Silloth Docks
on the Solway Firth
1853 First proposals for a dock and railway scheme.[1] The plan was opposed by the Maryport and Carlisle Railway.[2]
1857 After the railway arrived at Silloth, a timber jetty was built allowing vessels to load and unload.
1857 Brotherton and Rigg, Contractors for the Silloth Docks, selling horses as they have erected an engine to do the work.[3]
1859 August 03rd. An enclosed dock (known as the Marshall Dock after William Marshall, M.P.) was opened and used by a regular steamer service to Liverpool. Civil engineer was James Abernethy. See also James Mitchell
1860 Eleventh report from the directors of the Carlisle and Silloth Bay Railway and Dock Co. James Abernethy is Consulting Engineer.[4]
1861 Thirteenth report from the directors of the Carlisle and Silloth Bay Railway and Dock Co. Charles Boyd is engineer. Also report of Port Carlisle Dock and Railway Co.[5]
1885 June. A new, larger dock was opened and built by the North British Railway and Mr. Carswell C.E. is their Chief Engineer. Designed by Meik and Sons. Walter Scott and Co are the contractors. Thomas Middleton managed the contract. [6] Carr's flour mill alongside.
1909 New dock opened connecting with trains from Carlisle five times a day.[7]
1917 The steamer service to Liverpool ended.