textile transitions: ashton brothers, christy, and the changing face of hyde’s industry

The Ashton Brothers mill complex, included Carrfield Mill, Bayleyfield Mill, and Balaclava Mill, and stood as a key part of Hyde’s industrial landscape. Over time, the site was gradually dismantled — with Bayleyfield and Balaclava Mills reportedly demolished around 2008, and the remaining buildings cleared by January 2013. These mills were central to Hyde’s identity,… Read More textile transitions: ashton brothers, christy, and the changing face of hyde’s industry

Children Working in Ashton Brothers’ Cotton Mills in Hyde

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Ashton Brothers’ cotton mills in Hyde, Cheshire, were significant employers in the region. A substantial portion of their workforce consisted of children. These young labourers endured challenging conditions, with their daily routines characterised by long hours, minimal wages, and exposure to hazardous environments. Living Conditions Many child… Read More Children Working in Ashton Brothers’ Cotton Mills in Hyde