CROMFORD WI NOVEMBER MEETING 'FROM WIGS TO WEALTH' RICHARD ARKWRIGHT

Our informed and interesting speaker, Dave Berry talked us through Arkwright's life – from his very lowly beginnings in a poor family from Lancashire to his wig making apprenticeship, his famous water powered cotton spinning machine, factory building and finally to finding fame and fortune as one of the richest men in England. At one time declaring he could 'pay off the country's debt' – which he declined to do incidentally!

We learned about the court battles and rivalry in the industry and the machine breakers fighting the loss of labour and traditional methods in the industry.

In fact, Arkwright lost out to rivals in his later career as his costly patents were challenged. However, his name became known throughout the country and worldwide as one of the major creators of the Industrial Revolution, and the village of Cromford as a shining and efficient example of a prosperous working mill village.

Despite his wealth he was never able to live in his magnificent purpose built Willersley Castle as fire engulfed it during construction. It needed extensive repairs and he had a sad demise at Rock House in Cromford overlooking his precious castle and ground breaking and revered, Cromford Mills.

The ladies were extremely attentive to the fascinating narrative and slides (possibly partly with the promise of a quiz and prize!) In fact, there were 2 quizzes to check our knowledge of the entrepreneur; the village and the era, which Margaret won with an amazingly high score – even beating Janet!!

Cromford ladies are looking forward to several events over the festive season and beyond including (of course) meals out, entertainment by other WIs, speakers, activity sessions, visits and hopefully an exchange with our twinning WI in the North East.

We meet on the 1st Wednesday of the month at Cromford Institute (village hall) 7/7.15pm – all ages welcome!

Christine Levasseur

President