History of Linen Production

Talks & Demos
Written By Digital Officer

As part of the Linen Biennale of Northern Ireland, Belfast Print Workshop had the honor of hosting a distinguished guest speaker, Gerard Muldoon, an accomplished Industrial Archaeologist. Through two captivating talks, Gerard delved into the captivating history of linen production, taking us on a journey from its ancient origins to its meteoric rise in the heart of Belfast.

Picture this: by the time August arrives, tall and sturdy stems of flax have sprung up, reaching waist-high and beyond. A hundred days have elapsed since the seeds were sown by the men of the household. From these seeds emerged delicate blue flowers that, under the nurturing hands of the womenfolk, have now transformed into a bountiful harvest of flax – the very lifeblood of the linen industry.

 
 

The lineage of linen's production and its global usage spans millennia and countries, stretching from the Middle East to the verdant landscapes of Ireland. Throughout this journey, evidence suggests an enduring connection between this fabric and concepts of kingship and priesthood. Even as the Brehon Laws of the 7th and 8th centuries directed all farmers to cultivate flax, written records from the 11th century offer a glimpse into the cultivation of flax for the creation of locally produced clothing. It was a tradition deeply woven into the cultural fabric.

In the 16th century, a significant shift occurred as legislation aimed to diminish the aristocratic exclusivity of Irish linen garments. However, it was the tumultuous political landscape of the late 17th century that catapulted the Irish Linen industry onto the world stage. Its ascent to becoming a global leader in producing high-quality linen was nothing short of meteoric. This premium product, with its roots in Ireland, achieved worldwide acclaim.

The echoes of this industrial development resonated in every aspect of life. While economic, commercial, and demographic changes were anticipated, the cultural, social, agricultural, and architectural shifts might have been less evident. Amidst these changes thrived a rich lexicon of trade jargon, intriguing and often curious in its nature.

Collectively, these transformations elevated the north-east of the island, especially Belfast, to unparalleled economic prosperity. The city proudly earned the moniker "Linenopolis," a title it held until the early 20th century.

Gerard Muldoon presented an intriguing compilation of extracts from the vast trove of printed archive materials. These extracts painted a vivid picture of various facets of the linen industry, offering a glimpse into its multifaceted history. He walked us through the production line of one of the longest-standing linen production companies. Operating within the heart of the former "Linen District" in central Belfast, this company's history echoed the city's own journey through time.

Gerard Muldoon's talks weren't just about the evolution of an industry; they were windows into the past, revealing how linen intertwined with the very essence of society and culture. Belfast Print Workshop was honoured to be part of the Linen Biennale, showcasing the threads of history that have shaped our world.

 
 

If you're passionate about art, sustainable practices, and the cultural significance of flax, don't miss the chance to participate in the upcoming Linen Biennale workshops and presentations.

Supported by the National Lottery through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland

 
 
Digital Officer https://bpw.org.uk
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