When linen was an important part of Co Down’s economy

When linen was an important part of Co Down’s economy

22 March 2023

THE Dan Rice Hall in Drumaness was the venue last week for a fascinating event focusing on the local linen industry.

Around 90 people attended the event which was organised by the Rowallane and Slieve Croob Community Twinning Group, who were delighted with such a large turnout on a wet Wednesday afternoon.

Everyone in attendance throughly enjoyed the presentation, which was compiled by esteemed local historian Horace Reid and presented by Francis McLean.

Francis brought the presentation to life by sharing his own memories of growing up in the mill village of Drumaness.

The presentation included a history of the linen industry, with particular reference to the Ballynahinch, Drumaness and Dromara area, its importance to community life, such as education and recreational facilities, and the many processes involved in linen production, beginning with the cultivation of flax, which was a major crop in East Down.

It was a major industry during the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century, but fell into decline after the end of the Second World War, a victim of cheaper imports and the arrival of new man-made figures such as polyester.

Orders for linen thread fell off and the mills were shut down, Drumaness closing its doors in 1968, thus ending the village’s industrial heritage.

However, last week’s event brought back plenty of happy memories. Janet Clark and Francis McLean displayed an impressive array of photographs and press articles around the hall, which may be reproduced digitally and preserved for future generations.

The Rowallane and Slieve Croob Community Twinning Group wishes to thank everyone who provided their assistance in making the event such a success. 

In particular they wish to thank Norma Gilgunn and others for sharing their memories and for providing names of persons in the photographs, Anne McAleenan for providing a digital copy of an old VHS video, Robert McCormick from the BBC who shared a short video, which can be downloaded via a link until April 15.

Thanks are also extended to the staff of the Dan Rice Hall, the committee of the Rowallane and Slieve Croob Community Twinning Group, who provided the refreshments and managed the raffle, Shauna McLean, who managed the PowerPoint presentation, Francis McLean, Michel Richer for helping in setting up the hall, Dr Winston Shaw for providing the cinema-sized projection screen and Newry Mourne and Down Council and the Ultach Fund for the funding.

Finally, thanks are also extended to Horace Reid, who has worked with the Rowallane and Slieve Croob Community Twinning Group and other historical, church and community groups to provide research and a record of local history, culture and heritage.

A collection raised £200 for the Brain Waves charity, which supports adults and children with brain injuries.