“Imagine, by the Wandle’s side, an old walled garden.” That’s how Merton Abbey Mills was described in 1900. Today, we stand at Merton Abbey Mills a place rich in history. It’s a former textile factory with a story that stretches back centuries.
Merton Abbey Mills gets its name from the medieval Merton Priory. This priory was a significant monastery in the Middle Ages. King Henry VI and Eleanor of Provence were both crowned here. Even Thomas Becket and Walter de Merton were educated here.
But in 1538, Henry VIII dissolved the priory. Most buildings were demolished. Yet, the spirit of industry lived on here at Merton Abbey Mills.
By 1600, textile mills were drawn to the River Wandle. Its waters were perfect for washing dyeing and printing fabrics. The River Wandle became one of Europe’s hardest-working rivers. By 1792 over a thousand people worked here.
The Wandle Valley became known for quality and innovation. Merton Abbey Mills remained a textile center for centuries. Liberty’s, the famous Regent Street store, operated silk-printing works here until 1970.
Liberty & Co. had been involved with Merton Abbey Mills since the 19th century. In 1904, Liberty & Co took over the Littler site. They continued to operate the Merton Abbey Mills until 1972.
Today, Merton Abbey Mills is a vibrant arts and crafts market. It hosts Abbeyfest a summer theatre and music festival. Some buildings from Liberty’s period still stand. You can even find displays about the site’s history.
Let’s talk about the waterwheel. Two hundred years ago, nearly 100 watermills powered the River Wandle. Only four survive today. The Merton Abbey Mills wheel is the only one in full working order. This undershot wheel dates back to 1885. Liberty’s used it to rinse gum off printed silk. Now, it powers a potter’s wheel in the Wheelhouse.
Now, turn your attention to the Colour House Theatre. It’s the oldest building here and is Grade II listed. Some believe parts of it came from the medieval priory. The Colour House was once used by Liberty & Co to mix dyes for silk printing.
William Morris also left his mark on Merton Abbey Mills. From 1881 to 1888, he ran his textile design and printing company here. He valued his workers providing fair wages a library and pleasant working conditions.
Liberty purchased the site in 1904. They replaced many dilapidated buildings. Block printing continued until around 1960. Some designs required up to 27 blocks. Eventually, screen printing took over. Liberty sold the site in the 1970s.
Merton Abbey Mills has transformed over the years. It stands as a testament to industry and artistry. It is a place where history creativity and community converge.