W.& J. Knox
MESSRS. W. & J. KNOX, Linen Thread Works and Fishing Net Manufactory, Kilbirnie, Ayrshire.
This old and distinguished firm control one of the finest industrial establishments in Scotland, or, indeed, in any part of Her Majestys wide dominions. Where-ever civilization has penetrated, the Messrs. Knoxs linen threads are known, while in fishing circles, both at home and abroad, their fishing nets are equally celebrated. The operations of this eminent firm have extended over the space of a century, during which long period their career has been marked by continuous advancement and success. To write their history fully would be to write the history of the last age of the spinning industry and to note the successful application of a hundred improved appliances which mechanical ingenuity has, from time to time, placed at its disposal and at the service of this firm.
In their case, as in others, newer and more efficient machinery once and again superseded the older and less effective, till now the visitor to the Messrs. Knoxs works may view in their splendid plant the present consummation of inventive skill as applied to linen thread manufacture. The works form one of the largest and finest aggregation of great factories we have seen, the towering blocks rising to three, four, or five storeys on both sides of the long central yard. Flanking, or rather surrounding, these are a multitude of smaller buildings and an immense range of glass-roofed sheds on one side ; the whole covering a space of fifteen acres and presenting the appearance of a town dedicated to the genius of industry, over which the three lofty and stately chimney stacks stand as sentinels. Both in linen threads of all kinds and for every purpose and in nets for herring, mackerel, and other fishing, the firm are facile princeps. The limits of our space forbid a description of the several processes or of the wonderful mechanical equipment of the various departments of the works. No expense or trouble is avoided in obtaining the best of everything, from the raw material of the plan itself to the most perfect flyer or bobbin used in its manipulation.
No fewer than 1,400 hands are constantly employed ; and considering that for the most part their work consists in attending to machinery whose action is almost automatic, some idea of the enormous turn-out may be gained. It is no less worthy of note that everything has been done to procure the most favourable sanitary and hygienic conditions throughout all departments of the works, and especially in the spinning rooms. Near the entrance to the works, located in a suitable building, are the public and private offices and counting house, where the principals, aided by a large staff, control the world-wide business of the firm.
The works have been in the possession of the Knox family since their inauguration by the grandfather of the present proprietors, Mr. R. W. Knox, Mr. James Knox, and Mr. Bryce M. Knox. These gentlemen occupy the highest position in the district, are Justices of the Peace, and popular and influential with all classes. Mr. R. W. Knox has the honour of presiding as Chairman over the deliberations of the County Council of the district, a position which his wide experience, business accomplishments, and unfailing courtesy and tact well qualify him to fill.
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