On the changes in the locality and processes of textile manufacture consequent on the application of steam to their production

Abstract

Circumstances, with the details of which it is not necessary to trouble this society, have led me to pay much attention to the factory system in connexion with the production of textile fabrics, and particularly of cottons and woollens. I propose tonight briefly to investigate one phenomenon of this branch of production; its tendency to locate and confine itself to particular districts, and to inquire how far this is to be attributed to certain natural advantages and facilities possessed by these districts, and how far it may be ascribed to artificial circumstances, which may be regarded as placed more or less within human control. A very brief summary of the growth of the cotton manufacture in South Lancashire, will greatly aid us in approximating to a correct solution of the problem proposed.