Swanskin Display in the Exchange

Swanskin was a product whose manufacture provided a living for families in the Blackmore Vale area for generations, approx. 200 years.

It has nothing to do with swans. It was a coarse, wool based cloth known for its warmth and waterproof qualities – hence its popularity amongst those working in the harsh Newfoundland fishing industry. It was also white, which probably gives rise to its name.

The North Dorset industry dates back at least to 1578 when Sturminster clothier James Yonge is recorded seeking tax relief on cloth sold to mariners “going beyond the seas”.

In 1610 a fulling mill was built adjacent to the grain mill and the trade expanded until in 1793 no fewer than 1200 people were employed, producing 4000-5000 35yard pieces per year. (compare 1200 with total 3500 population in 1990)

The replacement of the fulling mill with a grist mill and the increased industrialisation of production in the north heralded the demise of the local industry and economy. Significant numbers of merchants and workers migrated to Newfoundland to start a new life in settlements like Twillingate and Fogo. They took their family names, Dorset culture and dialect all of which is still evident today in these areas of Newfoundland.

(Information from “A Habit From The Past” Roger Guttridge 03/2017)