Spennymoor Ironworks
of Spennymoor, Co. Durham
Also known as Merrington Lane Ironworks
The owner for many years was M. Coulson
'The Merrington Lane Ironworks, near Spennymoor, owned by Messrs. M. Coulson, and Co., will re-commence operations on Monday, having been idle over three years. The manufacture of steel is likely to form the major and most important feature of the work.' [1]
1886 'GOOD NEWS FOR SPENNYMOOR. Messrs Coulson and Co., of the Merrington Lane Ironworks, known as the Little Works, intimated that they would light up last night, working full time until a small foreign order was completed. This is good news to those with large families, who have only been able to secure two three days per week, and will be a means allaying some of the prevailing distress.' [2]
1890 'THE SPENNYMOOR IRONWORKS TO BE RESTARTED. These works, which were sold at the end of last month by the executors of the late Mr M. Coulson, and which have stood idle since then, will recommence operations on Monday under new management. The chief officials— Mr Thompson, Mr A Nutt, Mr R. Bartlett, and the staff generally remain as heretofore.' [3]
1891 M Coulson & Co, Spennymoor, advertising for a 'guide mill roller' [4]
1892 Advertising for Shinglers and Forge Rollers Wanted for gorge containing ten puddling furnaces [5]
1899 'SPENNYMOOR IRONWORKS RESTARTING. We learn that arrangements have just been concluded which will result in the restarting of the Spennymoor Ironworks at an early date. Until four years ago these works were operated by Messrs M. Coulson and Co., Limited. and employed over 150 men and boys. They have now been taken over by Sir Theo Fry and Co., Limited, of Darlington, and as soon as the necessary alterations and repairs are completed the works will be put into operation on the manufacture of iron end steel bars, colliery rails, and a variety of sections for the shipbuilders and engineers with whom the firm do a large trade.' [6]