Seapatrick Mills, Lurgan Road, Banbridge, Co. Down, BT63

A mid- to late-nineteenth century mill of little architectural interest, located on Lurgan Road, Banbridge, now demolished and replaced by a housing development. The First Survey card records: ‘Later C.19. None of the existing buildings are earlier than around 1864, the original building was c.1826. Apart from historical background and a little patterned brickwork there is little of interest. This was first power loom factory on Bann and perhaps in Irish linen industry. In 1826 William Hayes’ 3rd son, Frederick William was given a grant by the Linen Trustees for spinning fine yarns by machinery. Firm concentrated on thread making from 1864. Smaller “Bleaching mill” shown on O.S. Map of 1833. Industrial Archaeology of Co. Down E.R.R.Green Date of visit: 9th October 1969’