We came across some information on the Swansea Dye Works property, a.k.a. Swan Finishing, written in 1917.
About 1840, the first venture was a paper mill with straw paper manufactured by William Mitchell. Wood Avenue, the road leading to the Dye Works, was then known as The Paper Mill Lane.
After lying idle for some time, a bakery under the proprietorship of Howard and Mitchell was carried on for a number of years in the place of the paper manufacturer. The firm name was later changed to Monroe and Howard. Over the bake shop was a dancehall where many of the old timers enjoyed country dances.
The next business venture was by Mary I. Altham who, with her son James, carried on a small bleaching business for a short time. This business was subsequently taken up and enlarged by Mayall and Hacker, who had purchased the property. Hamlet Hacker eventually came into full possession later taking into company a Mr. Watson. The firm became known as Hacker and Watson.
During their ownership, the mill, a wooden structure, burned down. It was later rebuilt by Mr. Hacker who then sold out to John Monarch and the business was carried on under the name of Monarch's bleachery.
The business was then bought by James Butterworth of Somerset who was joined by James Kirker. It was during their possession that the building again was destroyed by fire. The building was rebuilt by Mr. Kirker who became the next owner.
The business was somewhat handicapped by using old machinery which was constantly in need of repairs. After Mr. Kirker. the business was carried on for a few years by the Eagle Turkey Red Company.
The business thenbecame the Swansea Dye Works with Charles Robinson as superintendent for a number of years. He was succeeded by Richard Booth who held the position for about 20 years.
In 1916 an addition was made on the south side of the building. The addition was 50 x 100 ft and two stories, increasing the capacity of the Works about 1/3 and making a department in which better quality goods with fast colors were finished.
(click on any text image to enlarge)
Swan Finishing was founded in 1958 by Ralph Guerreiro at the site of the former Swansea Print Works company.
With the installation of 20 electric motors at the Swansea Dye works, it may be interesting to note that the changes and improvements that have taken place at this establishment, and the other enterprises that formally stood on the site of the present flourishing plant.
back to top