in 2015 sealed the fate of Rock Nook Mill. However, its legacy will continue to inspire future generations to push the boundaries of what is possible. Although the physical structure is gone, efforts have been made to document its history and ensure that its significance in the heartland of the Industrial Revolution is remembered.
The Canal Network
Carrying over half a million tons a year, in the early 1840s, the canal trade began to suffer from competition from the railways. Wide barges typically had three crew, and a 'fast boat' leaving Manchester in the evening would deliver its cargo to Todmorden early the following morning. These craft used galloping horses, which they changed every few miles, and were known as 'fly boats', giving rise to the term 'fly by night'.
The Cycle Network
I will write in greater detail later, but in short, the yesteryear transport network of industrial wonder is now nature's haven with tree-lined canals and old rail track routes that cover the country, and thanks to #SUSTRANS, these are expanding yearly.
For humanity to develop and live in equilibrium with nature will always be challenging. Still, we must for future generations to have any hope of living long and fruitful lives.
What will your creation leave behind?
How do we assist undeveloped countries not to make the same mistakes we have on the road to revolution?
#rocknookmill #rochdalecanal #industrialrevolution #canalside #canalrivertrust #Liebherr #warmshowers #nationalcyclenetwork #sustrans #recyclereuse #freddibnah
Resources:
https://www.freddibnah.org/ - what a legend