The town of Bridport in Dorset, England, has a long and storied history when it comes to rope and net making. From its early beginnings as a small market town to its rise as a prominent center for these industries, Bridport’s connection to rope and net making has left an indelible mark on its heritage.
Bridport’s association with rope making can be traced back to medieval times. The town’s location near the coast and its access to high-quality fibers such as hemp and flax made it an ideal place for the production of ropes and nets. Bridport’s ropes were renowned for their strength and durability, earning the town a reputation as a leading supplier of maritime equipment.
The industry flourished during the 18th and 19th centuries, fueled by the demand for ropes and nets for the growing British Navy, merchant vessels, and the expanding fishing industry. Bridport’s rope makers developed specialized techniques and craftsmanship, ensuring the production of high-quality ropes that could withstand the rigors of maritime use.
(Bridport) Gundry
One of the key figures in Bridport’s rope making history is Edward Gundry, whose family played a significant role in the industry. In the early 19th century, Edward Gundry established a rope and net making business in Bridport, which would eventually become known as Bridport Gundry.
Under Edward Gundry’s leadership, the company grew rapidly and gained a reputation for producing superior ropes and nets. Bridport Gundry became a trusted supplier to the Royal Navy, providing ropes for the ships that sailed across the globe. The company’s success allowed it to expand its operations and employ a significant number of townspeople, contributing to the local economy and solidifying Bridport’s position as a center for rope making.
Bridport Gundry’s ropes were not only used for maritime purposes but also found applications in other industries. They were used in agriculture for haymaking, in construction for scaffolding, and in transportation for towing and lifting heavy loads. The versatility and reliability of Bridport Gundry’s products made them highly sought after, ensuring the company’s continued success.
The success of the rope and net making industry in Bridport also had a significant impact on the town’s social fabric. The industry provided employment opportunities for many residents, offering a means of livelihood for families and contributing to the local economy. It fostered a sense of community and pride among the townspeople, who recognized the importance of their role in supporting Britain’s maritime endeavors.
As technology advanced and synthetic fibers became more readily available, the demand for traditional hemp and flax ropes declined. Bridport Gundry adapted to these changes, embracing new materials and manufacturing techniques. The company diversified its product range and expanded into other sectors such as industrial textiles, maintaining its position as a leading manufacturer.
Today, while the rope and net making industry in Bridport has evolved and scaled down, the town’s rich heritage is still celebrated. The Bridport Museum showcases the history of rope making and its significance to the town. The annual Bridport Hat Festival pays homage to the industry, with participants wearing hats made entirely from rope. The legacy of Bridport’s rope and net making history can still be seen in the town’s architecture, with some buildings displaying pulley systems and other remnants of the industry’s past. It serves as a reminder of the craftsmanship and skill that went into creating these essential tools for maritime trade.
Bridport’s connection to rope and net making has left an enduring mark on its identity. The industry’s heyday may have passed, but its influence can still be felt in the town’s culture, traditions, and sense of pride. Bridport’s rope and net making history stands as a testament to the ingenuity, skill, and industriousness of its people, highlighting their contribution to the maritime heritage of Dorset