Mill of the Month: Manhattan Works
As part of our new Mill of the Month series, we have been looking at some of the jute mills that used to dominate Dundee. This month, we have been focusing on Manhattan Works, a mill with a storied past, located on Dundonald Street in the city’s Stobswell area.
Manhattan Works was constructed between 1873 and 1874 by the Thomson Brothers for Colonel Frank Sandeman, a prominent figure also associated with Stanley Cotton Mills. The mill was designed as a state-of-the-art facility for its time, reflecting the rapid industrial advancements of the era.
Amongst its most notable features was its engine house, which was equipped with ornate timber trusses that added a touch of elegance to the otherwise utilitarian structure. This engine house was home to Dundee’s first Corliss engine, a technological marvel that revolutionised the efficiency and output of industrial mills.
The Corliss engine, known for its superior fuel efficiency and power, was a significant upgrade from the traditional steam engines used in many mills. It allowed for better control of the machinery and played a crucial role in the production process at Manhattan Works.
This engine powered various machines within the mill, including the drawing frames, which were integral to the production of jute yarn. Drawing frames were used to process the raw jute fibres, thinning and straightening them into slivers that could be spun into strong, uniform threads. This was a critical step in ensuring the high quality of the jute products produced at Manhattan Works.
Over the years, Manhattan Works underwent several expansions as demand for jute products grew, both locally and internationally. In 1951, the mill saw significant reconstruction and the re-opening of several of its areas, further enhancing its production capabilities.
The mill became a bustling hub of activity, providing employment to a large portion of Dundee’s population.
The success of Manhattan Works, like many other jute mills in the city, contributed to Dundee’s reputation as the “Juteopolis” of the world. The city’s economy flourished, and its identity became closely tied to the production of jute.
However, as with many industries, the jute trade eventually declined. Changes in global markets, competition from synthetic materials, and shifts in industrial practices led to a reduction in demand for jute.
Despite its long history and significant contributions to the local economy, Manhattan Works ceased operations in 1995. This marked the end of an era for not only the mill, but for Dundee’s jute industry.
Today, Manhattan Works has been given a new lease of life. The mill has been transformed into a thriving multi-use property that serves a wide variety of occupants and businesses. This adaptive reuse has allowed the historic building to retain its place in the community, blending the past with the present.
The former mill now hosts a diverse range of activities, such as commercial enterprises, contributing to the revitalisation of the Stobswell area.
Manhattan Works in Pictures
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Stories19/02/2023Verdant Works MuseumServicing an 1801 Steam Engine
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Uncovering the history of one of Verdant Works Museum’s oldest and most iconic spaces. -
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A Brief History of Verdant Works
Look back at the history of our 1833 mill, and reflect on a green future.
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