Visit to the Coldharbour Mill Project

“Who knew Devon still had a working textile mill?” Once at the heart of the Devon textile industry Coldharbour Mill displays the steam driven machinery used to produce a range of woollen products. Uniquely the mill was a major manufacturer of Puttees, a key part of British Army uniform in the 19^th and 20^th Centuries. In the present day the mill still produces woollen products and provides the opportunity for young people to understand and demonstrate the skills involved in the textile industry.

A group of The Arts Society members and friends had the opportunity of a guided tour of the mill which began with a visit to the Conservation Room. There they were shown the work that is being undertaken by a group of volunteers including The Arts Society members from three local societies. Coldharbour Mill has recently been awarded the King’s Award for Volunteering. In recognition of this award two of the volunteers are shortly to attend a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace and will be wearing waistcoats made using one of the tartan materials made in the mill.

The Group agreed that the visit was extremely interesting and engaging, and enjoyed by all.