In 1894, an extensive work schedule of repairs was being carried out at Blantyre Mills. It was generally recognised that the mills were in decline by this time, the mining folks overshadowing the spinners but still there was hope that some sudden upsurge in work would happen.
During July of that year, exactly 130 years ago, extensive repairs were being carried out on the water wheels and sluice gates. Work was being done at the holidays so as not to disrupt business too much. Trade had NOT been good the previous 12 months at Blantyre Works, an area by then certainly in decline, but these repairs by Messrs Aitkehead & Sons (Builders of High Blantyre) allowed some hope that things would be in good order when trade improved. Still the old name of Monteith was held in remembrance, if only for the village they created, job opportunities, Kirk and school. The repairs were due to be completed by Wednesday 18th July 1894.
That upsurge in weaving never did come again and the mills were demolished in 1903. Pictured is Blantyre Works in these final years.
