The introduction of a new manufacturing process in 1854 by Edward Rostron marked a significant development in the Rossendale district. This new industry involved the production of felt and emerged as a consequence of the declining importance of Rossendale as a traditional woollen manufacturing centre. The felt manufacture in the region evolved as a complementary industry to the existing dyeing and printing trades, taking advantage of the district’s favourable conditions for such operations. With its expertise in dyeing and printing, Rossendale became a conducive environment for the growth of the felt manufacturing sector.
Felt was transported from Leeds to Rossendale for dyeing and printing before being returned to Leeds post-processing. The abundance of pure water in Rossendale was believed to yield richer and more enduring colours compared to the water in Yorkshire, which had a higher chalk content. Edward Rostron, a key figure in a woollen manufacturing firm based in Stacksteads and Waterfoot, took the initiative to purchase felt from several of the 8 felt establishments in Leeds. Through his successful dyeing and printing processes, Rostron found such prosperity that he eventually ventured into producing felt himself at the Myrtle Grove Mills in Waterfoot.
The felt manufactured in Rossendale was utilized for a variety of products such as under carpets, bath mats, saddle felts, and notably printed carpets, which contributed to the region’s reputation for quality craftsmanship in this industry. The success of the business was initially driven by Edward, but the decline of the mill began after his retirement when his sons took over the operations. This decline ultimately led to the closure of the mill in 1881.
The merging of Richard Ashworth with Mitchells and Stansfield’s, along with Richard Rawlinson’s acquisition of Rostrons mill in 1888, marked the beginning of the felt manufacturing operations in the region. The collaboration and investments made during this period laid the foundation for the production and advancement of felt products in the industry. The felt-making industry in Rossendale was dominated by only two factories during that period, with Mitchell, Ashworth, and Stansfield having acquired all other existing firms. Despite the consolidation in the industry, the workforce in the felt trade remained stable at around 1,000 employees.
The block printers of the last century were indeed colourful figures who played a significant role in the felt trade, particularly in the printing of felt carpets. These skilled artisans honed their craft in the woollen trade and adapted their expertise to create intricate and vibrant designs on felt carpets. Rossendale, a hub of textile production, was home to around 200 block printers before the 80s. These artisans brought creativity and artistry to the trade, transforming plain felt into beautifully printed carpets that were highly sought after for their quality and unique designs.