Description:Steam engine manufactured by Robey & Co. Ltd. of Lincoln, used to drive machinery in the cotton mill at Mayfield.
Mayfield Mill has a long history of textile production dating back to 1795 when a cotton mill was built on what was already an industrial site. Following a fire in 1806, which resulted in the destruction of much of the machinery and the buildings interior, the Mill was rebuilt with a cast iron framework and brick vaulted ceilings to help reduce the risk from fire.
In 1866 the cotton mill was leased by brothers Joseph and George Simpson who rebuilt and enlarged the buildings. The business was owned by Simpson Bros Ltd. until 1932 when it was purchased by Mr C.H. Cowlishaw, a Uttoxeter solicitor. By December 1934 he had sold it to William Tatton & Co. of Leek and manufacturing changed to silk. This photograph was probably taken when Mr Cowlishaw was trying to find a buyer.
Since 1980 Mayfield Mill has been the home of Mayfield Yarns who continue to manufacture and supply a range of synthetic yarns (as of June 2020).
Photograph by Gerald McCann of Uttoxeter.