New Lanark

views updated May 17 2018

New Lanark (Strathclyde), a factory village, was built by David Dale to exploit the water-power provided by the Clyde in 1784–5. Dale erected four cotton-mills and housing for over 200 families by 1793, the population consisting of Highlanders and pauper apprentices. In 1799 Dale sold New Lanark to Robert Owen, his son-in-law, and the village acquired a reputation as a profitable and contented community. Owen built schools and an Institution for the Formation of Character, demonstrating his commitment to environmental psychology and improving his work-force. After Owen, the village went through several changes of ownership and is now a museum conservation area.

John Butt