Lisbellaw Mill remembered at Enniskillen Castle Museums
27th October 2023
The story of the well renowned Lisbellaw Mill established by Henderson and Eadie Ltd has been brought to life at Enniskillen Castle Museums through an exhibition.
The exhibition was recently opened by the Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Thomas O’Reilly, and guests at the opening night included Mr Roland Eadie OBE, a great grandson of Co-Founder Mr John Eadie; and Mrs Mandy Bryson, a great great-granddaughter of Co-Founder Mr John Henderson.
The exhibition shows how the Mill, which was established in 1858, transformed Lisbellaw creating much needed employment and facilities. It also portrays the achievements of the business including the installation of its own private phone service in 1902; the use of electricity from 1904; and the establishment of a warehouse at 22 Church Street, Enniskillen in 1920 to name a few.
The Mill was renowned for its exclusive tweed design and vibrant colours, quality products, strong work ethic by its employees and up to date equipment. The exhibition also highlights how the tweed was sent to the top fashion in Paris at that time and that a bespoke tweed was designed for the 5th Duke of Westminster.
Speaking at the exhibition launch, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Thomas O’Reilly, said:
“I am delighted that Enniskillen Castle Museums is hosting this exhibition to showcase the Henderson and Eadie Ltd history, products, developments and innovations in the woollen industry in Fermanagh.
Henderson and Eadie Ltd is an excellent example of the success that a local company in a rural area can achieve and the significant impact it can make to the local economy.
I commend everyone involved in putting together this exhibition of memories and memorabilia so everyone can learn about the company and share in its history and success.”
To coincide with the exhibition, Mr Roland Eadie OBE, also recently launched The Lisbellaw Woollen Mill book, supported by the Lough Erne Landscape Partnership through funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The exhibition is on display in Enniskillen Castle Museums until the New Year. For more information, visit www.enniskillencastle.co.uk or contact 028 6632 5000.