We all have a history. Even the least of us.
The Providence was built by a local engineer
Called Tinker, as a speculation. It was the first mill
In Hyde where ring spinning was done. This
Was in 1887 (Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee)
After the previous spinning block had been rebuilt
Following a fire. The insurance money covered
The damage (thank God) and Tinker
Used the funds to modernise and re-equip.
Before the payout, the mill was nothing special.
Four brick storeys, settled on deep foundations,
Each level measuring 120 feet by 80 feet, with
A fanciful tower, set at the far corner. A flat-topped
Pyramid, surrounded or guarded (depending
On your imagination) by unnecessary railings.
Architecturally unremarkable.
There used to be a coal pit (Peacock)
On the opposite bank of the canal
Which helps explain the location.
The Providence was first leased to a family firm
Walker, Robert & Sons, who made it a success.
Carding and preparation on the lower floors.
Spinning above. Robert passed it forward
To his boys, William and John, who registered
The business as a Limited Company, before
Selling at a profit to Scottish Artificial Silks
And from them, to Schofields. Brothers, I think.
Before the Ashtons (1939) intervened.
I doubt either
Of my parents knew any of this. They came
Direct from Hatting (which had collapsed)
Following on from their wedding vows
And the consequences of war.
Anyway. Here we are.
Years ahead of time.
Up to date as spaceships
Using zips instead of buttons.
Zapping history with remote
Controls, finding freedom of a sort.
.
Steven Taylor
.