Lancashire was once the world's textile capital and the cotton industry was a major part of the UK economy. King Cotton was a term coined to capture the strength of the industry in the early part of the 20th century.

Spinning tended to be concentrated in West Lancashire (Manchester, Oldham) whilst weaving was predominant in East Lancashire (Blackburn, Burnley, Nelson). At its peak in 1913 there were over 100 weaving mills in Blackburn. 

This web site explores two Blackburn mills, Rockcliffe and Havelock. It focuses on the story of the Holden family who established and ran these two mills. It features the book, written by Tom Holden and edited by his son Richard Holden and which provides a remarkable insight into the challenges faced by weaving industrialists in Blackburn and similar towns. 

The web site extends the family story with articles on related issues and questions, including the 'more looms' dispute and temperance.