Julie Spence reports

 

Just a handful of people oversee plant's final days

 

THE company which has done more than any other to shape the fortunes of Lisburn for over two centuries will close its doors for the last time on Friday.

The machines have already fallen silent for the last time at Barbour Threads as production at Hilden Mill ended after 222 years.

It was an emotional day for the remaining staff as the final spool of thread was produced on Wednesday at the factory that has been a part of the history of Lisburn for over two centuries.

There are few families in Lisburn who have not been touched by Barbour Threads, with many generations working in the factory over the years.

However, this week that momentous history came to an end as the company prepared to - close for the last time.

To mark the momentous occasion the Mill Horn, which has not been used for many years, will sound at 12 noon on Friday as the last shift leaves the factory.

Barbour Threads was first opened by John Barbour in 1784 and moved to its current site in 1823. At one time it employed some 2,000 people. However, today only a handful of people remain to oversee the final days of the Hilden Mill.

Factory Manager Robert McCracken, who has worked at the mill for 37 years, said it was a very emotional day for everyone when the last spool was produced on Wednesday morning.

"It really is the end of an era" he said.

To mark the poignant moment in history, the final King Spools manufactured in Lisburn were presented to Brian Mackey from Lisburn Museum, and will remain as a poignant reminder of Lisburn's manufacturing history.

"I am glad that there is a little bit being left in Lisburn for posterity," said Robert. "There will be something to remind future generations of Barbour Threads and its 222 year history in Lisburn.

"It has always been a family orientated business and generations of families have worked here.

"To have the last spool presented to the museum is very significant," he added. Brian Mackey from Lisburn Museum was delighted to accept the final spool of thread from Barbour Threads.

"Over the years we have acquired a lot of artefacts from Barbours so we will add this to the collection," said Brian.

"It will go on display in the museum, stating that it was the last spool to be produced in Lisburn after 222 years."

As work ends at Barbour Threads and a new era of development begins with plans for new homes which will see 500 new residents in the next 10 years.

Robert spoke for many when he said: "Barbour's history is Lisburn's history."