Lee Foundry, Darwen
1846 'Over Darwen.— New Foundry. —On Wednesday last, the foundation stone of an extensive foundry to be erected in this advancing town, was laid by Mr. J. Hossack, civil engineer. The new foundry will be built Mr. James Evans, formerly of Preston, founder, in connection with the one now occupied by him. After the ceremony, a number of the friends of Mr. Evans were sumptuously regaled at the house of Mr. Ralph Walsh, the George Inn.'[1]
1853 'To Power-Loom Manufacturers & Others. JAMES EVANS, LEE FOUNDRY, OVER DARWEN, is now prepared, with first-rate patterns, to make Power-Looms on the most modern and approved principles, including John Leach's newly-patented Weft Stopping Motion; or with Messrs. Hornby, Bullough, and Sellers' Patents. All orders executed with promptitude and dispatch. Lee Foundry, Over Darwen.'[2]
1862 Death: 'On the 10th instant, in his 50th year, Mr. James Evans of this town, formerly of Over Darwen, iron founder; much and deservedly respected.'[3]