The Olden Time Series Volume II Part 12

In one of the numbers of the London "Spectator" for 1884 is an interesting account of an attempt to revive the spinning-wheel industry in England, through the kind offices of Mr. Albert Flemming, for the purpose of helping poor women too old or blind to leave their homes for other work. After considerable difficulty, a wheel was discovered among a store of ancient articles; but no one at first knew how to use it.

Spinning was one of the lost arts, apparently. At length, however, an old woman of eighty-four was found who understood the use of the wheel.

She taught Mr. Flemming how to spin. A few more old wheels were found, and some new ones constructed. Then it was some time before a loom could be discovered. Eventually this was accomplished, and the art of weaving taught. The account says that twenty women who were unable otherwise to obtain a living, are now busily at work, happy in being able to provide for their families. They make, it may be added, a good strong, honest linen, specimens of which have been presented to Mr. Ruskin. This account is substantially from the "Living Age," Nov. 1, 1884.

[Ill.u.s.tration]

University Press: John Wilson & Son, Cambridge.