Gourock Ropework Co Ltd

Sectors:

  • Textile production Canvas, etc, production inc ship sails, tents, sacks, etc
  • Textile production Rope, twine & net production

Notes:

Traced origins to Gourock Ropework Co, established in 1777 at Gourock to make 'cordage and sailcloth' and which in 1797 merged with Port Glasgow Rope & Duck Co, established 1736. Emerged as a leading manufacturer of rope, sail canvas and, later, fishing nets. Noted also for waterproof canvas for tents, etc. Its chief owners from the 1790s, the Birkmyre family, invested heavily in local shipping and shipbuilding to secure their markets. Incorporated in 1903 when amalgamated with the Lanark Spinning Co of New Lannark Mills, originally connected with Robert Owen and David Dale, which the Birkmyre family had acquired in 1881. 1970 acquired by Bridon Ropes Ltd

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