North Mill, Belper

Strutt's Mill

Model showing arrangement of 'fireproof' structure

Detail of the above

Basement of the mill, showing the stone columns in the basement which support the iron framework of the mill, via adjustable wedges

Wedges

Part of one of the cast iron beams and column assemblies

The original waterwheel pit, with projected rotating image of wheel

High security door, with lock designed by William Strutt. Made c.1810, in use until 1966

Derwent Valley Visitor Centre, Bridgefoot, Belper, Derbyshire, DE56 1YD.

Built by Jedediah Strutt in 1804, North Mill in Belper was a cotton mill, having an advanced 'fireproof' five storey structure of brick, stone and iron. The Strutt family were friends with Charles Bage, an engineer from Shrewsbury, who provided advice on the design and construction.

The photos show the 'modular' construction system: Cast iron beams, of inverted T section, locate on vertical cast iron columns; brick jack arches springing from the iron beams support the floor; the columns are tied together by wrought iron rods cecured by tapered cotters.

The mill was originally powered by a huge waterwheel.

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