Disused flax mill off Kilkeel Rd, Hilltown, Newry, Co Down, BT34 2JU

This is a disused flax mill located off the Kilkeel Road near Hilltown, Newry, County Down. It dates to between 1840 and 1859 and is of primary historical interest as an example of a mid-19th century steam-powered flax mill.

The mill is situated on the right bank of the River Bann and is associated with a cornmill immediately to the east. It is aligned parallel with the slope, enabling access to the first floor from ground level on the north side. The roof is pitched and made of corrugated asbestos. The walls are initially of random rubble granite, but have been extensively rebuilt using concrete blockwork, particularly at wallhead level. A later lean-to abuts the middle of the south facade. Various windows and doors are present on the ground floor, while both gables are blank. The north wall has several infilled openings. There is no visible trace of a dam within the yard immediately north of the mill.

The mill first appeared on the 1859 Ordnance Survey 6-inch map. A valuation from around 1861 identifies John Martin as the owner. Its original dimensions were approximately 80 feet by 18 feet, with two storeys. At the time of operation, it contained 14 stocks and three rollers, powered by steam. The valuation revision books note that the mill was “at rest” in 1897. The concrete work suggests rebuilding occurred during the 20th century, likely during the Second World War, possibly with the introduction of a water turbine. The site is of industrial archaeological interest.